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Lowepro Pro Mag 2 AW or Bob Krist bag - Please help!

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Kharim Hogan

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Hi,

I need a new camera bag and have narrowed down my choices to these two bags: the Lowepro Pro Mag 2 AW and the Bob Krist camera bag. Unfortunately, none of the local stores have this particular Lowepro model in stock and as I understand it, the Bob Krist is only available through LL Bean. So I can't see firsthand either of these bags to make my decision. I'm hoping some of you who own either of these bags could help me out.

The reasons I've settled on these two models are the following:
  • I want a vertical format bag so I can easily access my camera with whatever lens I happen to have mounted rather than be restricted to short lenses while the camera is in the bag.
  • I want something that will hold all my gear and a bit extra which both of these bags seem quite capable of.
  • I don't want a bag that is wide and hangs out too far. I think the slimmer format will be easier to lug around especially when full.
  • I don't want something that looks too obvious as a camera bag.
  • I need something that is weather resistant.
  • Finally, since I do alot of street shooting (often in crowds), I don't want to have to worry about easy access by would-be pickpockets etc. while I'm not paying attention but at the same time, I want to be able to get into my bag relatively easily (i.e. I prefer zippers to velcro or clips). :)
Okay, here are the questions I have that I can't seem to find answers to:

About the Bob Krist bag...
  • How much does the Bob Krist bag weigh (empty)?
  • Does the Bob Krist bag have zippers or could one theoretically just reach in and grab something? The top doesn't seem to have a zipper and those side pockets seem easy to get into from the pictures.
  • How comfortable is the Bob Krist bag when worn as a backpack?
  • How weather resistant is the Bob Krist? Could it keep the equipment dry in a downpour?
About the Lowepro Pro Mag 2 AW...
  • Can this bag be worn as a backpack?
  • How easy is it to get in and out of?
  • Are there extra pockets for things such as wallets, airline tickets, pens, and other such trinkets?
  • Where is the best place to purchase this bag that might actually have them in stock (none of the stores here have them and it's 2 weeks to a month to get one...I need it by next week and I'm in Canada). ;)
About either bag...
  • Is there a way to attach a tripod to either of these bags?
  • Which one do you feel offers the most protection of one's equipment?
Well, those are my most pressing issues and questions. Which of these two bags would you recommend based on all those criteria and questions?

Thanks for any help!
Kharim
 
See comments in line below:
Kharim Hogan said:
About the Bob Krist bag...
  • How much does the Bob Krist bag weigh (empty)?
Click to expand...
Didn't weigh it, but it is not heavy.
Kharim Hogan said:
  • Does the Bob Krist bag have zippers or could one theoretically
just reach in and grab something? The top doesn't seem to have a
zipper and those side pockets seem easy to get into from the
pictures.
Click to expand...
No zippers, but no one is getting into the top flap without seriously wrestling with you and the clasp. The side pockets are velcro, and I assume someone could get into them, but I wouldn't worry.
Kharim Hogan said:
  • How comfortable is the Bob Krist bag when worn as a backpack?
Click to expand...
Quite comfortable, though as comfortable as any backpack without a frame.
Kharim Hogan said:
  • How weather resistant is the Bob Krist? Could it keep the
equipment dry in a downpour?
Click to expand...
Yes, I have used it that way a few times, though it is not water proof. I would want to get it out of the rain as soon as possible, or through a cheap poncho over it (which I have also done).

check out the review at: http://www.digitalfocus.net/Archives/ar_Bag/bobkristbag.htm

Good Luck!
Kharim Hogan said:
About the Lowepro Pro Mag 2 AW...
  • Can this bag be worn as a backpack?
  • How easy is it to get in and out of?
  • Are there extra pockets for things such as wallets, airline
tickets, pens, and other such trinkets?
  • Where is the best place to purchase this bag that might actually
have them in stock (none of the stores here have them and it's 2
weeks to a month to get one...I need it by next week and I'm in
Canada). ;)

About either bag...
  • Is there a way to attach a tripod to either of these bags?
  • Which one do you feel offers the most protection of one's equipment?
Well, those are my most pressing issues and questions. Which of
these two bags would you recommend based on all those criteria and
questions?

Thanks for any help!
Kharim
Click to expand...
--Peter SillsDigital Focuswww.digitalfocus.net
 
Hi

I have a Lowepro Promag 2, I cant comment on the other one, never seen it. I bought it for my D30 and kit which includes:
70-200 f4L
50 1.4
85 1.8
20 2.8
Sigma 14 3.5
1.4X TC
EX550
Manfrutto 440/460 tripod/head

