Hasselblad Carrying System Recommendations (w/ Pic)

[ebokeh]

<p>Hi there - i've restarted my search for an alternate carrying system for my medium format camera.<br /> <br /> For the last 3 years or so i've been using a LowePro Photo Trekker AW. It's pretty loaded up and i've used it a lot and carried it a fair distance along with full camping supplies using the little side-car pack that comes along with it and a hydration pack strapped to the side. I've definitely over-done it with that pack a few times. <br /> <br /> My impression of it is about the same as others have had: <br /> - uncomfortable for anything more than about a mile or two (especially with weight)<br /> - generally not useful (harmful) after 5 miles (again, fully packed)<br /> - heavy and clunky<br /> - doesn't make good use of space<br /> - it does an excellent job of keeping my gear safe and sound (seriously, 0 complaints)<br /> <br /> Here's a picture of it in its current configuration along with description of the contents and layout (without the camping supplies). I use this all the time:<br /> <br /> /> <br /> I'm going to use a real hiking backpack (day pack) to carry my gear. I'm looking at individual lens protectors and camera protection so i can pick and choose what i bring with me on any given hike. I'm looking at using the lowe-pro lens holders (http://products.lowepro.com/catalog/Lens-Cases,11.htm) for the lenses.<br /> <br /> I still need a suitable case for my camera (500c/m + 120 back + 80mmCF). I want something that's not big and bulky (compact) but protects the camera well.<br /> <br /> As far as the pack I want to be able to carry a subset of the gear from my PhotoTrekker (above) as well as extra clothes, food etc... I've been looking at packs and have a few that are close but nothing i'm head over heals about yet. Sizes between 35-45 liters looks to be right.<br /> <br /> Pack needs:<br /> - Top and Side entry<br /> - Compatible with an Internal Hydration pack<br /> - External Tripod Attachment<br /> - Good harness with solid waist belt/support<br /> <br /> Current short list:<br>

<a href="http://www.thenorthface.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?productId=58298&storeId=207&catalogId=10201&langId=-1&from=subCat&parent_category_rn=11748&variationId=0C5">Northface Partol (discontinued)</a><br>

- Can't find one in person to check out but on paper it looks like a good fit for what i want to do<br>

<a href="http://www.thenorthface.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?productId=70160&storeId=207&catalogId=10201&langId=-1&from=subCat&parent_category_rn=11748&variationId=7D9">Northface Spire 40</a><br>

- No side entry, external attachment points could be better, don't know how it'll work for my tripod<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.thenorthface.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?productId=70164&storeId=207&catalogId=10201&langId=-1&from=subCat&parent_category_rn=11748&variationId=395">Northface Fulcrum 35</a><br>

- Poor tripod attachment, lacking additional pockets, it's just sort of one large compartment.</p>

<p>Any help or advice would be appreciated!! Thanks in advance!!</p>

[Ed_Ingold]

<p>What does your loaded Photo Trekker weigh? My guess is a over 35 pounds as shown. I use a Photo Trekker to carry (consolodate) my Hasselblad kit, and also find it too heavy for practicality. It's the gear, however, not the bag, and a better frame may not help that much.</p>

<p>My solution was to pick three lenses (the mix varies) and one body with accessories, keeping the load to about 15 pounds. It fits easily into a Pro Mag II or Minitrekker, leaving my back and legs intact. Hiking in the Smokies, a 40, 60 and 120 (with extension rings) seems to do the trick. I would probably go longer in the open West.</p>

[ebokeh]

<p>Hi there Ed, thanks for the reply!<br /> <br /> i haven't had the opportunity to weigh it but i'm pretty sure that all loaded up it's near 40 with everything.<br /> I'm planning on most of my trips with this new configuration to be just as you're saying. Body, 2 - 4 lenses (max 4), meter, film, etc which would cut a bunch of the weight down.<br>

The thing about the photo trekker that i don't like is that the harnass is made of squishy foam which goes flat pretty quick (again, most likely due to weight). I also would like to be able to carry other things easily (clothes and food mainly) and the photo trekker doesn't allow for that very well.<br>

A couple of times i've pulled my extra 120 back and 350mm and crammed that compartment full of clothes. It works out ok but not great (and it's very limited).<br>

I recently put on a "proper" hiking pack of approximately the same footprint and weight of my photo trekker and it was much more comfortable and distributed the weight so much better onto my hips and shoulders that it made my mind up right then and there..</p>

[guido_h]

I usually hike with a regular (non-photo) backpack and a LowePro PhotoRunner belt pack attached to my waist in front.

