I can always use a new bag, and since this one was on sale, I picked it up.I can pack an SLR film or digital body, a 17 to 40 zoom, 85/1.8, 200/2.8 and flash,with room for filters, cords,lots of film etc. and a soft canvas bag for day excurisions when traveling. This the first LowePro product I have purchased, and I find this bag to be good value for the money.
Some reviewers have complained about the weight, don't pack so much stuff.
Strengths:
Build quality,
expandability, there are many add on bits and pieces if you need them.
all weather cover is included in its own pocket
quick access through the top cover
two soft pouches and two compartment dividers included
the entire inside can be removed to clean etc. or use the bag for other things
I've only owned three bags before the 400, but I've tried dozens in the past few years, and this is my favorite. It's a perfect size for my gear. If I find myself needing more room, I've either packed too much or should have used a backpack instead.
The 400 can carry my D60 body, 16-35/2.8, 50/1.4, 70-200/4, 100/2.8 macro, and all of the hoods. I also carry a 550EX flash (not a small unit), filter/memory wallet, 3 extension tubes, and a pile of caps, cords, remotes, and other trinkets.
I sometimes replace the 70-200/4 with an f/2.8 or 300/4 with no trouble.
If I reverse the hood, my 70-200 can stay on the camera in the "shooter position," but it does make the bag bulge a little so I prefer not to.
My Tamrac 619 was very comparable in size and capacity but not nearly as convenient to work out of.
Strengths:
Quality
Easy access
Capacity
"Raincoat"
Weaknesses:
The 400 doesn't come with enough dividers. Fortunately the folks at Lowepro will be more than happy to sell you more. :)
Similar Products Used:
Tamrac 617 Super Pro
Lowepro Nova 4
Customer Service:
I've only used them to order more dividers. They seemed very friendly and knowledgeable.
For my needs this is a great bag. I can pack all of my equipement in this bag, 2 bodies, 4 lenses (including a telephoto), a flash, film and a filters. I carried it around Spain for 3 weeks last summer and it handled perfectly. I''''''''ll admit it''''''''s heavy but I also could of packed it more sensibly before leaving the room each morning.
All in all this a good bag from a renown manufacturer, for the price, you can''''''''t go wrong.
Strengths:
Solid Build
Metal O-rings for Sholder strap
Top access without opening the bag
All weather
Weaknesses:
Heavy when fully loaded and it''''''''s bulky when your trying to walk around without getting noticed
Rating Reviewed by: Ong Su Hong(Unregistered User)
(Intermediate)
Review Date August 16, 2001
Overall Rating 4 of 5
Value Rating 3 of 5
Review 4 of 9
Price Paid:
$85.00
from Cathay Photo Singapore
Summary:
A nice looking bag but if full space is loaded, it can be too big and heavy as a shoulder bag. If use with the waist belt, it won't be as convenient as what a shoulder bag usually provides. Nevertheless, the design is good with lotsa innovation and thoughts.
Strengths:
- Doesn't look like a camera bag initially. But the load and build will eventually give away. - Many gadget add-ons like the AW cover. - D rings are all metals, enough for good amount of weight.
Weaknesses:
- Too big to travel in alleys and public transports. - Too heavy to act as just a shoulder bag, should purchase the waist belt too
Similar Products Used:
Lowepro Orion AW Lowepro Stealth Lowepro Mini Trekker Lowepro Omni Trekker
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