The first thing I had to do with it was a wedding and I reckoned that the vertical format would be useful in allowing me to keep dipping into all the time for different lenses etc. Turned out that with all the gear in there (and I didn't have the 14mm or the tripod at that time) and a D60/EX550 round my neck, I was really weighted down and I preffered to put the bag down nearby (I was indoors). So I reckon that it would be useful for that kind of shooting if you just have a couple of lenses spare, unless you have steel shoulders. The strap is superb at distibuting the weight evenly but you don't want to load the bag up too much if its going on your shulder all the time.
Kharim Hogan said:
  • I don't want something that looks too obvious as a camera bag.
Click to expand...
It is one of the sexiest bags I have ever seen/worn and doesn't shout CAMERA at airports etc. But when you have your camera out and you are taking pictures it kind of shouts "PRO AT WORK" even if like me your just an amateur. The quality and detail and materials are better than anything else I have seen, it doesn't look flashy it looks like a serious bag.
Kharim Hogan said:
  • I need something that is weather resistant.
Click to expand...
It has a rain cover that comes out of the back and covers the whole bag, I used it in a rain storm and it kept the bag as dry as a bone!
Kharim Hogan said:
  • Finally, since I do alot of street shooting (often in crowds), I
don't want to have to worry about easy access by would-be
pickpockets etc. while I'm not paying attention but at the same
time, I want to be able to get into my bag relatively easily (i.e.
I prefer zippers to velcro or clips). :)
Click to expand...
Its mostly zips
Kharim Hogan said:
About the Lowepro Pro Mag 2 AW...
  • Can this bag be worn as a backpack?
Click to expand...
No
Kharim Hogan said:
  • How easy is it to get in and out of?
Click to expand...
Pretty easy
Kharim Hogan said:
  • Are there extra pockets for things such as wallets, airline
tickets, pens, and other such trinkets?
Click to expand...
The front pocket would be good for that and there is also a slim back pocket that would hold pasports and tickets.
Kharim Hogan said:
About either bag...
  • Is there a way to attach a tripod to either of these bags?
Click to expand...
Yeas but its fiddly and time consuming. There atr basically 2 straps with very rubbery non-slip insides on the front bottom corner of the bag, you have to tighten and loosen these things each time and they dont handle quickly because of the rubbery fabric. OK if you don't get tripod out a lot, but again your adding a lot more weight to just 'one' shoulder! I have also recently bought a Minitrekker so I can take my full kit out with a tripod and cope with the weight, but if I just had a couple of lenses I'd rather have the Promag on me
Kharim Hogan said:
  • Which one do you feel offers the most protection of one's equipment?
Click to expand...
It certainly feels safe in there
Kharim Hogan said:
Well, those are my most pressing issues and questions. Which of
these two bags would you recommend based on all those criteria and
questions?

Thanks for any help!
Kharim
Click to expand...
--Neil http://www.neilbuchangrant.co.ukand remember: 'Nightly Bile Beans keeps you young, healthy and bright!'
 
it meets all your qualifications (maybe not waterproof) and has a choice between top and side access, has tripod straps, hand strap, shoulder strap, and hidden backpack straps. I love mine. It is available in 3 sizes and you can buy the corresponding Pelican hard, waterproof case if you need to really protect the contents.

http://www03.bhphotovideo.com/default.sph/FrameWork.class?FNC=ProductActivator__Aproductlist_html___228220___PESB1520___REG___CatID=0___SID=ECE39E6BC80

Jim
Kharim Hogan said:
Hi,

I need a new camera bag and have narrowed down my choices to these
two bags: the Lowepro Pro Mag 2 AW and the Bob Krist camera bag.
Unfortunately, none of the local stores have this particular
Lowepro model in stock and as I understand it, the Bob Krist is
only available through LL Bean. So I can't see firsthand either of
these bags to make my decision. I'm hoping some of you who own
either of these bags could help me out.

The reasons I've settled on these two models are the following:
  • I want a vertical format bag so I can easily access my camera
with whatever lens I happen to have mounted rather than be
restricted to short lenses while the camera is in the bag.
  • I want something that will hold all my gear and a bit extra which
both of these bags seem quite capable of.
  • I don't want a bag that is wide and hangs out too far. I think
the slimmer format will be easier to lug around especially when
full.
  • I don't want something that looks too obvious as a camera bag.
  • I need something that is weather resistant.
  • Finally, since I do alot of street shooting (often in crowds), I
don't want to have to worry about easy access by would-be
pickpockets etc. while I'm not paying attention but at the same
time, I want to be able to get into my bag relatively easily (i.e.
I prefer zippers to velcro or clips). :)

Okay, here are the questions I have that I can't seem to find
answers to:

About the Bob Krist bag...
  • How much does the Bob Krist bag weigh (empty)?
  • Does the Bob Krist bag have zippers or could one theoretically
just reach in and grab something? The top doesn't seem to have a
zipper and those side pockets seem easy to get into from the
pictures.
  • How comfortable is the Bob Krist bag when worn as a backpack?
  • How weather resistant is the Bob Krist? Could it keep the
equipment dry in a downpour?

About the Lowepro Pro Mag 2 AW...
  • Can this bag be worn as a backpack?
  • How easy is it to get in and out of?
  • Are there extra pockets for things such as wallets, airline
tickets, pens, and other such trinkets?
  • Where is the best place to purchase this bag that might actually
have them in stock (none of the stores here have them and it's 2
weeks to a month to get one...I need it by next week and I'm in
Canada). ;)

About either bag...
  • Is there a way to attach a tripod to either of these bags?
  • Which one do you feel offers the most protection of one's equipment?
Well, those are my most pressing issues and questions. Which of
these two bags would you recommend based on all those criteria and
questions?

Thanks for any help!
Kharim
Click to expand...
 
although I haven't actually handled the Krist bag. I do have the ProMag 2 AW and love it. I really prefer a bag without a flap, it's much easier to reach and grap without a flap in the way all the time. The lid is small and gets out of the way quick using zipper or if in a hurry, two staps with quick release.

The AW cover is tucked away and invisible until needed and pops out instantly. It comes with a waist belt ... so you can carry it like a one strap knapsack, swung around on your back and use the waist belt to secure it and take the weight off your shoulder, works great. I have a PhotoTrekker AW backpack and never use it anymore.

