Considering Domke bags (for now, F2 and F4)

[pallo]

My current main bag is a Billingham Hadley Large that I’ve been using for over 10 years now. I’m still happy with its quality and size, but don’t always find the messenger-style bag convenient when switching lenses etc.

The two main reasons why I’m looking at the Domke F2 and F4 to complement the Billingham are: (1) a classic bag rather than a messenger bag and (2) a less rigid bag that “hugs” the hip/back.

For what do I need ? Basically, three situations:

Fuji xt4 with a few lenses (including a 2.8 standard zoom)

Leica M2 with two lenses, film and a few non-photography items

Leica M2 with two lenses, film and a rolleicord (and, again, film)

Two questions

Would the F4 be suffiently large?
What would be more modern alternatives that are not too rigid as well?

 

[abruzzi]

I use the F2 for 4x5 cameras, and I suspect it is going to be a bit large for what you’re planning to put in it. I’d definitely look at the size down.

I have a very beat up F-4 that came with a Bronica EC-TL I bought. I can hold the camera with mounted lens and film back, three additional lenses, and teleconverter, all in the main compartment (however, I’m not afraid to stack lenses in the same compartment—the lower one face down and the upper one face up. That way they sit on each other with only the plastic rear caps touching.) The two side pockets each hold an additional film back, and the front pocket holds a small container with 5 rolls of 120 film and a handheld meter.

I suspect it’s plenty large enough for what you want, but the shape of the available space and dividers is equally important.

I do love Domke bags because they don’t overdo the padding, and packing is very flexible.

 

[cowanw]

I would choose an F2. The F4 is a 35mm single camera bag for me. But I do not stack things.

 

[Chuck1]

The J series are nylon, I like them better than the F

 

[abruzzi]

There is also a waxed cotton version of the F in most models. Thats what most of my Domke bags are.