Can anyone recommend any backpacks/suitcases to transport my LF camera/lenses/gear?

[manfrominternet]

Hi all,

I'm currently transporting my Linhof Technikardan 45, 5 lenses, a loupe, wide-angel bellows, a light meter, a dark cloth, two medium format panoramic backs (6x12, 6x17), and cleaning accessories in my bulky and extremely heavy HPRC 2700W hard case, and it's time to replace this beast. I originally got this insane case to further protect my camera set, but it has become a painful burden. The whole set with the case weighs over 50lbs and it's breaking my back, making me eschew my going out and photographing. The HPRC 2700 case alone weighs 20lbs. Here are some pictures of my current setup so you can better understand my (literal) pain:

205658 205659 205660

I'd like to replace this case with perhaps a backpack or another case that's a little more comfortable, lighter, and easier to maneuver. Since this HPRC case already had a perforated foam cube that I shaped to fit all of my gear, maybe I could just get a standard (and much lighter) airport luggage/suitcase with a similar inner dimensions (21.8" x 18" x 10.1" / 55.4 x 45.7 x 25.6cm) and put said perforated foam cube inside that to save a couple pounds?


I'd love to hear your suggestions and recommendations.

[Ethan]

I don't think it is that big on the inside, but I use the f.64 BPX extra large backpack. The main compartment is 13x13x6" and the secondary one is 8x13x6. The dividers in both compartments can be removed making it the most customizable backpack I've come across (and one of the only ones that can fit an 8x10).

[esearing]

Atlas backpacks and others discussed here. https://www.largeformatphotography.info/forum/showthread.php?152509-Atlas-BackPacks-for-4x5. - can be found here: https://atlaspacks.com/pages/learn-about-the-adventure-pack
But packs this large are usually in the 5-6lb range so may not be less than your case, but will have shoulder straps and waist belt to make it easier to carry - if you can lift it.

Mine: All this plus a 6x9film back and have added a 200SF lens in the empty slot. Moved the holders to the bottom and the glass to the middle.
https://i2.wp.com/www.searing.photography/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/AtlasAdventure.jpg?w=1460&ssl=1

[manfrominternet]

I don't think it is that big on the inside, but I use the f.64 BPX extra large backpack. The main compartment is 13x13x6" and the secondary one is 8x13x6. The dividers in both compartments can be removed making it the most customizable backpack I've come across (and one of the only ones that can fit an 8x10).

Yeah, I've recently been looking at the f.64 BPX. How do you like it?

So far, I'm seriously considering either the f.64 BPX (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CPS2DKK) or the Neewer 2-in-1 Rolling Camera Backpack Trolley Case. (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07335TKZ6)

If I get the f.64 BPX, I wonder if I'm going to miss the wheels...

The Neewer 2-in-1 has wheels, but may just unnecessarily weigh the whole thing down.

f.64 BPX
205671 205672

Neewer 2-in-1 Rolling Camera Backpack Trolley Case
205673 205674

[mpirie]

Another vote for the f64 BPX.

I've tried a few difference cases and keep coming back to the f64. As has been said, it's literally one large compartment which can be adjusted to suit the particular equipment you're carrying.

The one difference i have from the standard is to use fishing reel soft cases to hold two lenses each, so protecting them a bit more.

One thing i don't like is having to put the bag down with the harness side on the ground and you have to be careful not to pick up ticks etc when you lift it up again. If it could open from the harness side, then it'd be perfect.....at least for me.

Mike

[Tin Can]

I don't and won't back pack

I use Gator Mixer cases, immense variety

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1126494-REG/gator_cases_g_mixerbag_1818_padded_nylon_mixer_equipment.html

[esearing]

When I did my comparison I took note of some differences between the F64 and the Atlas packs. Both are good but you may want to consider:
The F64 is always full size even if you do not fill it. The Atlas packs are shrinkable or expandable.
The F64 utilizes exterior add-ons to accommodate more stuff, while the atlas can expand somewhat but does not really support addon Molle components.
The F64 opens from the front (straps down), where as Atlas opens from the back so your shoulder straps are not laying in mud.
Atlas harness system is adjustable in height and has the tensioners at the top to adjust the gap. I can not tell if the F64 has similar adjustments.
Both have removable belts for traveling. Belt on the Atlas is very wide and supportive.
Where to put the tripod? F64 takes an addon accessory, Atlas has a cargo accessory but it can fit in front pocket or side pockets.
I can attest the Atlas is somewhat water proof for at least a short tumble in a creek.
Lastly - Enthusiasm of users. 8x10 and Drone users will be happy with F64. digital SLR to 4x5 users can use either. If you watch the YouTube reviews of both systems, the Atlas folks are much more dynamic and really seem to love their packs vs F64 users merely display its features.