It takes the S&F attachments for more accessories and bodies if you can handle the weight. The strap and pad are as good as it gets, but you can easily over load this bag, it packs an amazing about of gear, just stack your shorter lens (with a little pad in between). Turn the body so the prism is up along the short edge of the bag, that way it's turned so the right grip falls right under your hand when reaching in and the lens (I have a 28-70 L with hood reversed in there) is in one back corner ... another lens can fit next to it (100 macro USM), in the front corner. Stack a 14mm 2.8 under a 17-35 2.8 in another corner and a 70-200 (or maybe even a 100-400) in the last corner. Fill the "middle" with all sorts of stuff, a 50mm 1.8, Sekonic L508 meter, Angle finder C, Cokin P filters w/ holder and an HP Jornada go in mine, with 550EX, batteries, CF, lens brush, pens, etc. in the front compartment.

Highly recommended.
 
Jim,

I picked one up partly on your recommendation and I can say it is very well made. There is only one thing that bothers me- maybe it's just me but I find it difficult to remove the camera with a lens attached from the side opening- the material under the top handle hangs down and pretty much covers the camera body if you have the bag set up so you can remove the camera from the top opening. What has been your experience? Is there another way to set up the inserts to eliminate this?

GR
Jim Dawson said:
http://www03.bhphotovideo.com/default.sph/FrameWork.class?FNC=ProductActivator__Aproductlist_html___228220___PESB1520___REG___CatID=0___SID=ECE39E6BC80

Jim
Kharim Hogan said:
Hi,

I need a new camera bag and have narrowed down my choices to these
two bags: the Lowepro Pro Mag 2 AW and the Bob Krist camera bag.
Unfortunately, none of the local stores have this particular
Lowepro model in stock and as I understand it, the Bob Krist is
only available through LL Bean. So I can't see firsthand either of
these bags to make my decision. I'm hoping some of you who own
either of these bags could help me out.

The reasons I've settled on these two models are the following:
  • I want a vertical format bag so I can easily access my camera
with whatever lens I happen to have mounted rather than be
restricted to short lenses while the camera is in the bag.
  • I want something that will hold all my gear and a bit extra which
both of these bags seem quite capable of.
  • I don't want a bag that is wide and hangs out too far. I think
the slimmer format will be easier to lug around especially when
full.
  • I don't want something that looks too obvious as a camera bag.
  • I need something that is weather resistant.
  • Finally, since I do alot of street shooting (often in crowds), I
don't want to have to worry about easy access by would-be
pickpockets etc. while I'm not paying attention but at the same
time, I want to be able to get into my bag relatively easily (i.e.
I prefer zippers to velcro or clips). :)

Okay, here are the questions I have that I can't seem to find
answers to:

About the Bob Krist bag...
  • How much does the Bob Krist bag weigh (empty)?
  • Does the Bob Krist bag have zippers or could one theoretically
just reach in and grab something? The top doesn't seem to have a
zipper and those side pockets seem easy to get into from the
pictures.
  • How comfortable is the Bob Krist bag when worn as a backpack?
  • How weather resistant is the Bob Krist? Could it keep the
equipment dry in a downpour?

About the Lowepro Pro Mag 2 AW...
  • Can this bag be worn as a backpack?
  • How easy is it to get in and out of?
  • Are there extra pockets for things such as wallets, airline
tickets, pens, and other such trinkets?
  • Where is the best place to purchase this bag that might actually
have them in stock (none of the stores here have them and it's 2
weeks to a month to get one...I need it by next week and I'm in
Canada). ;)

About either bag...
  • Is there a way to attach a tripod to either of these bags?
  • Which one do you feel offers the most protection of one's equipment?
Well, those are my most pressing issues and questions. Which of
these two bags would you recommend based on all those criteria and
questions?

Thanks for any help!
Kharim
Click to expand...
Click to expand...
 
Hi Peter,

Thanks for all the clarifications. I had in fact read through your review which I found very useful. Thanks so much for writing it! It gives a far better idea of what the bag is all about than just a picture or two in a catalog.

Since I often spend alot of time out and about shooting, and am usually on foot, the weight and comfort of the bag is important for me as is weather resistance. Your suggestion to throw a poncho over it is a good idea.

One thing I really like about the Bob Krist is that it really seems to just look like "any other bag". What I worry about is shooting in crowds where you don't necessarily hear someone who's decided to help themselves to what's in your bag. :)

Thanks again for your help!
Kharim
Peter Sills said:
Member said:
About the Bob Krist bag...
  • How much does the Bob Krist bag weigh (empty)?
Click to expand...
Didn't weigh it, but it is not heavy.
Member said:
  • Does the Bob Krist bag have zippers or could one theoretically
just reach in and grab something? The top doesn't seem to have a
zipper and those side pockets seem easy to get into from the
pictures.
Click to expand...
No zippers, but no one is getting into the top flap without
seriously wrestling with you and the clasp. The side pockets are
velcro, and I assume someone could get into them, but I wouldn't
worry.
Member said:
  • How comfortable is the Bob Krist bag when worn as a backpack?
Click to expand...
Quite comfortable, though as comfortable as any backpack without a
frame.
Member said:
  • How weather resistant is the Bob Krist? Could it keep the
equipment dry in a downpour?
Click to expand...
Yes, I have used it that way a few times, though it is not water
proof. I would want to get it out of the rain as soon as possible,
or through a cheap poncho over it (which I have also done).

check out the review at:
http://www.digitalfocus.net/Archives/ar_Bag/bobkristbag.htm

Good Luck!
Member said:
About the Lowepro Pro Mag 2 AW...
  • Can this bag be worn as a backpack?
  • How easy is it to get in and out of?
  • Are there extra pockets for things such as wallets, airline
tickets, pens, and other such trinkets?
  • Where is the best place to purchase this bag that might actually
have them in stock (none of the stores here have them and it's 2
weeks to a month to get one...I need it by next week and I'm in
Canada). ;)

About either bag...
  • Is there a way to attach a tripod to either of these bags?
  • Which one do you feel offers the most protection of one's equipment?
Well, those are my most pressing issues and questions. Which of
these two bags would you recommend based on all those criteria and
questions?

