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

There appears to be room for a bigger notebook as long as you leave the front pocket unzipped to expand it's depth. I have about two inches free on the sides total. The top flap latches easily with the front pocket expanded or not.

John
Hi John,

I've been looking at getting the Bob Krist bag also, although I
thought it would not hold my camera gear and laptop. I have the
exact same setup you have except for the 100-400 lens, I have the
70-200/F4 with the 1.4x II. And my laptop is probably larger then
yours. (it's an Asus L8400).Do you think a larger laptop would fit
it that bag?

Any comments appreciated,Thanks.
Andre.
 
Kharim,

I can't send you an email because it says you have "chosen not to have it visible at dpreview" So you will have to email me...I got several emails also asking for the bag so just drop me an email.

-Jamil
I haven't decided yet but will have to soon as I would like to have
the camera for a trip I'm taking. I'm at work at moment. If you
could email me and let me know how much you want for your bag, I'll
get back to you in a couple of hours (soon as I get home).

Thanks!
Kharim
-Jamil
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
 
Jamil,

Oops. Thanks for pointing that out. I'll have to see how to change that. I just sent you mail...

Kharim
-Jamil
I haven't decided yet but will have to soon as I would like to have
the camera for a trip I'm taking. I'm at work at moment. If you
could email me and let me know how much you want for your bag, I'll
get back to you in a couple of hours (soon as I get home).

Thanks!
Kharim
-Jamil
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
 
Hi Kharim,

I just ordered one at Henrys.com for $88.05. You might want to check it out, and it is a brand new one.

James
Oops. Thanks for pointing that out. I'll have to see how to
change that. I just sent you mail...

Kharim
-Jamil
I haven't decided yet but will have to soon as I would like to have
the camera for a trip I'm taking. I'm at work at moment. If you
could email me and let me know how much you want for your bag, I'll
get back to you in a couple of hours (soon as I get home).

Thanks!
Kharim
-Jamil
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
 
You really are talking about two entirely different bags here.

The BKB can easily hold 2 lenses the size of the 100-400mm zoom, as well as the camera and a 16-35mm lens, plus a lot more. Looking at the LowePro I really don't see the comparison.

Peter
I just ordered one at Henrys.com for $88.05. You might want to
check it out, and it is a brand new one.

James
Oops. Thanks for pointing that out. I'll have to see how to
change that. I just sent you mail...

Kharim
-Jamil
I haven't decided yet but will have to soon as I would like to have
the camera for a trip I'm taking. I'm at work at moment. If you
could email me and let me know how much you want for your bag, I'll
get back to you in a couple of hours (soon as I get home).

Thanks!
Kharim
-Jamil
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
--Peter SillsDigital Focuswww.digitalfocus.net
 
Hi James,

Thanks for the tip. I don't know why but they seem to be cheaper here in Canada. I can order one locally (I'm in Montreal) for $130 Can (~$81 US). Aden Camera in Toronto also has them at that price.

BUT, I stopped by a dealer here tonight to see what I could find. I was hoping to be able to look at some of the bags that were mentioned in this thread. Alas, I had no luck on that front but I did run across a bag that might just meet most of my criteria. It's a bit more expensive than the Pro Mag 2 and about the same price as the Bob Krist. It's called the Lowepro Trim Trekker. Pretty much the same dimensions as the Bob Krist but not nearly as classy looking as either the BKB or the Pro Mag 2. Also it's not an AW like the Pro Mag 2. On the plus side though, it has zippers and clasps, which the BKB doesn't seem to have. Also, what I really really like is that it can be worn as a backpack since it has a really nicely padded system there for that. Both the back of the bag and the backpack straps are heavily padded. Also it can be worn around the waist or over the shoulder. Seems like a really nice set of options. It doesn't shout "camera inside", I don't think though I still think the BKB is the real winner on that front. Also, this Trim Trekker has a funny side pocket that slides out which can hold a long lens or other peripherals which you might want to have very handy.

Anyway, it's looking at the moment like this might be the bag I'll go with. I'm still looking to see if I can find either of the Pro Mag 2 or the Pelican PCS145 in stock somewhere so I can have a look-see. The BKB I won't be able to look at since it's only available at LL Bean from what I understand.

So that's the latest in my quest for the ultimate bag. :) Still not decided yet though. A woman's prerogative...thankfully! ;)

Thanks again! Do let me know how you like your new Pro Mag 2 when you receive it.

