Who is many hours on the road, transported heavy equipment or searching for the greatest wearing comfort, is probably only with a backpack really happy. Who have the camera at hand and want to change his lenses often, probably chooses rather the classic photo bag, where he can access from the top of everything. So why a slingshot?
Slingshot benefits
This backpack variant combines these benefits to some degree with each other. The Slingshot is secure on the back and dangling around uncontrollably as the camera bag, very convenient when cycling. Nevertheless, the camera is easy to reach: With a handle can be the backpack from the back of pull in the chest and the camera can be quickly made ready for use by the side closure. In it are for me the two main advantages of Slingshot: camera immediately in hand and secure and reasonably comfortable transport. Besides, I can lean your elbows on the bag when I photograph and so have a quieter hand.
Slingshot disadvantages and Remedy
- The loaded shoulder does quickly hurt:
absolutely true, but there are tricks. Here, the weight is first crucial. DSLR, 6 lenses and laptop (as with larger KATA Slings possible) break a truly shoulder. I would therefore choose a maximum average bag size. The can then also hassle free draw in the chest and is not as clunky. In addition: The Slingshot can be worn on the wrong shoulder even with ergonomic straps. For this purpose only the second (lateral) strap must also be clicked, otherwise slips the slingshot from the shoulder. So you can change the shoulder like a shoulder bag sometimes.
- The belt length is often inappropriate: true conditionally.
I work a lot with the belt length and it does not bother me. Time is the Slingshot press fits for transport, times I need more space and when I take him to the other shoulder, then he has to sit very closely. If that is too stupid to buy a backpack.
- Thieves can easily get to the equipment, especially if the Slingshot is carried on the back: Jep is true. Advantage is also a disadvantage here. Fast access applies to all. Absolute security is only for backpack with access through the back padding.
Purchase decision
In my department I have the right Vanguard UP-Rise 43, the Lowepro SlingShot 202 AW and the KATA 3N1-20 compared. Everything Medium Slingshots for 1 DSLR and up to 4 additional lenses plus daypack.
The KATA can be worn on both sides as a slingshot or turning into a backpack. A great principle, but I have the belt a little disappointed. I also the lateral access to the many closures and RVs was too fiddly. Another disadvantage is that the rain cover does not have a specialist, but must be stowed in a separate pouch inside. In addition, the Klett-options are limited in the interior and the back part is not ventilated. Tripod mount only a purchased part.
The Lowepro scores with the tripod mount and nice touches such as the memory card holders in the side cover. Rain protection is integrated. Good slingshot, but the Vanguard looks a bit racier.
The Vanguard has ultimately made the race. Largely because of the ultra fast access (which was important to me) and its flexible interior layout. The two zippers on the side running in parallel and can be opened by a connection with a handle. Then solve even the plastic buckle and off you go. As the only Slingshot he has a reinforced floor for placement of the case without a good piece filthy equal. The back padding is still a tick better than the Lowepro and the wide strap was fine most suitable for me. The star-deduction is available for the missing tripod mount. The can not buy more, but only tinker with velcro strap itself. Too bad, that would probably have been really still in it. A clear stowage possibility for battery and memory cards also missing. There is a side pocket, the tuts but Lowepro shows how to do that properly.
Benefits:
- Fastest camera servicing of all models
- Reinforced bottom to stop the Slingshots
- Best back padding
- Good strap
- Integrated raincover
Disadvantages:
- No tripod mount, even as an accessory
- No additional pockets for memory cards and battery
- Quick access = less protection against theft
Conclusion: Good, snapshot-compatible backpack variant for up to 4 additional lenses,
Tip: best to test the various pockets in the business. Not everyone Slingshot fits any back. All wearing styles by taste, even if the Slingshot can well draw in the chest. Sorry, folks, but quite as simple as a shoulder bag, it is not here, until you find what you wanted.