Thanks for any help!
Kharim
Click to expand...
--
Peter Sills
Digital Focus
http://www.digitalfocus.net
Click to expand...
 
Hi Jim,

I did actually look at the Pelican. Seems like an attractive bag but I took it off my shortlist because from the pictures, it looks to be a rather wide bag. I'm a rather small woman and so while I'd really like to be able to bring along more of my gear, I also want to make sure I find something that is easy enough for me to carry around for hours at a time. This is why I like the idea of the backpack option with the Krist bag. It would allow me to redistribute the weight every so often. Is that something that's possible with the Pelican? Also, I prefer not to have to put the bag down to get at any gear. Were I mostly shooting in more rural settings, I'd not have a problem with that. But in the midst of a big city, I'm not as comfortable plopping down my bag and having the contents on display as I open it up to change a lens or what have you. Though perhaps I've not quite understood how the Pelican bags work. The opening on the top seems rather smallish. How easy is it to just pull out your camera with lens and hood attached when using that top opening?

Thanks again!
Kharim
Jim Dawson said:
http://www03.bhphotovideo.com/default.sph/FrameWork.class?FNC=ProductActivator__Aproductlist_html___228220___PESB1520___REG___CatID=0___SID=ECE39E6BC80

Jim
Kharim Hogan said:
Hi,

I need a new camera bag and have narrowed down my choices to these
two bags: the Lowepro Pro Mag 2 AW and the Bob Krist camera bag.
Unfortunately, none of the local stores have this particular
Lowepro model in stock and as I understand it, the Bob Krist is
only available through LL Bean. So I can't see firsthand either of
these bags to make my decision. I'm hoping some of you who own
either of these bags could help me out.

The reasons I've settled on these two models are the following:
  • I want a vertical format bag so I can easily access my camera
with whatever lens I happen to have mounted rather than be
restricted to short lenses while the camera is in the bag.
  • I want something that will hold all my gear and a bit extra which
both of these bags seem quite capable of.
  • I don't want a bag that is wide and hangs out too far. I think
the slimmer format will be easier to lug around especially when
full.
  • I don't want something that looks too obvious as a camera bag.
  • I need something that is weather resistant.
  • Finally, since I do alot of street shooting (often in crowds), I
don't want to have to worry about easy access by would-be
pickpockets etc. while I'm not paying attention but at the same
time, I want to be able to get into my bag relatively easily (i.e.
I prefer zippers to velcro or clips). :)

Okay, here are the questions I have that I can't seem to find
answers to:

About the Bob Krist bag...
  • How much does the Bob Krist bag weigh (empty)?
  • Does the Bob Krist bag have zippers or could one theoretically
just reach in and grab something? The top doesn't seem to have a
zipper and those side pockets seem easy to get into from the
pictures.
  • How comfortable is the Bob Krist bag when worn as a backpack?
  • How weather resistant is the Bob Krist? Could it keep the
equipment dry in a downpour?

About the Lowepro Pro Mag 2 AW...
  • Can this bag be worn as a backpack?
  • How easy is it to get in and out of?
  • Are there extra pockets for things such as wallets, airline
tickets, pens, and other such trinkets?
  • Where is the best place to purchase this bag that might actually
have them in stock (none of the stores here have them and it's 2
weeks to a month to get one...I need it by next week and I'm in
Canada). ;)

About either bag...
  • Is there a way to attach a tripod to either of these bags?
  • Which one do you feel offers the most protection of one's equipment?
Well, those are my most pressing issues and questions. Which of
these two bags would you recommend based on all those criteria and
questions?

Thanks for any help!
Kharim
Click to expand...
Click to expand...
 
Hi Neil,

This bag is starting to sound more appealing. Granted, I do wish it came in a lighter colour like the Krist bag does. Might be better for keeping the heat away from the lenses and gear, yes?

I should've been a bit more clear about how I want to use the bag. What I want is the option to cart around all my gear in the bag (i.e. when I really need every bit of it, or when travelling), but I don't usually take everything when just going out on a specific shoot (unless I figure I'll need it all). So this way, I don't get too weighted down. Unfortunately, I don't have such a strong back to be able to comfortably cart everything out with me all the time. :)

I like that, as you say, it shouts "pro at work" but not "expensive camera gear inside". This is a good thing.

Okay, I understand what you mean about the tripod straps. I have the Lowepro Orion belly pack thing which has similar sounding straps. I agree, it's a pain if you want to get the tripod out in a hurry.

Hmmm, this bag sounds quite nice as well. I worry a bit about how much weight I might have on that one shoulder though. Have you used that waist strap that's supposed to come with it? Does that help to distribute the weight?

I'm really stumped as to what to do. Ideally, a backpack is best for me but I get frustrated because it's not easy to get in and out of it while shooting without taking it off and putting it down. Meanwhile, the shoulder bag might just be too heavy for long shoots. But this Pro Mag 2 seems so perfect. Hmmm...thinking out loud here... ;)

Thanks Neil! I'm going to re-read this thread cause there's lots of helpful answers.