Kharim
Hi Kharim,

I just ordered one at Henrys.com for $88.05. You might want to
check it out, and it is a brand new one.

James
 
Peter,

The Pro Mag 2 seems to be 3" shorter at about 10" (in height) than the BKB but is wider. I figure the volume should be about the same between the two bags. Mind you, the BKB being deeper would likely more easily hold a camera with a long lens mounted.

I agree with you that the two bags are different. I think the final choice of one bag over the other comes down more to one's ultimate uses for the bag, the type of equipment one tends to lug around most often, and how one prefers to carry the bag and access the contents. So far, I haven't seen that one bag is necessarily better than the other as they do, as you point out, offer different features. They both seem quite interesting as choices though in their own ways. Now, if only someone would put up a comprehensive review comparable to the one you did for the BKB... ;)

Kharim
The BKB can easily hold 2 lenses the size of the 100-400mm zoom, as
well as the camera and a 16-35mm lens, plus a lot more. Looking at
the LowePro I really don't see the comparison.

Peter
Hi Kharim,

I just ordered one at Henrys.com for $88.05. You might want to
check it out, and it is a brand new one.

James
 
Take a close look at the specs on that bag, Kharim. The bottom drawer, which seems kind of hokey to me, is only 3.5 inches high. The 28-135, which many people have, won't fit in there with the lens hood reversed. (The lens hood is 3.75 inches wide.) The 16-35 sure won't fit either as won't the 70-200. But thanks for the heads-up. I had missed that one in my search through the Lowepro bags.

billtoo
Called up a local dealer at lunch to see if they had the Pro Mag 2
in stock so I could have a look at it. They didn't have it and
suggested the Lowepro Trim Trekker.

http://www.lowepro.com/pages/Series/Trekking/TrekBKPK/TrimTRK.htm

Was looking at the specs and it seems to be very close in
dimensions to the Bob Krist and hence a little bit longer than the
Pro Mag 2. This may be a bit on the long side, I'm not sure. I
really need to put one over my shoulder.

BUT, it has both a shoulder strap and backpack straps (which look
considerably more comfortable than those of the Bob Krist bag).
It's not an AW so doesn't have the cover that that Pro Mag 2 has.
And, from the pictures, it SEEMS to have a more obvious "camera
bag" look. The Bob Krist really seems to shine in the "this is not
a camera bag" look dept. It also has the tripod straps, like the
Pro Mag 2. Oh, and it's quite heavy at over 4 pounds.

Oh boy, this is really a tough decision. Have any of you had any
experience with this Twin Trekker bag? How would you compare it to
the Krist and/or Pro Mag 2? I'm going to go have a look at it
tonight (the Twin Trekker) so that I'll at least have seen one up
close. :)

If anyone has this bag, please let me know what you think and if
you think it would be too long for an average small woman.

Thanks so much for all your help everyone!! My short list is
becoming soooo long. Sigh! ;)

Kharim
-- http://www.pbase.com/billtoo
 
Something doesn't add up. The specs say it's only four inches deep, which seems unbelievable and which wouldn't allow you to put a 100-400 in for sure. How deep, front to back, is the interior of that bag? Would appreciate if you'd measure it.

billtoo
Canon EOS 1D
16-35mm lens and hood (haven't tried it attached)
100-400mm lens and hood (reversed/storage position)
50mm 1.4 lens
550ex flash
spare battery for 1D
77mm circular polarizing filter
bulb air blower
DeWitt Jones Chest Strap
Sony Viao R505DL notebook computer (in front pocket)
Firewire cable

There is room to spare. The bag has enough give to allow the 1D
without too much bulging. It seemed fairly comfortable to carry.
The bags construction is top notch. I tried attaching a tripod,
but that didn't work out too well. I'll keep experimenting.

John
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
-- http://www.pbase.com/billtoo
 
Hi Kharim,

I own a LowePro Mag 2 AW but don´t use it much anymore. Problem: weight ( not the bag - the bag is very light )

I found out that it isn´t smart to carry around a lot of equipment on one shoulder. With over 20 pound of equipment I prefer a backpack. If you don´t have so much stuff you will be better of with a more compact bag.

Don´t get me wrong. The bag is extremly well built. There is a lot of space for small parts ( pens,.. ) and access is easy but if I would do street shooting I would but my 20-35 on my camera and a second flashcard in my vest.

