Anyone modify bags ? especially Domke F-6

[TMLee]

sorry guys ... another bag thread ....

Trying to revive my interest in photography of late.
I was using a Domke F-5XB olive canvas for some time but find it too tight for what I like to carry along with me. Gear plus stuff (notebook, wallet , keys pencil, water ?).

And for a long time searching for an alternative bigger bag, I finally took the plunge and bought an F-6. (low profile , not too deep, accessible to all gear directly)
But I have been thinking for the longest time about how to modify it. Sketching ideas etc.

In particular, there are 2 aspects of the modification i am mulling over :

1) How the bag functions
Some pet peeves include
a) missing swivel buckle for the shoulder strap which I find great on the F-5XB. (Just grab and go and the strap rights itself.)
b) the metal closing clasp which I find painful to use. Sharp edges and needing deft fingerwork (thinking of replacing with quick release buckles)
c) i am just worried things can drop out thru the bag ends when the flap is closed. (the zip on the F-5XB is excellent but it scratches esp when you carry more than a body and 2 lenses)

2) How the gear is stored inside the bag.
I want to retrieve my gear directly so I don't think i want to stack gear on top another

Question is ,
A) do any of you guys modify your bags in these 2 aspects ?
(It would be helpful if its an F-6, but i guess its Ok if its other bags cos i just need ideas.)
What are some modifications you made and why ?

B) has anyone redesign/replaced the inserts in the F-6 to carry your particular gear combo?
(I am thinking of sewing the inserts myself. The inserts would be removable and configurable - allowing for light days when less gear is carried and also for more ambitious occasions.)

Tks in advance 🙂

rgds
TMLee

 

[back alley]

i have wondered about the strap on the f6 also. it would be great to have the same set up as on the 5xb, then you could exchange straps for different lengths etc.
i prefer the metal clasp to a plastic quick release, i hate them.
never had anything fall out of any bag.
i use a varity of domke inserts for most of my bags, domke or not.

 

[robinsonphotography]

At first I hated those metal clasps too, now I love them though. They've loosened over time, and they're very sturdy--no problem now to get them with one hand.

As far as things falling out, I've never had that happen. I've even had to hop down ledges, climb up things, etc. with the bag, and nothing has fallen out (often with the flap open too).

It's a great bag, love mine!