Kharim
Buchan-Grant said:
The first thing I had to do with it was a wedding and I reckoned
that the vertical format would be useful in allowing me to keep
dipping into all the time for different lenses etc. Turned out that
with all the gear in there (and I didn't have the 14mm or the
tripod at that time) and a D60/EX550 round my neck, I was really
weighted down and I preffered to put the bag down nearby (I was
indoors). So I reckon that it would be useful for that kind of
shooting if you just have a couple of lenses spare, unless you have
steel shoulders. The strap is superb at distibuting the weight
evenly but you don't want to load the bag up too much if its going
on your shulder all the time.
Buchan-Grant said:
  • I don't want something that looks too obvious as a camera bag.
Click to expand...
It is one of the sexiest bags I have ever seen/worn and doesn't
shout CAMERA at airports etc. But when you have your camera out and
you are taking pictures it kind of shouts "PRO AT WORK" even if
like me your just an amateur. The quality and detail and materials
are better than anything else I have seen, it doesn't look flashy
it looks like a serious bag.
Buchan-Grant said:
  • I need something that is weather resistant.
Click to expand...
It has a rain cover that comes out of the back and covers the whole
bag, I used it in a rain storm and it kept the bag as dry as a bone!
Buchan-Grant said:
  • Finally, since I do alot of street shooting (often in crowds), I
don't want to have to worry about easy access by would-be
pickpockets etc. while I'm not paying attention but at the same
time, I want to be able to get into my bag relatively easily (i.e.
I prefer zippers to velcro or clips). :)
Click to expand...
Its mostly zips
Buchan-Grant said:
About the Lowepro Pro Mag 2 AW...
  • Can this bag be worn as a backpack?
Click to expand...
No
Buchan-Grant said:
  • How easy is it to get in and out of?
Click to expand...
Pretty easy
Buchan-Grant said:
  • Are there extra pockets for things such as wallets, airline
tickets, pens, and other such trinkets?
Click to expand...
The front pocket would be good for that and there is also a slim
back pocket that would hold pasports and tickets.
Buchan-Grant said:
About either bag...
  • Is there a way to attach a tripod to either of these bags?
Click to expand...
Yeas but its fiddly and time consuming. There atr basically 2
straps with very rubbery non-slip insides on the front bottom
corner of the bag, you have to tighten and loosen these things each
time and they dont handle quickly because of the rubbery fabric. OK
if you don't get tripod out a lot, but again your adding a lot more
weight to just 'one' shoulder! I have also recently bought a
Minitrekker so I can take my full kit out with a tripod and cope
with the weight, but if I just had a couple of lenses I'd rather
have the Promag on me
Buchan-Grant said:
  • Which one do you feel offers the most protection of one's equipment?
Click to expand...
It certainly feels safe in there
Buchan-Grant said:
Well, those are my most pressing issues and questions. Which of
these two bags would you recommend based on all those criteria and
questions?

Thanks for any help!
Kharim
Click to expand...
--
Neil
http://www.neilbuchangrant.co.uk
and remember:
'Nightly Bile Beans keeps you young, healthy and bright!'
Click to expand...
 
Thanks Thom! I've been wondering about that waist belt. I really want to have the option to redistribute the weight. So I'm glad to hear you say it works nicely. I prefer to have the bulk of the weight either around my hips or on my back but want the convenience of being able to access the bag quickly. I want it all! :)

A question...is the bag deep enough that you could have your 28-70 with the hood on and not reversed?

Oh, and another question...when the bag is full, does it stand up by itself when you put it down or does it tend to fall over onto its side?

Thanks!
Kharim
Thom said:
although I haven't actually handled the Krist bag. I do have the
ProMag 2 AW and love it. I really prefer a bag without a flap,
it's much easier to reach and grap without a flap in the way all
the time. The lid is small and gets out of the way quick using
zipper or if in a hurry, two staps with quick release.

The AW cover is tucked away and invisible until needed and pops out
instantly. It comes with a waist belt ... so you can carry it like
a one strap knapsack, swung around on your back and use the waist
belt to secure it and take the weight off your shoulder, works
great. I have a PhotoTrekker AW backpack and never use it anymore.

It takes the S&F attachments for more accessories and bodies if you
can handle the weight. The strap and pad are as good as it gets,
but you can easily over load this bag, it packs an amazing about of
gear, just stack your shorter lens (with a little pad in between).
Turn the body so the prism is up along the short edge of the bag,
that way it's turned so the right grip falls right under your hand
when reaching in and the lens (I have a 28-70 L with hood reversed
in there) is in one back corner ... another lens can fit next to it
(100 macro USM), in the front corner. Stack a 14mm 2.8 under a
17-35 2.8 in another corner and a 70-200 (or maybe even a 100-400)
in the last corner. Fill the "middle" with all sorts of stuff, a
50mm 1.8, Sekonic L508 meter, Angle finder C, Cokin P filters w/
holder and an HP Jornada go in mine, with 550EX, batteries, CF,
lens brush, pens, etc. in the front compartment.

Highly recommended.
Click to expand...
 
I always take my D30 out from the top and find it pretty convenient. They also have a smaller size, the PCS145. Its 3 inches narrower than the 152 which is 17" wide.

http://www03.bhphotovideo.com/default.sph/FrameWork.class?FNC=ProductActivator__Aproductlist_html___228218___PESB1450___REG___CatID=0___SID=ECE48C22190___call=specs#goto_specifications

Jim
Kharim Hogan said:
I did actually look at the Pelican. Seems like an attractive bag
but I took it off my shortlist because from the pictures, it looks
to be a rather wide bag. I'm a rather small woman and so while I'd
really like to be able to bring along more of my gear, I also want
to make sure I find something that is easy enough for me to carry
around for hours at a time. This is why I like the idea of the
backpack option with the Krist bag. It would allow me to
redistribute the weight every so often. Is that something that's
possible with the Pelican? Also, I prefer not to have to put the
bag down to get at any gear. Were I mostly shooting in more rural
settings, I'd not have a problem with that. But in the midst of a
big city, I'm not as comfortable plopping down my bag and having
the contents on display as I open it up to change a lens or what
have you. Though perhaps I've not quite understood how the Pelican
bags work. The opening on the top seems rather smallish. How easy
is it to just pull out your camera with lens and hood attached when
using that top opening?

