MF Backpack

[RichardJack]

I am looking for suggestions for the smallest and most compact (and affordable) backpack to carry my Bronica GS-1, 4-5 lenses, 2 prisms, 2 backs, and small items. I am partial to Tamrak and Lowepro but will consider others. If possible please provide me with a model number or name, I will be hunting for a used one on EBay. The longest lens will be a 250mm but they are all fat (about 80-95mm). Give me a few models and I'll do the reasearh from there. If it's going to cost over $120 used it's not for me.
Thank you in advance,
Rick

 

[locutus]

I just bought a Lowepro Protactic 450, and it fits my 5x4, 3 lenses, 6 holders, meter etc perfectly with a tripod strapped to the side.

I would say, recommended.

 

[Trail Images]

You might check out this very recent thread also.........

(there was a url link here which no longer exists)

 

[NortheastPhotographic]

I have a Tamrac bag that I bought within the last 6 months that's great. It's the slim version too which I find perfect. I've carried a Rolleiflex + F6 kit, as well as a Pentax 6x7 + Rolleiflex kit, and it's been a real champ.

I spent some time using 'fashion' centric bags from brands like Filson and I would say after that journey, avoid. Just stick with the established bag brands.

 

[NJH]

Lowepro Pro Tactic 450AW. Fantastic bit of kit that allows access from either side as well as through the back so you don't have to take it off a lot of the time. Here is a decent review:
https://fstoppers.com/originals/low...ial-become-best-photo-backpack-ill-ever-37352

Like the reviewer I have used mine as airline carry on with a Bronica SQ kit and lenses just getting under that airlines 7kg limit. It fits fine under airline seats and bus/coach seats as well. The only thing I haven't done yet is lash on a tripod but as it designed for that purpose with the military style webbing loops and attachment points I am hopeful it will work out great.

 

[RichardJack]

Thanks for your suggestions.

 

[brent8927]

I really like my F-Stop Loka, but unfortunately affordable is not a word that belongs alongside F-Stop backpacks...

While the bag was expensive (as was my Hadley Pro), my thought was if I'm going to be using this bag for x years/decades (the Hadley is 10 years old, F-Stop I bought used 3 years ago) and taking it around town all the time, hiking on every trip, then I don't mind paying more if it get me out shooting in comfort more.

If you have a chance, go to a camera store and try on these bags, and see what works well for your style. You may decide you want a pack you can access without putting the bag down (such as the Lowepro example) or you may decide you don't care. You also might want something with a better suspension given the weight of MF gear. My old Lowepro Rover AWII was still able to fit my Hasselblad along with the extra lenses I bought (I previously had a small kit--just an 80mm and a spare back), but it wasn't all that convenient, and it wasn't comfortable with all that weight on just my shoulders, which is why I bought the F-Stop.