Awesome bag for rangefinder kit!

no love for Lowepro?

no love for Lowepro?

Since it doesn't seem important that it NOT look like a camera bag, I'll put in a word for the Lowepro 160AW. It has reasonable internal foam cushioning, has the right height (8.7 in external) so you can get to the equipment easily, and the best part is that the top flap opens towards your body as it hangs by your side, to make it more difficult for prying eyes and hands to get near your equipment.

I use it to carry a Zeiss Ikon+lens (on its side, or portrait mode), and two spare lens, each in their own (adjustable) compartment. It has a limited internal compartment, but a larger external zippered compartment.

If you don't mind the Lowepro label, I think a perfect fit for a walkaround kit. Not much room for anything else, maybe 4 rolls of film and some filters, but what more do you need?
 
what you have achieved here is a great idea. Timbuk2 have already gone down this path with their Timbuk2 Snoop bag (http://www.timbuk2.com/tb2/products/messenger/messenger-camera/snoop-camera-messenger) which looks very much like a similar set up. I have the small version and works great. I use it for my entire kit of M9, 5 lenses and accessories. Great for travelling but I find it a bit heavy to use it when shooting and so prefer the Domke 5XB.
 
What kind of size is that? Hardly smaller than my old K & H i guess (23x16x16 cm). Takes one body, 5 small lenses with hoods, 3 batteries, 6 SD cards and one body cap.
 
Thanks for review and idea. Are the bags mentioned REALLY rainproof? Thats a must for any doing outdoor photography...
 
My camera bag follows a similar design...

The Hadley insert fits perfectly into the laptop sleeve of this bag.

I still hanker after a full on Billingham though!

J.
 
thanks for posting. will try this one day.

liked your other reviews on site also.

edit: btw. bag thread but no comment from Joe ?? :p
 
I've used a similar setup for the past couple of years. Works great for one camera and a couple of lenses plus film, etc.

The only difference is I use a Tenba insert which fits equally well but only costs $20. Padding looks thinner than the Hadley based on the pictures but it's plenty padded for my needs and it is a camera insert after all. http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/509016-REG/Tenba_638_251_Pro_Digital_2_0_Photo.html

As for Timbuk2 bags, I have nothing but good things to say. Infinitely customizable to your tastes. A great all around messenger bag. Also made in the U.S. for those that care.
 
I use a Domke single insert in a Jack ***** bag. Personally I don't like the insert to take over the bag so I can't put anything else in. Usually, I'm just carrying a Leica with an attached lens and maybe a second lens which conveniently fits in the little pocket of the bag. I can also stuff a light jacket in or some small things I pick up during a day of wandering.

I'd love a better made, small, single compartment insert. The Domke one has no bottom padding so I cut up a mouse pad and put it in the bottom. But the stitching is coming apart and it's actually pretty poorly made. It was also about $15.
 
So my ThinkTank Retro 5 has arrived. I have been using it and adjusting it extensively all week with a variety of gear. I am definitely going to have some interesting things to say about it.
 
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