Cases for 11x14 Camera (V11)
I put a similar question along with a WTB ad in the classifieds section but figured starting a thread here might be useful. I've been looking around for people's recommendations for cases for 11x14 cameras, specifically Deardorff V11, but I've found that many of the things I'm reading are at least a few years old and the companies in some cases are no longer around. I'd be very interested to know what cases people are using and what are current solutions to this. Thanks!
Re: Cases for 11x14 Camera (V11)
The local craigslist here has a used Underwater Kinetics case for sale, similar to Pelican, with wheels and extended handle. I'm tempted to get it for my Deardorff V8. Backpacks are sort of okay, fine for my 4x5 gear, but a hard case with wheels seems a lot more convenient when staying close to the car and around home with a larger camera. Plus it's for the extra protection in a car/truck while traveling and loading/unloading. I have experience traveling with my musician wife and her heavy music equipment. So I know the benefits of good protection, good organization, hauling out of the vehicle, up/down stairs and down hallways. If I do buy the advertised case for my 8x10 I'll let you know how it works out.
Re: Cases for 11x14 Camera (V11)
For my American Optical 11x14" camera, I found a used Tenba case for a Mac G5 Tower. These cases are well made, suitable for shipping, designed for road warriors traveling to conventions and trade shows and originally cost around $450-650, and now that there are laptops powerful enough for such purposes, they can be found relatively inexpensively. They stand vertically and load conveniently from the top and have one divider, and are just the right size for a folding 11x14" field camera and some holders with space for lenses and other accessories. For a case this size and this sturdy, they're also fairly lightweight. The models to look for are the Tenba Roadshow RS-G5W (with wheels) and the RS-G5T (without).
Re: Cases for 11x14 Camera (V11)
What are the folded dimensions of the camera?
You might look also at the Lightware V-series cases.
Re: Cases for 11x14 Camera (V11)
I bought a Bull Pac, link here, http://www.bullpacs.com/ ,mine is the xxl model. I put a poece of upholstery foam on the pack which bends onto the bottom shelf. I took an appropriate square of quilted cloth and placed it 45 degrees to perpendicular. It works like a lens wrap with the corners folding in. The camera lays in, I place the folded dark cloth on it, place two holders in Kraft envelopes on top and then secure it with straps which adjust and have plastic snap locks. On the top of the frame, I wire tied two small Tamrac pouches which accomodate 1 lens each..Email me and I can return some snapshot of it (anybody).. I live on an iPad now and can't post the pocs in this forum from here..Evan Clarke
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Re: Cases for 11x14 Camera (V11)
I'll think I'll end up with a Tenba case if all works out. I'm thinking about a similar solution to Evan's but using the Bull Pac to carry the Tenba when I need to backpack with it. I would assume that I can strap the Tenba to it using straps in the same way and it should be just as secure. Evan, how comfortable is carrying your rig?
Re: Cases for 11x14 Camera (V11)
So I ended up with the Tenba case which is a perfect fit and holds the V11 along with 3 holders with room for dark cloth and maybe the lenses. I also spoke with a very sweet woman at BullPacs. They are sending me a BullPac and she even went out of her way to have me call back with the dimensions of the Tenba case so she could set up a custom strap rig specifically intended for the case. Very generous customer services from BullPacs! I'll update when the frame arrives.
Re: Cases for 11x14 Camera (V11)
Hi Francesco, Did you receive your BullPac? Pics loaded with the Tenba?