Joachim
http://www.joachimgerstl.com
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
--joachim
 
Hi Bill,

Actually, you might want to take a second look at the bag. I wondered about that drawer too and thought it took up too much valuable space in the bag. But last night I went to a local dealer to check it out. Here's the interesting thing about that drawer... First, it's actually bigger than it looks and can also be divided up with velcro dividers if you don't want to use it for a lens. BUT, the fun thing is that you can remove the dividers at the bottom of the bag (the part above the drawer) which then leaves you the extra 3.5" at the bottom of the bag. This means you can mount your 70-200 lens onto your camera and store it vertically in the bag without any problems. Of course, this means you can't pull the drawer out the side when the bag is used this way. But I thought it was fun because it offers the option of using the drawer either as a side pull-out when you have shorter lenses mounted on your camera, or simply to increase the depth of the bag to store your camera with longer lenses mounted.

Admittedly though, I had to see the bag up close to find this out. I don't know if this would make a difference for you but I thought it was worth mentioning.

Kharim
billtoo
Called up a local dealer at lunch to see if they had the Pro Mag 2
in stock so I could have a look at it. They didn't have it and
suggested the Lowepro Trim Trekker.

http://www.lowepro.com/pages/Series/Trekking/TrekBKPK/TrimTRK.htm

Was looking at the specs and it seems to be very close in
dimensions to the Bob Krist and hence a little bit longer than the
Pro Mag 2. This may be a bit on the long side, I'm not sure. I
really need to put one over my shoulder.

BUT, it has both a shoulder strap and backpack straps (which look
considerably more comfortable than those of the Bob Krist bag).
It's not an AW so doesn't have the cover that that Pro Mag 2 has.
And, from the pictures, it SEEMS to have a more obvious "camera
bag" look. The Bob Krist really seems to shine in the "this is not
a camera bag" look dept. It also has the tripod straps, like the
Pro Mag 2. Oh, and it's quite heavy at over 4 pounds.

Oh boy, this is really a tough decision. Have any of you had any
experience with this Twin Trekker bag? How would you compare it to
the Krist and/or Pro Mag 2? I'm going to go have a look at it
tonight (the Twin Trekker) so that I'll at least have seen one up
close. :)

If anyone has this bag, please let me know what you think and if
you think it would be too long for an average small woman.

Thanks so much for all your help everyone!! My short list is
becoming soooo long. Sigh! ;)

Kharim
--
http://www.pbase.com/billtoo
 
Hi Joachim,

Good points you make. I do own a smaller bag which I originally bought specifically for street shooting. It's the Lowepro Orion. As it turns out though, it's too small even though I only ever bring 1 or 2 lenses out on those days. I like to bring my 35mm and Sigma 15-30. The Sigma takes up alot of space. In addition, I try to pack my wallet and digital wallet into the bag. I can get it all in but it's stuffed to overflowing and is extremely inconvenient to get in the bag when it's full like that to pull out the camera or anything else that's in it. Drives me nuts. So, while one of these bigger bags will be more than I need for street shooting, at least I think/feel I'll have room to maneuver within the bag without having to pull everything out everytime I want something. I'm hoping anyway. It's a tossup really. I could go with two bags, which I may eventually. Ultimately though, I doubt I'll ever cart around 20 or more pounds of equipment except when I'm travelling or trekking. But for shooting, that is less likely. At least, I'm hoping I won't be tempted to fill the bag just because I have the space. :)

Thanks for bringing up these points. I'm hoping to decide by the weekend which bag I'll finally settle on because I need it for an upcoming trip.

Kharim

PS: Great website and enjoyed the shots of the homeland (Canada)! ;)
I own a LowePro Mag 2 AW but don´t use it much anymore. Problem:
weight ( not the bag - the bag is very light )
I found out that it isn´t smart to carry around a lot of equipment
on one shoulder. With over 20 pound of equipment I prefer a
backpack. If you don´t have so much stuff you will be better of
with a more compact bag.

Don´t get me wrong. The bag is extremly well built. There is a lot
of space for small parts ( pens,.. ) and access is easy but if I
would do street shooting I would but my 20-35 on my camera and a
second flashcard in my vest.

