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: which sling backpack?

J____
10-09-2009, 04:35 PM
which would you guys pick,

lowepro 200 or the kata 3n1-20

the lowepor has a more discrete look while the kata offeres left or right sling and dual backpack straps. Kata costs slightly more. anyone have experience with them?
Mananetwork
10-09-2009, 05:54 PM
I tried both. Lowepro is nice, but it's so so quality wise. Kata inserts are weak and it's an absolute mess inside! Lowepro is the better of the two, but I'd pick up the Tenba Shootout Sling

http://www.mananetwork.net/blog/2008/12/tenba-shootout-sling-bag-review/

It's hard to find the bag locally as I tried calling every store in BC. You can find them on the Vistek site, but you can drop by and take a look before deciding on the purchase!
J____
10-10-2009, 12:52 AM
hey that looks pretty good quality wise even from the photos. the zippers are even weather sealed. how you finding just having the 1 sling wihtout the backpack option? What do you mean kata's inserts are weak, like their not rigid enough to hold the camera? Only reason i like the kata are the option of the extra strap, it gives a good option of relief after long journeys, or in the case i'll ever be running away from something haha.
Senna4ever
10-10-2009, 08:46 AM
The only thing I wish the KATA had was a sternum strap. In backpack mode, the straps can move outwards with some people, and that may be uncomfortable.
J____
10-10-2009, 09:02 AM
ya the lowepro's sternum strap looks like it'll actually compensate for the backpack strap. i guess i'll have to go try all of these on before deciding.
Nismo200SX
10-10-2009, 08:34 PM
the new Lowepro Classified Sling looks nice too http://www.lowepro.com/classifiedsling

about the same price as the Tenba which btw looks like an awesome bag too.
skyxx
10-10-2009, 09:31 PM
^ Damn, I should sell my 200AW for this new Classifed Sling.
Matsuda
10-10-2009, 11:20 PM
I did a mini review of the Kata sling bag earlier this year. http://www.djmatsuda.com/blog/archives/160. I liked the build quality of the Kata much more then the lowepro but the lowepro was way easier to access the camera. I've gotten rid of the Kata a few months ago and just got a Crumpler bag. That Classified Sling looks a lot nicer then the AW's
Nismo200SX
10-11-2009, 01:58 AM
I looked at this thread because I am still on the fence on what bag to buy, that and I currently can't afford to buy a bag right now. I've always been considering the Kata 3n1 20 but have been looking at all the options out there and then this new Lowepro came along and it looks really nice. Hopefully broadway has it in stock already so I can check it out at aberdeen.
J____
10-11-2009, 04:22 AM
damn im loving the look of the kata more and more....
like senna said, too bad it doesnt have the waist strap....

where did you get one locally matsuda?
the new classified sling looks like its got some promising features. but the look is kinda gay haha. so square and wide, guess its good for a laptop.
Matsuda
10-11-2009, 07:58 AM
I bought mine at Photoexpert in Surrey, I had the smallest one. The 3in1-10. Their prices were pretty good compared to other places. Lens and Shutter carries Kata too but their prices are more expensive then photoexpert. I found a slingbag to be a pain in the ass after awhile. It was easier to access my camera and lens with an over the shoulder bag where i could just flip the flap over and grab my gear quickly.
Senna4ever
10-11-2009, 09:37 AM
damn im loving the look of the kata more and more....
like senna said, too bad it doesnt have the waist strap....

The KATA has a waist strap, it doesn't have a sternum strap.
J____
10-11-2009, 03:13 PM
The KATA has a waist strap, it doesn't have a sternum strap.

ahhh i miss understood. I didnt see a waist strap in the photos like the lowepro has so i thought thats what you said. Well i can always DIY sew one on haha.
[HuCk DuCk]
10-12-2009, 12:02 AM
i've got a barely used 200aw collecting dust in my closet. can buy it if you want
J____
10-12-2009, 11:59 AM
nice! i think im goin to check out kata bags first, if i decide to go lowepro, i'll pick urs up!
ddr
10-12-2009, 09:44 PM
the new classified sling looks nice, but with the ability to carry a tripod and laptop wouldn't that hurt your shoulder like crazy?

