Thoughts On This Backpack

[InsaneBoost]

Hey everyone,

New here so please excuse me if I'm acting a bit noobish. I've been searching all yesterday and today for a backpack/camerabag as I like to shoot photography while hiking. I ended up finding a bag that seems to be more than enough, as well as the addition of a camera bag as a front loader, that will hold more than enough equipment.

Could you click the link and scroll to the 4th page in PDF. It's the K5 v2 I'm looking at. It retails at $379.99. I know the camera bag will work, but what about the actual backpack for hiking.

https://www.dropbox.com/s/ig02yfa9znhd6 ... web-02.pdf" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Does it seem like a good buy?

Thanks!

[maverick]

Please post questions about gear in the "Outdoor Gear Topix" section, where this post
has now been moved. Thanks.

[InsaneBoost]

My mistake Maverick, saw backpacking and went right there.

[FeetFirst]

Is there an outfitter local to you that has this pack to try on and test? Why this pack? From the specs, I don't find it an appealing pack. Finally, it's not a manufacturer widely recognized in the outdoor industry.

From the brochure:

K5 v2

Lightweight and comfortable, the K5v2 80L is a large and
versatile pack with adequate space and organization for
weeklong trips. The K5v2 80L enables you to keep hiking while
the pack is on your back and the included camera pod is at the
front, should you need to snap a quick photo. Some outdoor
photographers just use it for weight balancing.

Fabrics
Nylon 420 HD SD 2xPU
Nylon 210D Rip Stop
Nylon 630D OX HD 2xPU
Size: 80L
Frame Type: Internal
Zipper Type: YKK

Weight:
Pod: 2 lbs
Pack: 6.7 lbs
Combined: 8.7 lbs

Features of the pack
- Top and front access to the main compartment.
- Internal aluminum frame.
- Built in seams sealed rain cover.
- Dual walking pole loops.
- Internal Hydration sleeve.
- Adjustable torso.
- Side compression straps.
- Top,Hip belt, and side stretch pockets.
- Tripod carrying system.
- Removable shoulder sack.
- Sleeping bag compartment.& straps.
- Dedicated fitting for camera POD.
Features of the pod
- Can be use as a shoulder bag or backpack
- Fits up to 9” telephoto lens along with 3-4
smaller lenses and 1-2 flash units.
- Can be straped directly to the pack shoulder
harness.
- Built in seams sealed rain cover.
- Front pocket for accessories
- Side stretch pockets.
- Inside mesh pocket.

[InsaneBoost]

Mainly it's the ability to have the camera gear along with me, but as a new hiker I wanted to see if the backpack itself was good to use for camping. Was more about killing two birds with one stone than anything.

[sparky]

http://www.mchalepacks.com/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Just go there and have the guy build the pack you want. Just dont look at the prices

He used to do custom work, but I don't see it on his site now, so maybe my link is irrelevant. Was going to suggest you get one custom built

[ndwoods]

Too heavy for me. What do the rest of you think of front mounted camera gear bags? I usually just use a neoprene cover and wear my camera on the front when I want to shoot....

[InsaneBoost]

What would be an ideal weight for an 80L? Obviously you want light as possible, but I read 80's are 4-6 pounds.

[LMBSGV]

This is what I use (ignore the dumb name). Granted, I don't use a DSLR, but a Leia M7 with three lenses that all fit in the bag along with filters, compass, whistle, spare batteries, a SPOT messenger, and a few other small items. Think Tank claims it will hold a DSLR and a lens. If this won't work, you can also check out the other Think Tank bags or bring your camera and lenses into a dealer who stocks Think Tank bags.

http://www.thinktankphoto.com/products/ ... hiney.aspx" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[InsaneBoost]

Not sure they sell anything big enough for all I want to carry, granted I understand it's more than most would want to.

I believe I can buy the front loader or whatever it's exactly called by Naneu and attach it to another backpack.