 

The PhotoRunner holds my 501CM+80mm+ A12 back+PME prism+filters.

 

The backpack contains all hiking and camping gear, alongside with my extra lenses and extension rings packed in foam-padded lens cases, and the film rolls. The tripod attaches to the exterior, where the ice axe would normally go.

 

This allows me quick access to the camera for handheld shots in locations where it's inconvenient to unpack or set up a tripod, plus the comfort and features of a dedicated mountaineering backpack.

[paul_neuthaler]

<p>Who carrys that for you? My "pack" consists of 1 SWC/M w/lenshade hanging from a Hassie handstrap!</p>

[Ed_Ingold]

<p><em>Who carrys that for you? My "pack" consists of 1 SWC/M w/lenshade hanging from a Hassie handstrap!</em></p>

<p>What do you do if you need both hands while hiking? Most people don't carry an Hasselblad of any sort. That's the ultimate solution by this line of logic ;-)</p>

<p>Carrying cameras in the same pack as clothing and supplies poses a number of problems with regard to protection of the gear with organization and easy accessibility. The usual suggestion is to wrap everything inside socks or clothing, which addresses only the first. Thinktank and others make lightly padded belt pack containers and accessories which might do well inside the main backpack. You certainly don't want 15# of gear hanging from your belt.</p>

<p> </p>

[carlwakefield]

<p>John I find mine heavy, I have the same rucksack and load a Mamiy Rz67 a 65mm and 140mm lens light meter NDs and film. My tip is when you have the rucksac on the back use the hip strap as tight as you can and then realse the shoulder straps a couple of inches the weight is on the hips and not directly on the shoulders. The shoulder straps just top it falling back. This makes a big difference. I put my dog lead over the should and hang my tripod in the lead so it does not add to weight of the ruck shack, I find this helps I can also use the tripod as a walking aid for step decents. I would not carry more than three lenses. Luckly I only have two. Regards Carl</p>

[Aoresteen]

<p>John,<br>

I have more days under a rucksack that I care to remember as I've been in the Army Special Forces since 1980. You are facing the age old problem of carrying more than the body can handle. I have given up carring my Hasselbald as I just don't want to acrry the weight anymore.</p>

<p>I would get a pack that has an external frame. Internal frame packs work well but it's a matter of personal choice.</p>

<p>Get a MOLLE/PALS type ruck that will let you easily attach a smaller pack that holds your Hasselblad stuff. Look at Kifaru packs.<br>

<a href="https://www.kifaru.net/militarypacks.htm">https://www.kifaru.net/militarypacks.htm</a></p>

<p>Kifaru packs are not cheap but are worth every penny. </p>

 

[stever_max]

