4x5 pack help

[Bill Smithe]

I am looking for a way to carry my New Arca Swiss F 4x5 Metric. I have read the section on backpacks and still don't know what to do.

I have the following gear and would like some recommendations. I intend to trave l and take my gear on airplanes.

Arca Swiss 4x5 F Metric 2 Lenses (One on Camera) Lee Filter System Polaraoid 545i Kodak Readyload holder Dark Cloth Tripod & Head Cable Releases 12 4x5 Fidelity Film Holders

Thanks

[David_892]

Try tamrac's system 13 (613) extended pro large bag, looking t the KJP catalogue it says that it fits under an airline seat.

[Masayoshi Hayashi]

Try this? It works to me.

[Scott Bacon]

I use a LowePro Omnni Traveler for my Wista DX wood field, couple lenses, spot meter, dark cloth, etc. And then I slip it into a 'real' backpackers backpack. My latest pack is the LoweAlpine Vision 35 (yes I really like the stuff made by Lowe). My tripod straps on the side or back easily. There is still extra room in the pack for jacket, water, food, 35mm, etc. I took this rig to New Zealand last fall and had no trouble with the airlines. I spend a lot of time on the trail, so I'm willing to sacrifice the convenience (and expense) of a photo backpack for the comfort of a good suspension system. Although, the photo backpacks have been GREATLY improved over just the last few years and will probably work just fine for shorter, day-hikes.

[neil poulsen]

I have an older f-line, and would offer the following suggestions.

Get an adaptor to reduce the size of your lensboards. Whether or not they're available now, they used to make one for Linhof technika boards. They also have an adaptor for their smaller 110mm boards. Along the way, someone attached just the lensboard holder from a graphlex camera into an Arca recessed lensboard, and this has worked well for me. I especially like the small size of these lensboards.

The Arca 30cm telescoping rail is a real plus for backpacks, because you can back the camera onto one of the 15cm rails. Removing the rail and camera gives you a compact package that can be stored in most backpacks. The remainder of the rail can be stored elsewhere in the pack.

My f-line has a center-hole at the top of each standard. (Does yours?) I cut a 1/4"x3"x1-1/4" piece of wood, drilled two holes 1/4" from each end, and screwed two nylon 5/8" screws into these holes. The holes should be small enough so that the screws are tight. (The screws should be narrow enough to slip easily into the holes on the camera.) Inserting this small device into the holes at the top of the camera while storing the camera in a pack provides support at the top of the camera, while the base mechanism provides support at the bottom. As an additional measure, I release the shift, tilt, and swing mechanisms at the bottom. Without these precautions, the base mechanisms can eventually loosen, given the stresses that would otherwise receive during storage. This small device is easly removed when you want to use the camera.

[Glenn Kroeger]

I have recently acquired an OutPack (Domke/Saunders) Backpack for my Arca-Swiss 45 Field. It has individually opening compartments that can be opened with the pack in a vertical position. It also fits all current airline templates for carryon luggage. The main compartment holds the camera with lens attached. The upper compartment holds a box of Quickload with the Quickload holder. The middle compartment holds 3 additional lenses and boards and my compendium shade, and the outside pocket holds my filters. The lower compartment holds the rain cover, a darkcloth and an extra box of Quickload if necessary.

The one caveat here is that my lenses are on 110mm boards, so like a previous poster suggested, your task is much easier if you find a way of using smaller lensboards.

[neil poulsen]

Adding to my post: Thinking about it, I use the additional support device I mentioned above because I store the camera with the wide-angle, leather bellows.

[Bill Smithe]

Great Advice, thanks all. I may have to buy one of each! ;-) I am going to look at the Domke Outpack first (tomorrow). Then check out a hikers pack.

Thanks again.

[Glenn Kroeger]

Bill... when you look at hikers packs, you should take a look at an Osprey Departure. It is a straightjacket style bag but with a large panel opening. In the medium and small sizes, if packed moderately, will fit airline templates. It also has a carrying handle and cover flap for the belt and shoulder harness so it can be carried like luggage.

Although I like the Domke/OutPack, you may find that it doesn't have the room you need for your conventional film holders. They take up a lot of space. I don't use them anymore so the OutPack fit my gear fine.

By the way, here are some useful URL's:

http://www.ospreypacks.com/packs http://saundersphoto.com/html/outpack.htm

Good luck.

[Daniel Taylor]

I have the Linhof Technikardan with four Schneider lenses. I had purchased the Outpack for my 35mm gear and was pleased to find I can get all my 4x5 equipment into it. I believe the LF pack of choice here in the pacific northwest is made by Tenba. the 4x5 holder present a problem, however there is a secret compartment at the bottom of the pack where you can stash eight or so holders. going to readyloads helps. my main obstacle is the tripod. haven't figured out a workable solution other than the Gitzo over my shoulder.

good light to you!