Thanks again!
Kharim
Jim Dawson said:
http://www03.bhphotovideo.com/default.sph/FrameWork.class?FNC=ProductActivator__Aproductlist_html___228220___PESB1520___REG___CatID=0___SID=ECE39E6BC80

Jim
Kharim Hogan said:
Hi,

I need a new camera bag and have narrowed down my choices to these
two bags: the Lowepro Pro Mag 2 AW and the Bob Krist camera bag.
Unfortunately, none of the local stores have this particular
Lowepro model in stock and as I understand it, the Bob Krist is
only available through LL Bean. So I can't see firsthand either of
these bags to make my decision. I'm hoping some of you who own
either of these bags could help me out.

The reasons I've settled on these two models are the following:
  • I want a vertical format bag so I can easily access my camera
with whatever lens I happen to have mounted rather than be
restricted to short lenses while the camera is in the bag.
  • I want something that will hold all my gear and a bit extra which
both of these bags seem quite capable of.
  • I don't want a bag that is wide and hangs out too far. I think
the slimmer format will be easier to lug around especially when
full.
  • I don't want something that looks too obvious as a camera bag.
  • I need something that is weather resistant.
  • Finally, since I do alot of street shooting (often in crowds), I
don't want to have to worry about easy access by would-be
pickpockets etc. while I'm not paying attention but at the same
time, I want to be able to get into my bag relatively easily (i.e.
I prefer zippers to velcro or clips). :)

Okay, here are the questions I have that I can't seem to find
answers to:

About the Bob Krist bag...
  • How much does the Bob Krist bag weigh (empty)?
  • Does the Bob Krist bag have zippers or could one theoretically
just reach in and grab something? The top doesn't seem to have a
zipper and those side pockets seem easy to get into from the
pictures.
  • How comfortable is the Bob Krist bag when worn as a backpack?
  • How weather resistant is the Bob Krist? Could it keep the
equipment dry in a downpour?

About the Lowepro Pro Mag 2 AW...
  • Can this bag be worn as a backpack?
  • How easy is it to get in and out of?
  • Are there extra pockets for things such as wallets, airline
tickets, pens, and other such trinkets?
  • Where is the best place to purchase this bag that might actually
have them in stock (none of the stores here have them and it's 2
weeks to a month to get one...I need it by next week and I'm in
Canada). ;)

About either bag...
  • Is there a way to attach a tripod to either of these bags?
  • Which one do you feel offers the most protection of one's equipment?
Well, those are my most pressing issues and questions. Which of
these two bags would you recommend based on all those criteria and
questions?

Thanks for any help!
Kharim
Click to expand...
Click to expand...
Click to expand...
 
Thanks Jim! Now that one looks more my size. :) And it says it has backpack straps. Have you tried those? Is it comfortable?

I'm going to take a closer look at that option. Oh no...just when I thought I was down to two choices... :)

Thanks,
Kharim
Jim Dawson said:
http://www03.bhphotovideo.com/default.sph/FrameWork.class?FNC=ProductActivator__Aproductlist_html___228218___PESB1450___REG___CatID=0___SID=ECE48C22190___call=specs#goto_specifications

Jim
Kharim Hogan said:
I did actually look at the Pelican. Seems like an attractive bag
but I took it off my shortlist because from the pictures, it looks
to be a rather wide bag. I'm a rather small woman and so while I'd
really like to be able to bring along more of my gear, I also want
to make sure I find something that is easy enough for me to carry
around for hours at a time. This is why I like the idea of the
backpack option with the Krist bag. It would allow me to
redistribute the weight every so often. Is that something that's
possible with the Pelican? Also, I prefer not to have to put the
bag down to get at any gear. Were I mostly shooting in more rural
settings, I'd not have a problem with that. But in the midst of a
big city, I'm not as comfortable plopping down my bag and having
the contents on display as I open it up to change a lens or what
have you. Though perhaps I've not quite understood how the Pelican
bags work. The opening on the top seems rather smallish. How easy
is it to just pull out your camera with lens and hood attached when
using that top opening?

Thanks again!
Kharim
Jim Dawson said:
http://www03.bhphotovideo.com/default.sph/FrameWork.class?FNC=ProductActivator__Aproductlist_html___228220___PESB1520___REG___CatID=0___SID=ECE39E6BC80

Jim
Kharim Hogan said:
Hi,

I need a new camera bag and have narrowed down my choices to these
two bags: the Lowepro Pro Mag 2 AW and the Bob Krist camera bag.
Unfortunately, none of the local stores have this particular
Lowepro model in stock and as I understand it, the Bob Krist is
only available through LL Bean. So I can't see firsthand either of
these bags to make my decision. I'm hoping some of you who own
either of these bags could help me out.

