Kata R-103 GDC Rucksack

This thing fits all my gear & fells very comfortable 2 wear, even 4 long periods of time.

I have a 28-80, 70-300, 50, a Kiron lens roughly the same size as the 70-300, a 40d, lens hoods, battery charger, straps, filters, cleaning supplies, etc in this. I usually keep the 70-300 on the camera in the center. In & out without issue.

One complaint is the tripod holder. It doesn't seem "right". They list two methods 2 mount the tripod (on the side & on the front of the pack, right over the quick in/out). It seems like it will work, but the strap they provide seems 2 be the wrong strap. It doesn't hold tight & instead slowly releases. I imagine contacting the manufacturer would quickly resolve this, however I haven't done so yet. I've used a small bungee cord 2 hold it tight & it works great.

Besides that minor complaint, this is the best constructed bag I've ever seen. I was hesitant 2 order as I'd never heard of the line, but alas, it's worked far better than expected.

I wont go into detail about this bag, just read the other reviews. I wanted 2 comment that I got mine with a free Reflex-E camera strap. You can check it out a kata-bags.com, here is a link, http://kata-bags.com/product.asp?p_Id=406&Version=Photo So far I am very happy with the bag & strap, the strap is much better then the supplied Nikon strap. The relex-E is soft & stretches just enough 2 absorb some of the shock of wearing a camera & walking. The card that came with the strap said 4 a limited time while supplies last, so if you looking 2 get this bag go 4 it & hopefully you will get a free strap also.

this thing says quality all over! it's really, really tough on the outside (the company makes bulletproof vests & other protective gear), but soft & well padded on the inside (uses a velcro system so you can arrange how you want your gear laid out). the bag alone weighs 3.7 lbs but with all of my gear it comes 2 about 22+ lbs!!!

if you're wondering what can fit in there here is what i put in the rucksack:

d700 plus mb-d10 grip, 2x ms-d10, 1 en-el3e battery chamber
50mm 1.4D
85mm 1.4D
14-24mm 2.8G
24-70mm 2.8G
70-200mm 2.8G
sb-900 plus case with the included accesories
expodisc, polarizer, 2x en-el3e & other accesories

The construction is rugged, stylish & well through off. I have my 40D with 70-200 f/4 IS lens + 17-85 & & many small items like filters, batteries, charger, Flash cards in my bag & yet it feels very light.

Little inconvenience: I felt the documents supplied with the bag added little 2 no value in understanding the straps & attachments, but Kata's customer service responded very promptly via email with better documents (but by then I figured it myself).

You can't go wrong with this.

I was surprised at the size of the backpack, somehow not thinking it would have the storage space that it does. I fit a large Toshiba laptop, 2 Canon HDV camcorders, a microphone, & some extra gear in it.

It replaced a laptop backpack & a smaller camcorder carrying case. Much more convenient having one bag 4 both.

One thing I wish it had was a pouch on the outside 4 easily accessed storage 4 items like a wallet, keys, etc. The 2 small pouches on the side were just not big enough 4 something like that.

The bag is well-constructed, sturdy & gives great protection 4 the gear inside. The dividers are velcro-laden 2 give you some ability 2 customize.

It came with a plethora of straps & little baggies, & it was a mystery as 2 what they were 4 until I checked them out a bit.

I have yet 2 travel with it, but plan 2 in late November, 2008. It will be nice 2 have a single carry-on & not have 2 debate checking my laptop or cameras.

If I even need another bag, Kata will be where I start my search.

Highly recommended.

The compact R-103 is designed 2 hold DV camcorders. Additional accessories, tapes, batteries, filters, charger, cables & personal essentials can be stored in the spacious arched lid compartment, the 2 outside pockets & the central mesh/vinyl pocket. The special design gives quick, separate access 2 the camcorder in the central compartment, while the rest of the equipment surrounding it remains secure. The R-103's ergonomic harness includes a unique cushioning & shock absorbing system, which allows 4 optimal ventilation, weight distribution & 5-point adjustment mechanism. The R-103 includes a well-padded dividing set, which allows you 2 organize it 2 fit your requirements. In addition, the R-103 includes a TST tripod holder with its connecting V shape device & an upper adjustable strap (the tripod can be carried on the central part of the Rucksack or on one of the sides). Especially designed Camera Straps can be attached 2 the D rings on the harness & will take the camera load off your neck (they can be turned into a regular camera strap by connecting 2 the provided extender). A detachable hip belt can be connected 2 the bottom back loops that are designated 2 attach the R-103 2 KATA's EPH system. Full protection on the main zipper & KATA's unique cover make sure your sensitive equipment is well protected from the elements.