8x10 backpack question

I have been looking in the archives for 8x10 bag options. What I am using pretty much sucks. it is a messenger bag, and the camera is too big for it.

Here are my needs:

Hold an 8x10 2D
six holders
filters
meter
dark cloth
Hopefully be able to attach the tripod to it.

People seem to like their Kelty Redwing 3100s and I looked at them, but I don't see how people pack the stuff in them. Is there an 8x10 dedicated photo back pack available out there? Because of shoulder issues the over the shoulder bags are completely out.

I am surveying my options.

Mark,

I have pretty much the same set up (sans filters) and am glad you posted this question.

Alan.

LowePro Trekker AW. You can also use a surplus ALICE (the large one, about $60 and it will hold more than any sane person should carry!)) but you'll have to make your own padding. If you want an over the shoulder rig, the California Innovations cooler that comes velcroed to a plastc handcart works too (but I haven't been able to lash a tripod to it---use a rifle sling instead!)

I use the F64 I think it is the BPX the largest of the F64 line. I love it. I carry an Ebony 8x10 4 lenses, first aid, dark cloth, water, meter, filters etc. The only shortcoming is that I can only fit 3 holders in the bag with the Ebony. If I am going on a longer hike, I carry a Zone VI 8x10 film holder bag also. I think Kevin Saitta is making film holder bags also.

Good luck.

I use a non-photo internal frame pack made by MEI. Don't know if they are still around. It is a travel pack rather than a strickly backpacking set-up. The whole pack zips open from the front. It has a detachable daypack that zippers onto the front panel -- the daypack holds five (6 in a pinch) 8x10 holders and has a zippered pocket that holds all the little stuff (cable releases, lens cleaner, note book, etc).

I used closed cell foam to create a lower compartment to hold the Zone VI 8x10, and above that compartment I have a Fuji W 300mm, RD Artar 19" (barrel), Wollinsak 210mm (barrel) and a 159mm. Also stored there is my Pentax Digital Spot meter and darkcloth. If I am walking a long way I also put my Ries tripod head in there to reduce the weight in my hand. With the head in there it is full up.

The pack also has two long side pockets -- waterbottles and snacks can go in them -- and those pockets are tucked away behind zippers if they are not needed. Because it is a travel pack, there is a panal that zips over all the shoulder and hip straps and hides them, and it has a heavy-duty handle to carry it in one hand. It is nice to be able to get all the straps zipped away for plane travel and for in the car -- so they don't get caught on anything.

Comfortable to carry on the back and has a sternum strap. I have been thinking about replacing the hip belt buckles -- they tend to slip a little, but after the many years I have had it I have never gotten around to it, so it must not be too bad. I occasionally have lower back problems, but the hip belt actually supports my lower back and makes it easier to walk around...I just have to be careful taking the pack on and off.

I also can slip in 2 to 3 more film holders inside the pack between the camera and the front panel. It is a good size pack. I am 6'3" and it fits well...though I do have it adjusted to the max length.

Vaughn

I've used the f64 8x10 pack with two Deardorffs (not at the same time : - )) and it works well. I had three lenses, camera, light meter, loupe, all the usual stuff. However, I could only get three holders in it and I don't think you could attach the tripod to it. I'm not sure about using it with the 2D if you have the rear extension rail. I'm not sure where the rail would go. But if you don't have the rail it should work fine and maybe there's a way of fitting the rail into it. The problem is that the f64 isn't all that deep and if you tried to just lay the rail on top of the camera or lay it on its side you might not be able to zip the main pocket closed (I had a 2D and used the LowePro 4x5 pack with the accessory bag that attaches to the pack).

I own the biggest LowePro. It certainly does the job, but when it's carrying 45 pounds of gear it is NOT the most comfortable pack I've ever worn. After less than two miles I am ready to take it off. It can certainly hold an awful lot: Kodak Master View 8x10, 240 and 360 Caltars in Copal 3, 165 Super Angulon, half dozen holders, meters, with room to spare, and sensible place for the tripod. But again, when fully loaded, it's a pain. I am contemplating two handcases, one for the camera, another for the lenses, meters. Then wear the tripod and holders on my back. No hands free for serious climbing, but looking at my portfolio, I realized I never really did that anyway.
Neal

I use a waypoint 80 made by osprey - I fitted it with an old liner from a lightware medium format case that I had laying around from the days when I used to shoot weddings. I can carry my 8x10 dorf/4 lenses/6 holders/light meter and a few filters and adapter rings. It has a detacheable day pack and it converts from a backpack to a handle carry bag like a suitcase - and it's got a great suspension system and handles the 45lb load great.
you can see the pack here
http://www.ospreypacks.com/Packs/WaypointSeries/

Thanks for the ideas. I have some net searching to do.

Climbabout-I have the osprey model before the Waypoint. It is one of our main pieces of luggage. The wife is going to kick my butt, but I think I will be seeing how easy it will be to convert it. Every year osprey has a closeout and returned item sale out of their warehouse. It will be worth a look when the sale comes about.

Here is one which is posted on another site. I am not affiliated with this Seller, although I have purchased items from Ray on ebay and have never been disappointed. I have a similar pack and it will work fine for an 8x10 set up. http://www.largeformatphotography.info/forum/showthread.php?t=22933
Jon

I have had good luck getting very unusual packs from Jandd http://www.jandd.com/ If they do not have what you want, I believe that they will make it for you.

Steve

Look up the sun dog brand "art wolf" backpack on ebay or google. I got mine brand new for $60. they sold for $350 new. it's huge, great suspension and adjustable harness. holds plenty

Photobackpacker packs

I purchased a modified Kelty backpack from Photobackpacker two months ago. For several years I have used an f.64 pack. It has been okay but the suspension system could be a lot better. The new pack is a thing of wonder. It is lighter than the f.64 and very comfortable. Instead of the entire pack being padded only the gear that needs padding gets it. I talked to Bruce, the fellow who designed it, and he put together the perfect setup for my gear. The link is:

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