The reasons I've settled on these two models are the following:
  • I want a vertical format bag so I can easily access my camera
with whatever lens I happen to have mounted rather than be
restricted to short lenses while the camera is in the bag.
  • I want something that will hold all my gear and a bit extra which
both of these bags seem quite capable of.
  • I don't want a bag that is wide and hangs out too far. I think
the slimmer format will be easier to lug around especially when
full.
  • I don't want something that looks too obvious as a camera bag.
  • I need something that is weather resistant.
  • Finally, since I do alot of street shooting (often in crowds), I
don't want to have to worry about easy access by would-be
pickpockets etc. while I'm not paying attention but at the same
time, I want to be able to get into my bag relatively easily (i.e.
I prefer zippers to velcro or clips). :)

Okay, here are the questions I have that I can't seem to find
answers to:

About the Bob Krist bag...
  • How much does the Bob Krist bag weigh (empty)?
  • Does the Bob Krist bag have zippers or could one theoretically
just reach in and grab something? The top doesn't seem to have a
zipper and those side pockets seem easy to get into from the
pictures.
  • How comfortable is the Bob Krist bag when worn as a backpack?
  • How weather resistant is the Bob Krist? Could it keep the
equipment dry in a downpour?

About the Lowepro Pro Mag 2 AW...
  • Can this bag be worn as a backpack?
  • How easy is it to get in and out of?
  • Are there extra pockets for things such as wallets, airline
tickets, pens, and other such trinkets?
  • Where is the best place to purchase this bag that might actually
have them in stock (none of the stores here have them and it's 2
weeks to a month to get one...I need it by next week and I'm in
Canada). ;)

About either bag...
  • Is there a way to attach a tripod to either of these bags?
  • Which one do you feel offers the most protection of one's equipment?
Well, those are my most pressing issues and questions. Which of
these two bags would you recommend based on all those criteria and
questions?

Thanks for any help!
Kharim
Click to expand...
Click to expand...
Click to expand...
Click to expand...
 
Guy,

I guess you're right about the side opening. I always remove the camera from the top so it doesn't really bother me. I guess there are some compromises with a bag that has so many options. I hope my recomendation hasn't caused you too much grief.

I really think its an awesome bag for $99.00.

I bought the hard case off ebay and have used it a few times. It is a really tight fit, but great protection. I also found the larger hard case, I believe the 1550, also on ebay. It is a little large for the 152 soft case, but I manage to fill it with other stuff to take up the slack.

Jim
Guy Rehorst said:
Jim,

I picked one up partly on your recommendation and I can say it is
very well made. There is only one thing that bothers me- maybe it's
just me but I find it difficult to remove the camera with a lens
attached from the side opening- the material under the top handle
hangs down and pretty much covers the camera body if you have the
bag set up so you can remove the camera from the top opening. What
has been your experience? Is there another way to set up the
inserts to eliminate this?

GR
Click to expand...
 
I only briefly tried the backpack straps and if the 152 is loaded up, it wouldn't be the most comfortable backpack made. It wasn't uncomfortable, but not suitable for wearing on your back all day. I think you'd have to get a real backpack with the waist straps, etc to do that.

I haven't seen the 145, only the picture, so I don't know how much it will hold. The 152 also has expandable side pockets that are very usefull, I didn't notice if the 145 has those or not.

Jim
Kharim Hogan said:
Thanks Jim! Now that one looks more my size. :) And it says it
has backpack straps. Have you tried those? Is it comfortable?

I'm going to take a closer look at that option. Oh no...just when
I thought I was down to two choices... :)

Thanks,
Kharim
Click to expand...
 
I just have to recommend the bag I use... Tamrac's Zoom Traveler 6 (Model 606)

http://tamrac.com/606.htm

It might be a little bulkier than what you're looking for, but I went through 6 other camera bags--mostly shoulder bags, one backpack--before I found this one, and I love it. It's got plenty of space, easy access, great protection... just an all around awesome bag. Nothing to distribute the weight, though.

Check it out.. costs about $110 and is worth every penny.

Jae-- Jae Winter
 
I have more bags than I care to count, but really only use two -- a Bob Krist bag (when I want more of my kit) and a Lowepro TLZ Pro AW (when I only want to carry one lens).

I particularly like the Bob Krist bag. It is easy to use, can be carried by the handle, slung over a shoulder, or used as a backpack. I can put my D30 with grip upright in it with either a 70-200 or 100-400 attached, and still have room for several other lenses (such as a 17-35, a 28-135 and a 50 f/1.4), a flash, and lots of accessories (batteries, filters, etc.). I find it easy to get into, and like that it doesn't look at all like a camera bag.

I carried the Bob Krist bag loaded throughout the recent Olympic Winter Games in Salt Lake City, in all kinds of weather (sun, rain and snow), at both indoor and outdoor venues, while dressed up, dressed casually or dressed warmly in many layers, and it worked well every time.

I particularly like the backpack straps, and the fact they can be tucked away (in which case the bag looks rather like a casual briefcase).

One note -- there is no way to attach a tripod. I have stuck a monopod in it, though. That worked fine.
 
Jim,

Thanks, you've convinced me they (the 145 and 152) are definitely both worth a look. I'm going to see if I can find them locally to check out. I suspect that the backpack straps on the Bob Krist wouldn't make for the most comfortable backpack either (someone mentioned this in the thread). But to at least have the option is an added bonus, I think anyway. I figure if I can move the bag to my back for a while just to offload the shoulder, it would help on long days of shooting. At least that's my thinking.

Kharim
Jim Dawson said:
I haven't seen the 145, only the picture, so I don't know how much
it will hold. The 152 also has expandable side pockets that are
very usefull, I didn't notice if the 145 has those or not.

Jim
Kharim Hogan said:
Thanks Jim! Now that one looks more my size. :) And it says it
has backpack straps. Have you tried those? Is it comfortable?