<p>I have a Hasselblad that I carry in a top loading pack. I do not like the packs that have a back that can let all the equipment spill on the ground.<br /> <br /> The pack I use, 750, puts the weight on the hips and holds my Hasselblad, the PME finder, four film backs, 50mm lens, 80mm lens, 150mm lens, 250mm lens, 2x extender, 8-16-32-55mm extension tubes, filters, film, tripod and filters.<br /> <br /> Take a look at <a href="http://www.tamrac.com/welcome.htm" target="_blank">http://www.tamrac.com/welcome.htm</a> and search by model number for 750 and 752.<br /> <br /> Model 750 Photographer's Daypack <br /> Internal Dimensions: 11¼ W x 6 D x 7 H<br /> 29 x 15 x 18 cm<br /> External Dimensions: 17⅜ W x 9½ D x 14⅞ H <br /> 44 x 24 x 38 cm<br /> Weight: 2 lbs. 10 oz. (1188 g)<br /> Colors: <img src="http://www.tamrac.com/images/s_black_txt.gif" border="0" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.tamrac.com/images/s_forestgreen_txt.gif" border="0" alt="" /> [<br /> The Photographer's Daypack was designed for one camera with attached lens and motor drive in Tamrac's patented <a href="http://javascript%3cb%3e%3c/b%3E:topWindow%28%27i_lensbridge05.htm%27%29" target="_blank">Lens-Bridge</a> ® with <a href="http://javascript%3cb%3e%3c/b%3E:topWindow%28%27i_lensgate05.htm%27%29" target="_blank">Lens-Gate</a> ® divider system. This bag looks and functions like a daypack, yet the lower half is a completely foam-padded and compartmentalized camera bag. Adjustable foam-padded compartments protect three to four lenses, a flash and accessories. Additional compartments and pockets provide organization and extra space for your travel requirements. The large, quick-release top flap provides complete coverage and has a weather-flapped, zippered pocket that is perfect for maps and tickets. The thick foam padded backpack harness is contoured to spread the weight across the shoulders and back. The quick-release sternum strap keeps the shoulder straps in place. A nylon Tuck-A-Way™ waist strap keeps the pack from bouncing and tucks into a bottom compartment when not in use. Adjustable straps hold a small tripod. Constructed of fully-coated PowerGrid™ Cordura®, the camera compartment is padded with thick, closed-cell foam and the bottom has a strong plastic platform beneath the foam. <br /> <br /> Model 752 Super Photo Daypack<br /> Internal Dimensions: 13 W x 6 D x 8 H<br /> 33 x 15 x 20 cm<br /> External Dimensions: 17 W x 9½ D x 16½ H<br /> 43 x 24 x 42 cm<br /> Weight: 3 lbs. 10 oz. (1644 g)<br /> Colors: <img src="http://www.tamrac.com/images/s_black_txt.gif" border="0" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.tamrac.com/images/s_forestgreen_txt.gif" border="0" alt="" /> <br /> The Super Photo Daypack is a larger, professional sized version of Tamrac's model 750 Photographer's Daypack. Safe, comfortable to carry and easy to use, this is the perfect camera bag for the traveling photographer with two camera bodies, four or five lenses and lots of accessories and personal items. It looks and functions like a daypack, yet the lower half is a completely foam-padded and compartmentalized camera bag. Additional compartments and pockets provide organization and extra space for your travel requirements. The large, quick-release top flap provides complete coverage and has a weather-flapped, zippered pocket that is perfect for maps and tickets. The thick, foam-padded backpack harness is contoured to spread the weight across the shoulders and back. A nylon Tuck-A-Way™ waist strap keeps the pack from bouncing and tucks into a bottom compartment when not in use. Adjustable straps hold a small tripod. Constructed of fully-coated PowerGrid™ Cordura®, the camera compartment is padded with thick, closed-cell foam and the bottom has a strong plastic platform beneath the foam. <br /> <br /> I hope this helps you.<br>

Now that I have bought a Hasselblad 903 SWC, I have to figure out how to carry that too. I should have bought the 752 pack!<br>

Steve</p>

[schristian1]

<p>Try this <a href="http://www.photobackpacker.com/home.asp">http://www.photobackpacker.com/home.asp</a>. They are about to come out with cases for medium format.</p>

[jeff_drew4]

<p>2 makers that I am already using for medium format, in addition to Tamrac & Pelican, are Kata Bags and Case Logic. Case Logic has introduced a few new logic carry bags, but they tend toward the DSLR configurations. I have a few Kata bags already, including a "rucksack" and Kata makes terrific packs for cameras. Unfortunately, hauling all my crap in one pack has gotten me wiser finally, and I am scaling back. My Hassy kit is thinning and a smaller bag is in the works. www.kata-bags.com is the site. BTW: they make military grade packs as well.</p>

[ebokeh]