Joachim
http://www.joachimgerstl.com
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
--
joachim
 
The side pads measure a little over 4 inches. The actual opening measures closer to 4.5 inches (but can be stretched further). The padding is not stiff and allows the bag to expand when putting things inside. The 100-400 is snug, but putting it in and taking it out is not a problem. The 1D pushes the edges out a little further, but doesn't seem to be stressing any seams. If I get time, I'll take and post pictures later.

John
Something doesn't add up. The specs say it's only four inches
deep, which seems unbelievable and which wouldn't allow you to put
a 100-400 in for sure. How deep, front to back, is the interior of
that bag? Would appreciate if you'd measure it.

billtoo
 
Thanks again to everyone for all your help, feedback and suggestions. Things got really difficult in terms of finding the "ideal" bag as both of the ones on my original shortlist seemed to have pros and cons (more pros than cons). Then there were the other bags you all suggested. Ultimately, it seemed that if only I could have all those bags combined into one...

Well, I think I've actually come close. I've found a bag that looks like it might just be it. It may be slightly on the longish side but only ever so slightly. I think eventually the length will be welcome. Anyway, in case anyone's interested, the bag I'm probably going to get on the weekend is the Lowepro Trim Trekker.

http://www.lowepro.com/pages/Series/Trekking/TrekBKPK/TrimTRK.htm

I'd be curious to hear anyone's comments on this bag/choice if you have any. I was actually able to see this one in person as they are in stock here in town.

Again, thanks so much to all!
Kharim
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
 
I hope you like it. I looked at it at my local dealer a while back, and thought it to be a bit of an odd bag. Didn't really do anything particularly well, but was very flexible. Really didn't like the "drawer" concept as it took too much away from storing truly large lenses in it.

Hope you like it though, sound like you've done a lot of research.

Peter
Well, I think I've actually come close. I've found a bag that
looks like it might just be it. It may be slightly on the longish
side but only ever so slightly. I think eventually the length will
be welcome. Anyway, in case anyone's interested, the bag I'm
probably going to get on the weekend is the Lowepro Trim Trekker.

http://www.lowepro.com/pages/Series/Trekking/TrekBKPK/TrimTRK.htm

I'd be curious to hear anyone's comments on this bag/choice if you
have any. I was actually able to see this one in person as they
are in stock here in town.

Again, thanks so much to all!
Kharim
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
--Peter SillsDigital Focuswww.digitalfocus.net
 
Thanks Peter, I hope I will like it too. Haven't bought it yet...I'm planning on having another good look at it on the weekend. I do agree with you, it's a bit of an odd bag and of the ones I was considering, it's definitely the ugliest. Doesn't have the slick look to it of either the BKB or the Pro Mag 2 IMO. But the thing that really seems to be the clincher for me with this one (and this will most likely sound like the silliest reason) is the padded backpack straps and padded backing on the bag. On the weekend, I'm going to bring in my gear to see how it fits and also put it on my back and over my shoulder to see how it sits. I'm hoping it will be okay. There's not much talk about this particular bag on this forum or others. I'm still curious as to why. :)

Kharim
Hope you like it though, sound like you've done a lot of research.

Peter
Well, I think I've actually come close. I've found a bag that
looks like it might just be it. It may be slightly on the longish
side but only ever so slightly. I think eventually the length will
be welcome. Anyway, in case anyone's interested, the bag I'm
probably going to get on the weekend is the Lowepro Trim Trekker.

http://www.lowepro.com/pages/Series/Trekking/TrekBKPK/TrimTRK.htm

I'd be curious to hear anyone's comments on this bag/choice if you
have any. I was actually able to see this one in person as they
are in stock here in town.

Again, thanks so much to all!
Kharim
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
--
Peter Sills
Digital Focus
http://www.digitalfocus.net
 
Trying to follow some of these posts is a real challenge, Jim. Yes, I was refering to the Pelican but I have no first hand experience with it. My comments were based on the photo on the B&H site. From that photo it appeared that 90% of the stuff was side loaded. I keep leaning towards the Lowepro Pro Magnum AW which looks like a large Pelican only because the bag is so big that the top looks like the side of the Pelican.

Of one thing I'm convinced and that is that no one bag will do it all unless a person has a very limited amount of equipment.

billtoo
Jim
You have to sit it down to get anything out of it as it is side
loaded.

billtoo

--
http://www.pbase.com/billtoo
-- http://www.pbase.com/billtoo
 

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