I'm going to take a closer look at that option. Oh no...just when
I thought I was down to two choices... :)

Thanks,
Kharim
Click to expand...
Click to expand...
 
Oh boy, this is a tough decision. These bags sound great. Okay, I'm happy noone has any really bad things to say of either choice. If only the two bags could be combined. :)

Thanks for sharing this info. It's the kind of stuff I want to know about the bags. I think it may boil down to a coin toss?

Kharim
K. Flint said:
I have more bags than I care to count, but really only use two -- a
Bob Krist bag (when I want more of my kit) and a Lowepro TLZ Pro AW
(when I only want to carry one lens).

I particularly like the Bob Krist bag. It is easy to use, can be
carried by the handle, slung over a shoulder, or used as a
backpack. I can put my D30 with grip upright in it with either a
70-200 or 100-400 attached, and still have room for several other
lenses (such as a 17-35, a 28-135 and a 50 f/1.4), a flash, and
lots of accessories (batteries, filters, etc.). I find it easy to
get into, and like that it doesn't look at all like a camera bag.

I carried the Bob Krist bag loaded throughout the recent Olympic
Winter Games in Salt Lake City, in all kinds of weather (sun, rain
and snow), at both indoor and outdoor venues, while dressed up,
dressed casually or dressed warmly in many layers, and it worked
well every time.

I particularly like the backpack straps, and the fact they can be
tucked away (in which case the bag looks rather like a casual
briefcase).

One note -- there is no way to attach a tripod. I have stuck a
monopod in it, though. That worked fine.
Click to expand...
 
Thanks Jae. I've added it to my shortlist (which is quickly becoming a long list). :) The weight distribution is a key issue for me but if I find one to try out, I'll try it on for size.

Kharim
jae winter said:
I just have to recommend the bag I use... Tamrac's Zoom Traveler 6
(Model 606)

http://tamrac.com/606.htm

It might be a little bulkier than what you're looking for, but I
went through 6 other camera bags--mostly shoulder bags, one
backpack--before I found this one, and I love it. It's got plenty
of space, easy access, great protection... just an all around
awesome bag. Nothing to distribute the weight, though.

Check it out.. costs about $110 and is worth every penny.

Jae
--
Jae Winter
Click to expand...
 
Look carefully at what lenses you plan to own. The Lowepro is 6.5 inches deep and the Krist only 4 which means you are going to be putting all of your lenses in vertically and some of these lenses are very wide eating up the width of the bag quickly. The Pro Mag II is only 11 inches wide with very thick dividers. I have the Pro Mag I which is identical except that the II is 2 inches deeper. My point is that a 16-35 and a 28-135 with hoods will eat up the whole width of the bag. Yes there is some room left over but not enough for another lens column. In my opinion the Pro Mag II is too small for the lenses I have (16-35, 50mm, 28-135 and a 70-200 to come).

The Krist is two inches wider but only four inches deep according to the specs I just picked off their web site. Four inches would not accomodate some telephotos with hoods reversed which really makes me wonder why so many people tout that bag.

Buy with expansion in view because you just know you are going to be adding more lenses down the road.

Just my thoughts, Kharim.

billtoo
Kharim Hogan said:
Hi,

I need a new camera bag and have narrowed down my choices to these
two bags: the Lowepro Pro Mag 2 AW and the Bob Krist camera bag.
Unfortunately, none of the local stores have this particular
Lowepro model in stock and as I understand it, the Bob Krist is
only available through LL Bean. So I can't see firsthand either of
these bags to make my decision. I'm hoping some of you who own
either of these bags could help me out.

The reasons I've settled on these two models are the following:
  • I want a vertical format bag so I can easily access my camera
with whatever lens I happen to have mounted rather than be
restricted to short lenses while the camera is in the bag.
  • I want something that will hold all my gear and a bit extra which
both of these bags seem quite capable of.
  • I don't want a bag that is wide and hangs out too far. I think
the slimmer format will be easier to lug around especially when
full.
  • I don't want something that looks too obvious as a camera bag.
  • I need something that is weather resistant.
  • Finally, since I do alot of street shooting (often in crowds), I
don't want to have to worry about easy access by would-be
pickpockets etc. while I'm not paying attention but at the same
time, I want to be able to get into my bag relatively easily (i.e.
I prefer zippers to velcro or clips). :)

Okay, here are the questions I have that I can't seem to find
answers to:

About the Bob Krist bag...
  • How much does the Bob Krist bag weigh (empty)?
  • Does the Bob Krist bag have zippers or could one theoretically
just reach in and grab something? The top doesn't seem to have a
zipper and those side pockets seem easy to get into from the
pictures.
  • How comfortable is the Bob Krist bag when worn as a backpack?
  • How weather resistant is the Bob Krist? Could it keep the
equipment dry in a downpour?

About the Lowepro Pro Mag 2 AW...
  • Can this bag be worn as a backpack?
  • How easy is it to get in and out of?
  • Are there extra pockets for things such as wallets, airline
tickets, pens, and other such trinkets?
  • Where is the best place to purchase this bag that might actually
have them in stock (none of the stores here have them and it's 2
weeks to a month to get one...I need it by next week and I'm in
Canada). ;)

About either bag...
  • Is there a way to attach a tripod to either of these bags?
  • Which one do you feel offers the most protection of one's equipment?
Well, those are my most pressing issues and questions. Which of
these two bags would you recommend based on all those criteria and
questions?

Thanks for any help!
Kharim
Click to expand...
-- http://www.pbase.com/billtoo
 
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