I used to carry my kata in sling mode all the time, but more and more i have it setup like a backup; another feature that won me over

now i'm considering a very small sling like the case logic slr sling (http://www.caselogic.com/slr_sling/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=138051) and a big huge backpack for traveling like the booq python blur (http://www.booqbags.com/All-Products/Python/Python-blur)
Senna4ever
10-12-2009, 10:35 PM
Not a sling, but the new Think Tank TakeOff looks promising.

http://www.thinktankphoto.com/products/airport-takeoff-roller-camera-bag.aspx
J____
10-13-2009, 01:14 AM
that think tank does look great. but 5+ lbs? holy crap thats alot. im assuming thats without gear?
Mananetwork
10-13-2009, 09:45 AM
The new Lowepro Classified sling looks pretty sweet!
davidhtam
10-17-2009, 07:15 AM
i've also got a 200aw i've been thinking of selling if someone else wants one for $60. I need something with more room!
Senna4ever
10-17-2009, 08:00 AM
Kata is coming out with a 3 N 1 bag that now has a separate laptop compartment within a week. They will also feature improved zippers.
J____
10-17-2009, 01:39 PM
ncie
but i think a laptop + gear is a bit too much for a sling bag.. but then again you'l lhave the backpack option
Senna4ever
10-18-2009, 12:28 AM
ncie
but i think a laptop + gear is a bit too much for a sling bag.. but then again you'l lhave the backpack option

I've had customers buy a Kata 3N1 because it didn't have a laptop compartment, and I've also lost a sale due to the same reason. This way they cover their bases. :)
ddr
10-18-2009, 04:33 PM
aarrggh the 3n1-33 looks weird....
i was already thinking about a 3n1-30 if i can sell my 3n1-20

maybe it's just the pictures on kata's website
Senna4ever
10-18-2009, 04:34 PM
The 33 looks no different than the 30. It just has the extra laptop compartment.
RCubed
10-18-2009, 05:24 PM
I've had customers buy a Kata 3N1 because it didn't have a laptop compartment, and I've also lost a sale due to the same reason. This way they cover their bases. :)
May I ask where you work? :)
Mananetwork
10-18-2009, 05:27 PM
I'm thinking about picking up the classified sling now w/ laptop pocket for my trip in Nov
J____
10-19-2009, 03:48 AM
aarrggh the 3n1-33 looks weird....
i was already thinking about a 3n1-30 if i can sell my 3n1-20

maybe it's just the pictures on kata's website

i'll buy ur kata 3n1-20 if its in mint shape + good price



May I ask where you work? :)

he works at beau photo. good place.



I'm thinking about picking up the classified sling now w/ laptop pocket for my trip in Nov

i wouldnt really enjoy carrying a laptop in a sling bag unless you have dual straps. Laptop + camera gear on 1 shoulder will piss you off after a days walkin around. Im only getting the smaller 20's bag for day trips. For full international/travel trips i'd stull use a full size pack. But then again, you can always take out the laptop and leave it at the hotel, why buy 2 bags.



BTW off topic, Jason does vrxstudios get all their gear from you guys? my manager ema said shes been goin to beau for a long time.
Mashimaro
10-19-2009, 08:11 AM
I initially purchased a Lowepro Sling bag (100 or 200 model, can't remember), but was not impressed. i ended up pulling out 2 of the zipper ropes under normal use. and i mean normal as in i was taking out my camera at a wedding reception and they just popped out of the zipper head.

brought it back to Future Shop and ended up buying a Crumpler bag instead. Much happier with the Crumpler now :)
Mananetwork
10-19-2009, 09:37 AM
i wouldnt really enjoy carrying a laptop in a sling bag unless you have dual straps. Laptop + camera gear on 1 shoulder will piss you off after a days walkin around. Im only getting the smaller 20's bag for day trips. For full international/travel trips i'd stull use a full size pack. But then again, you can always take out the laptop and leave it at the hotel, why buy 2 bags.


When I traveled through Asia I didn't have the luxury of leaving my stuff as I never stayed in one place for more then just that night. In India, I'll have a home base, but I'll be traveling practically the same way. Backpacks are annoying because it always takes so long to get equipment out, by then I've missed the shot or I'm to lazy to even take off the backpack.
J____
10-19-2009, 12:35 PM
I initially purchased a Lowepro Sling bag (100 or 200 model, can't remember), but was not impressed. i ended up pulling out 2 of the zipper ropes under normal use. and i mean normal as in i was taking out my camera at a wedding reception and they just popped out of the zipper head.

