What Slingshot for my DSLR?

[Simko]

Hey everyone, sold my computrekker, the thing was just too big, having my laptop recently stolen, seemed like i didnt need the laptop pouch.

I like the look of the slingshot bags, and the feature of being able to flip it to the front without the stabilizer band buckled. However, I have seen the flipside bags, which offer some security with the hidden zipper, but theres no quick camera access. Two bags that combine the two features are the primus, and primus minimus, both are somewhat out of my price range ( unless i find a deal). So if im sticking with a slingshot, what size would be my best fit?

Ive got a Eos Rebel XSI, and plan on getting a EF-S 55-250mm lens, which should be my largest,

I want to carry the 55-250 attached to my camera, my 18-55 lens in the bag also.

My question is, which slingshot do i need for this? the 200? or the 300? or larger?

thanks

-Aaron

[TheWengler]

I used to have the Slingshot 100AW. I was able to get my K100D mounted to the 16-45mm f/4 in there along with at 70-300mm f/4-5.6and a 50mm f/1.4. I remember it being a little tight when trying to get the K100D mounted to the 70-300mm in the bag. I'd say the 200 is probably a good fit.

[Simko]

Thanks Wengler!

Im going to hit the local store to do some fitting and see what i like.

I like the slingshot, However ive seen the flipside and i really like the idea of the hidden zipper, theft always worries me. I really like the Primus, and primus minimus (for the same hidden zipper, and quick side access, however they are $$$$$)

If anyone has any non lowepro suggestions let me know.

[jekostas]

Well, if you like the rear-zipper type bags, Crumpler makes a few (ex. Whickey and Cox, Karachi Outpost, Keystone). While you'll pay a considerable price premium for them, I've only heard very good reviews of Crumpler bags, and they have the added bonus of looking absolutely nothing like a camera bag (for at least a little more security).

Personally, I have a Flipside 200 now and quite like the bag. If you're worried about changing a lens out quickly, you could get the Flipside and a Lens case or accessory bag for the attachment straps for your favourite second lens.

Edit: Also, the Kata 3-in-1 series gets good reviews, and it can be configured like a backpack (similar to the Lowepro Fastpack) or like a sling-type (like the Slingshot). It also has the added bonus of having opening flaps on both sides, so you can configure the sling on the right or the left.

[gilly]

Yeah I had a Slingshot 100 and moved to the Fastpack200. Still able to take the camera out while the packs on one shoulder like the Slingshot, but this ones got a heap more room and is sooo much more comfortable with weight in there all day. No regrets here.

If going for the slingshot at least go the 200.

[Simko]

Im not concerned about speedy lense switching, i just like the idea of being able to access the camera without taking the bag off, and the idea of the "hidden" zipper.

The primus sort of has both options, i guess it will be best if i can see all the bags in person

[GaryS]

Yes, I have the 200 and I think it is the right size. I can have my XTi with the Canon 70-300 mounted no problem (or my current Sigma 50-150). Plus space to store the 10-20, 50mm, 18-50 and a flash. Perfect!

[toriaj]

You're right, seeing the bags in person makes the most difference. Actually take your camera and lenses and try packing them in there. Then try on the bag. It will tell you a lot.

I have the Slingshot 200 and I love it. It comfortably fits my D50, flash, and all four lenses, along with some other stuff I wouldn't need to keep in there (battery charger, lens pen, etc.) I can wear it all day and not notice the weight. I can climb over fences, jump from rock to rock, etc. and everything stays put :)

When I was trying it out in the store, I liked the configuration of the Tamrac Velocity series even better than the Slingshot. However, it does not fit most women very well. So if you're a man, I'd definitely take a look at the Velocity series.

[seanhoxx]

I have the AW300 for my Sony A700 and the Tamron 70-200 2.8 attached fits fine in the bag, plenty of room for extra glass, and odds and ends, a great bag, the downside maybe to big, it is thick and does stick out pretty good while on your back, and as human nature goes if you got the space you will fill it! When I packed in ecerything i could fut into the bag to see I had EVERYTHING you could need in the field and a bag that weighed just under 20 pounds! Thats a lot of crap and weight for a soccer game, or a walk in the park. I am thinking about keeping the 300 as my carry all storage bag and then a smaller Tamrac velocity bag for the camera with one lens and a extra, and extra battery for the 'walking' bag.

[nism]

i've got a 300AW
i have to admit i'm not a massive fan of it. when you start loading gear into it, the one strap nature of the design makes the package feel imbalanced to me.
i always find myself constantly adjusting.
so i'm looking for a replacement.

[Csae]

The Slingshot series are designed with one strap on the left shoulder, and a little connected strap around, i prefer to pass my head through the loop and let the main strap rest on my right shoulder for more comfort but less accessability.

I prefered the 100AW to the 200 or 300, because this isn't meant to carry large heavy gear, when you reach the 200AW series and your fully loading it, you're pushing its limits and it quickly becomes uncomfortable.

I still keep the bag for light carry when i dont need to carry all my gear, and would recommend it as such or to a starter.

[d0od]

I have the 200, I carry my Nikon D90 w/kit lens, flash, 50mm lens, and other misc goodies. After an hour or so it starts to get really heavy on that one shoulder. I like the swing around accesability of it, and I will cinch up the strap w/ the bag up front to rest my elbows on to steady myself, but if I was getting it again I would get the next one up with the waist support.