<p>Thanks so much for your responses everyone, they're very much appreciated! i'm pretty impressed by the kifaru bags, it'd be really great if there were a place i could check one out in person. the one i'm most interested in is the X-RAY, but it looks like there would be a lot of options there.<br /> Here's what i've done for now - it will work out quite well but, like anything, will take some getting used to. I have an Osprey Kestrel 48 (<a href="http://www.ospreypacks.com/Packs/KestrelSeriesTorsoAdjustable/Kestrel48/">link</a> ) and i've packed my camera gear into various Lowe-Pro cases:<br /> <a href="http://products.lowepro.com/product/Inverse-100-AW,2100,7.htm">Lowe-Pro Inverse 100</a> :</p>

<ul>

<li>-Hasselblad 500c/m, 120 Back, 80mmCF</li>

<li>- Pentax Digital Spot Meter</li>

<li>- Cable Release, Bubble Level, Dark Slide, Extra Battery for meter. Hasselblad Filters:29A, 25A, 6sND, Linear Polarizer, Yellow, Orange </li>

</ul>

<p><a href="http://products.lowepro.com/product/Lens-Case-1W,1950,11.htm">Lowe-Pro Lens Case 1W</a> : (x1)</p>

<ul>

<li>Hasselblad 40mm CF</li>

</ul>

<p><a href="http://products.lowepro.com/product/Lens-Case-1,1946,11.htm">Lowe-Pro Lens Case LC1</a> : (x2)</p>

<ul>

<li>Hasselblad 50mmCF, 150mmCF</li>

</ul>

<p><a href="http://products.lowepro.com/product/Lens-Case-2,1951,11.htm">Lowe-Pro Lens Case LC2</a> : (x1)</p>

<ul>

<li>Hasselblad 250mmCF</li>

</ul>

<p><a href="http://products.lowepro.com/product/SlipLock-Pouch-60-AW,2041,43.htm">Lowe-Pro SlipLock Case 60AW</a> : (x1)</p>

<ul>

<li>Hasselblad Proshade w/ Bay60, 250mm Mask and 120/150mask</li>

<li>2 Pro Packs of 120 film (10 rolls)</li>

</ul>

<p>The Lowe-Pro lens case all fit the Hasselblad lenses very well. There's a grey area to be found between secure and too-secure. The price you pay is that in some cases they're a snug fit so you have to be careful of the plastic levers on the CF lenses (DoF particularly). In general none have much if any movement once in the case and zipped up.</p>

<p>The Kestrel 48 pack lets me pack all of the above with a bit of extra room in the main pack for clothes or food etc, definitely enough for an over-night stay. The pack is hydration pack capable and I have a 2 litre Camelbak installed. I can attach my Gitzo 1228 to the back of the pack no problem. Overall the pack is very comfortable all loaded up. This gear is well within the weight requirements of the pack and using the Lowe-Pro containers the camera equipment is about as well protected as it was in my <a href="http://products.lowepro.com/product/Photo-Trekker-AW-II,1992,14.htm">Photo Trekker AWII</a> but much more comfortable!</p>

<p>The only thing i couldn't find the appropiate container for was my Hasselblad 350mmCF. I do have room for it in the pack though should i find the right lens protection. It's seldom used though so it shouldn't be too big a deal to go without.</p>

<p>The great thing about this is that i can take everything or just a subset of gear very easily. The pack's compression straps make it really easy to recover the absent space if i leave some lenses out. I can also take the Inverse 100 solo if i choose, with just the camera, 80mm and meter. 1 or more of the other lens cases attach to the Inverse for a short walk too.</p>

<p>I'm going to be breaking this all in in a week or so in the field, i'll try to remember to report back on my experience.</p>

<p>-john (<a href="http://www.ebokeh.com">ebokeh.com</a> )</p>

<p>UPDATE: For those interested - the cost of the Osprey Pack + all listed lowe-pro components + camelbak bladder is almost exactly the cost of the Photo Trekker AWII pack (within $40 of retail). There are definitely deals to be had on all of the above which should wash out depending on which way you would want to go.</p>