You can also take Tin Can's approach and find a nice lightweight top loader and just pull out your Gator Cases in the field.

[Alan9940]

I use this: https://fstopgear.com/products/icu/pro-icu-large to carry my Arca-Swiss 4x5, 5 lenses, and a few misc items. When I need to carry it longer distances, I toss it into a photobackpacker Kelty frame along with any other items I may need.

[Kiwi7475]

Definitely the f-stop ICU is probably the most flexible route, which can be incorporated into many (including non-F-Stop) hiking backpacks of as many litters as you need to fit the additional items you need. You can bring your ICU to REI or equivalent and check the bag you like best.

[Daniel Casper Lohenstein]

Hi, Linhof recommends König Fotorucksack 2. So do I. It is really good. Especially if you want to take the panoramic backs with you.

I made some good experiences with the Lowepro 500 Powder. But I think the panoramic backs will not fit in the photo compartment.

I recommend taking the gear into the store and figuring it out.



Hi all,

I'm currently transporting my Linhof Technikardan 45, 5 lenses, a loupe, wide-angel bellows, a light meter, a dark cloth, two medium format panoramic backs (6x12, 6x17), and cleaning accessories in my bulky and extremely heavy HPRC 2700W hard case, and it's time to replace this beast. I originally got this insane case to further protect my camera set, but it has become a painful burden. The whole set with the case weighs over 50lbs and it's breaking my back, making me eschew my going out and photographing. The HPRC 2700 case alone weighs 20lbs. Here are some pictures of my current setup so you can better understand my (literal) pain:

205658 205659 205660

I'd like to replace this case with perhaps a backpack or another case that's a little more comfortable, lighter, and easier to maneuver. Since this HPRC case already had a perforated foam cube that I shaped to fit all of my gear, maybe I could just get a standard (and much lighter) airport luggage/suitcase with a similar inner dimensions (21.8" x 18" x 10.1" / 55.4 x 45.7 x 25.6cm) and put said perforated foam cube inside that to save a couple pounds?


I'd love to hear your suggestions and recommendations.

[Alan Gales]

I have back issues and can't get along with a backpack so I use this for my 8x10. When I want to carry more I have a cheap vinyl cooler I stack on top of it. I had a cheap bag with small wheels before this. The 6" wheels really help.

https://www.amazon.com/Klein-Tools-55452RTB-Rollling-Tradesman/dp/B00BZXA35I/ref=asc_df_B00BZXA35I/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=167133658256&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=4383121664115263639&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9022898&hvtargid=pla-316285031515&psc=1

[Daniel Casper Lohenstein]

What about a so-called "Pilgerwagen", aka "trekking trailer",

https://v.kickstarter.com/1594713288_0d6cacee5467cd07797503ac3b0274372d7d8a79/projects/2369690/video-649401-h264_high.mp4

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/87677361/monowalker-fatmate-the-ultimate-hiking-trailer https://www.arrowhead-equipment.com/store/p320/Dixon_Roller_Pack.html http://pilgerwagen.blogspot.com/2014/12/v-behaviorurldefaultvmlo.html

[Bertha DeCool]

I bid on an "open box" Nanuk 935 for short money and got a non-OEM padded interior for it; it weighs 10lbs and fills my need for exact dimension for airline carry-on.
It holds 5x7 Kodak 2D, 3 lenses, extension, and everything else I need except 5 film holders, unless I'm bringing a Nicola Perscheid 36cm in which case the film holders replace the lenses and all 4 lenses fit in another low-bid Nanuk case, a 915 model.
So I guess you can assume I'm a big fan of Nanuk cases...
I'm enjoying this thread; I'll eventually need something to carry into the woods but a wheeled case suits my current needs just right.

