RZ67 carry case suggestions

[bluedog]

I'm leaning towards a LowePro or similar backpack to carry around my RZ67. I have 2 120 backs and 1 polaroid back but no extra lenses as yet. Although a hard case will offer maximum protection I think it will be a bit too bulky and heavy which will limit how far I can roam with it. Any comments on an appropriate backpack or other?
Thanks
Greg

 

[Mick Fagan]

I have the original LowePro Photo Trekker backpack, which was made in Ireland, it is about 18 years old.

I at one time ran an RB with three lenses, two backs, four filters (glass), and twenty rolls of film.

It is probably the best way to carry stuff, but there is a downside if you're traversing muddy paddocks. You have to put the backpack on the ground to open and remove stuff, carry a ground sheet that is handy.

I also at another time, used Nikon F3 bodies (2) and a range of lenses from 18mm through to 600mm. Basically the weight of that lot stretched the capabilities of the backpack and the stitching started to rip and seams were opening. I still have it and it needs repair, but it was and is great.

Ensure you have a good waist belt section whatever type of back pack carrier, otherwise your back may end up in trouble.

Mick.

 

[Travis Nunn]

I have an RB67 with a metered prism, 3 lenses, 2 film backs and various other accessories. I carry everything in a backpack and some cases I got from Photobackpacker (one of APUG's sponsors). It packs/unpacks surprisingly quickly and is great on hikes.

 

[evilhomer78]

I have an RB67 with a metered prism, 3 lenses, 2 film backs and various other accessories. I carry everything in a backpack and some cases I got from Photobackpacker (one of APUG's sponsors). It packs/unpacks surprisingly quickly and is great on hikes.

I have been looking for a backback also for my Bronica Sq-a system. I've been looking at the photobackpacker packs but don't know what cases to get. What cases are you using for your RB67?

 

[Jerry Thirsty]

I've been carrying a RZ67 with four lenses, three backs, film, filters, etc. in a Tenba Shootout backpack (medium). The stock Tenba dividers are for dividing the interior into three columns; I used one of the Tenba dividers to divide it down the middle and then made longer cross shelves from a Kata Modi-verse kit. The waist belt and shoulder straps are pretty good. I also got a couple of the Tenba belt-mount lens/bottle caddies, thinking that when I got to a location I would transfer a couple of lenses out of the bag to the belt, so I wouldn't need to open the bag so much; the RZ lenses do fit in the caddies but they are tight so it's a pain to wiggle them in and out. Tenba also has a medium format lens pouch, but it doesn't appear to be designed to attach to the pack belt like the lens caddies (although you could probably rig something up that would work).

 

[Travis Nunn]

I have been looking for a backback also for my Bronica Sq-a system. I've been looking at the photobackpacker packs but don't know what cases to get. What cases are you using for your RB67?

I think the best thing to do would be to contact Bruce. I met him at the APUG conference in Toronto a couple of years ago and he was very helpful.

However, since you asked , here is how I have my stuff packed (keep in mind he's added lots of stuff since I bought my gear)...
I have an 8x10 case with dividers that hold the body, metered prism, lens hoods, filters, two lenses and an extra film back. The lenses are a 65mm and 90mm (both of which are fairly short) and they are in a L4044 cases. That case slips into the backpack which is a Kelty Redwing (can't remember the model). Additionally, I have a 180mm lens which is in a LT6044 case and I have a second LT6044 case that I got for something else that I don't have anymore so I use that to keep my exposed film. I think you'd be surprised to see how quickly I can unpack and re-pack everything.

I don't know how big the Bronica lenses are compared to the RB's lenses so like I said, it'd be best to get in touch with Bruce.

 

[PVia]

I use a small Tamrac Expedition 4 backpack to carry my RZ Pro II, 110mm lens (attached), Sekonic meter, extra film back and more space for film, filters, gadgets, etc...

Fits under an airline seat and is perfect for those who use a one lens kit. Highly recommended!

 

[bluedog]

Thanks for all of your input. I will check out the Tamrac and photo trekker. At the moment I don't have any extra lenses (but do have 3 backs) so I may go with a smaller unit to start with.
Greg