brought it back to Future Shop and ended up buying a Crumpler bag instead. Much happier with the Crumpler now :)

do crumblers have sling packs? or just the purse type


When I traveled through Asia I didn't have the luxury of leaving my stuff as I never stayed in one place for more then just that night. In India, I'll have a home base, but I'll be traveling practically the same way. Backpacks are annoying because it always takes so long to get equipment out, by then I've missed the shot or I'm to lazy to even take off the backpack.


ha, i knw wat u mean by packbacks. Did you find slinging on 1 shoulder all day to be tiring? especially with the tenba's and lowpros you cant alternate shoulders. Fuk r u goin on another vacation?
Mananetwork
10-27-2009, 09:02 AM
ha, i knw wat u mean by packbacks. Did you find slinging on 1 shoulder all day to be tiring? especially with the tenba's and lowpros you cant alternate shoulders. Fuk r u goin on another vacation?

I can always throw the sling onto the other shoulder. It defeats the purpose of a sling, but it takes the stress off my left side for a couple minutes. I didn't find it a hassle when traveling

Yes I'm going on another vacation :D
T minus 21 days!

BTW, Tried the new Lowepro Classified Sling at Lens and Shutters two days ago. The design's kinda boring and for $160 for a oversized bag like the 220AW, it's not worth it. 180AW a little better, but only holds 13" laptops
J____
10-27-2009, 01:10 PM
i thought teh design of the tenba wouldnt allow it to be slung on the left shoulder?

Fuk, EA must pay well lol, either that or ur bicycling's paid off! Just dont drink the water in india. even bottled water off street vendors is sketchy.
Mananetwork
10-27-2009, 01:38 PM
i thought teh design of the tenba wouldnt allow it to be slung on the left shoulder?

Fuk, EA must pay well lol, either that or ur bicycling's paid off! Just dont drink the water in india. even bottled water off street vendors is sketchy.

EA pays ok. The extra money is coming from all the photo gigs I've picked up this year. Combine that will diligent spending and anything's possible :D
As a matter of fact, my roomate has been unemployed since he moved in a year and a half ago and he's still paying his bills and traveling more then me! I don't get it!

Did you get your kata bag?
Matsuda
10-27-2009, 05:39 PM
EA pays ok. The extra money is coming from all the photo gigs I've picked up this year. Combine that will diligent spending and anything's possible :D
As a matter of fact, my roomate has been unemployed since he moved in a year and a half ago and he's still paying his bills and traveling more then me! I don't get it!

Did you get your kata bag?

your roommate is a dealer! and the reason why you have money for travel is cause you haven't bought new underpants since high school! ok i made all of that up.
Senna4ever
10-27-2009, 09:01 PM
your roommate is a dealer! and the reason why you have money for travel is cause you haven't bought new underpants since high school! ok i made all of that up.

I think that part about the underpants is true though.... :eek:
Mananetwork
10-28-2009, 12:46 AM
What scares me is some of you know a little bit to much about me :squint:
MikesJo
10-28-2009, 03:28 AM
The sling with laptop compartment is going to be really bearing on one of your shoulders. If you're going to carry that much equipment I'd really recommend a bag with both shoulder straps to even the weight. I'm using the compu daypack from lowepro and I can't stand carrying camera, plus lenses and laptop around for a full day. The laptop usually stays at the hotel.

I just got back from Tokyo and HK. During my HK portion I retired the DSLR and just went with my P&S canon, lol. Needless to say, I had a lot more interesting Tokyo photos than I did HK... Oh well, that leg of the trip was more eating, shopping and hanging out with friends!
ddr
10-28-2009, 02:30 PM
exactly, it's a nice feature to have, but it's so heavy!
i don't think kata's quality was all that bad... plus the choice to become a backpack sells itself

so does the tenba let you swing on the other shoulder?
J____
10-30-2009, 04:44 PM
EA pays ok. The extra money is coming from all the photo gigs I've picked up this year. Combine that will diligent spending and anything's possible :D
As a matter of fact, my roomate has been unemployed since he moved in a year and a half ago and he's still paying his bills and traveling more then me! I don't get it!

Did you get your kata bag?

i'll bet ur roomate has no savings though :D

i havent gotten it yet, im still in the uk with 1 suitcase, 1 camera roller case, 1 tripod case, 1 backpack, all of which i have to maneuver on and off trains, cant add anything more to it lol and my luggage is already jammed packed. I think i'll get it when i head back to the states and dump some of my luggage. Also can wait for the new katas.