[Alan Klein]

Yeah, I've recently been looking at the f.64 BPX. How do you like it?

So far, I'm seriously considering either the f.64 BPX (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CPS2DKK) or the Neewer 2-in-1 Rolling Camera Backpack Trolley Case. (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07335TKZ6)

If I get the f.64 BPX, I wonder if I'm going to miss the wheels...

The Neewer 2-in-1 has wheels, but may just unnecessarily weigh the whole thing down.

f.64 BPX
205671 205672

Neewer 2-in-1 Rolling Camera Backpack Trolley Case
205673 205674

I settled on the F.64 over a wheelie type. The problem I found is that the handle and extension for wheelies goes right down the center. So I couldn't fit in my Chamonix 45H-1. A foldable F2 might work though. THe F.64 is pretty good. I don't like the fact that the shoulder harness assembly doesn't pack away. There's no real holders for tripod. It's pretty cheap comparatively.

[Alan Klein]

Another vote for the f64 BPX.

I've tried a few difference cases and keep coming back to the f64. As has been said, it's literally one large compartment which can be adjusted to suit the particular equipment you're carrying.

The one difference i have from the standard is to use fishing reel soft cases to hold two lenses each, so protecting them a bit more.

One thing i don't like is having to put the bag down with the harness side on the ground and you have to be careful not to pick up ticks etc when you lift it up again. If it could open from the harness side, then it'd be perfect.....at least for me.

Mike

I was thinking of spraying mine with Permethrin for ticks. I wonder how long that would last?

[Alan Klein]

I was thinking of spraying mine with Permethrin for ticks. I wonder how long that would last?

I got this information from Sawyer: https://sawyer.com/products/permethrin-insect-repellent-treatment/

Lasts for 6 Weeks or 6 Washes
Unlike topical insect repellents applied to the skin, Permethrin is applied to clothing and outdoor gear material, bonding to the fabric fibers for up to 6 weeks (42 days) or 6 washings.

[giganova]

After weeks of research, I ordered an f-stop Mountain Series Lotus backpack (https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1499088-REG/f_stop_m135_71_mountain_series_lotus_day.html) when it was on sale at B&H for $191.- Fantastic backpack for a LF kit!

[esearing]

Give us a review when you get it.

[Drew Bedo]

A few years ago Ihad a Pelican backpack (soft) that was big enough to carry my 8x10 2D with one lens and the other things needed for an afternoon of shooting, but not more than that. It \was a bit more like a piece of luggage with an extendable handle and wheels. it needed some repair, as a foot was missing. i couldn't get Pelican to fix it for love nor money, which surprised me.

Has anyone else used one of these soft Pelican bags? What was your experience?

[faraz]

I get my 4x5 into a LowePro ProTactic 450 II easily but just tried the Gibellini 8x10 and there's no chance of it even almost fitting! Also have a monster Nikon 360mm f6.5 to compound matters. I just got the 8x10 and really questioning if I can realistically shoot it or will have to sell it. Anyone know of a backpack that'll carry an 8x10?

[faraz]

Spoke to soon, little poking around and check what I've got and a Ultimaxx backpack for a Phantom Pro 4 drone works really well. Lens is in a wrap in the main compartment which is not ideal, but got 2 film holders back compartment in and could probably add another 2. Tripod on the side maybe, ok for an hours hike, not more

[CreationBear]

Anyone know of a backpack that'll carry an 8x10?

That's a topic that has been kicked around a lot, with the divide being between people who like dedicated "photo" packs, and those of us who gravitate toward adapting backpacking/military packs. If it were me, I'd be looking at something like a British Army Bergen (around 120 liters of DPM-goodness IIRC:)) but be sure the packbag itself is of a big enough diameter that you can fit your 8x10 inside.

[Kiwi7475]

I get my 4x5 into a LowePro ProTactic 450 II easily but just tried the Gibellini 8x10 and there's no chance of it even almost fitting! Also have a monster Nikon 360mm f6.5 to compound matters. I just got the 8x10 and really questioning if I can realistically shoot it or will have to sell it. Anyone know of a backpack that'll carry an 8x10?

What are its dimensions folded?