The Velocity 9 - Pro Sling Pack is a larger version of our popular Photo Sling Pack. It can be carried comfortably like a backpack, but can be swung around to the front to provide quick access to a pro-sized 35mm or digital SLR like a Nikon F5 and D1 or Canon’s EOS 1V and 1D with a 200mm zoom lens attached. A well-padded sling strap comfortably distributes the weight, but need not be removed to quickly access photo equipment. Outside, a large mesh pocket is ideal for carrying an energy bar or water bottle, while organizer pockets inside keep a mobile phone, PDA, or photo accessories within reach. A smooth nylon pocket inside the lid stores filters. Compatible with Tamrac’s Modular Accessory System™ components to customize this pack with Tamrac accessories.
pro-sized 35mm or digital SLR like a Nikon F5 and D1 or Canon’s EOS 1V and 1D with a 200mm zoom lens
The V9 compared to my Domke bag. Despite appearances, the V9 is much more compact. The Domke holds more, is more flexible, and stands up on its own. The lobster keeps cats from sleeping on my camera bag.... Top Flap. I'm keeping CF cards in the top flap. Seems more secure than other spots..... My son is about 5'10" tall. Naturally, the wide angle shot makes the bag seem bigger than it really is..... thanks to Dean Zatkowsky for photos/comments
Each is separated by the included foam flaps so they don't hit each other As you can see a very versatile bag!
The Velocity 9 is a sling-type bag that also features the slip-lock system for added expandability when needed. I've noticed when the extra acessories are added to the sides the slinging around doesn't work so well and the pack isn't as stable on the back when carrying it. Another nice construction feature is that the bag is not molded so it can somewhat "morph" to the equipment that is in the bag. I have had this bag for a few months now so I've used it in different conditions for shooting. One of the main things that I liked was the ability to have all my lenses with hoods reversed on the lenses, except for the 16-35L. Even though you can pack this bag to the gills in a relatively small package there is a trade off. Once you start stacking equipment in the main compartment it becomes a chore trying to get what you need and change lenses at the same time. You almost need an assistant if something is on the bottom of the bag. You have to go through the velcro dividers to get to what you want so someone else might have to hold the camera. On the positive side, like I mentioned before, you can carry a lot in the bag. As for carrying the bag, when it is slung around it is very comfortable except in the condition that I mentioned above. The bag sits right in the middle of the back and does not seem to protrude too badly. Everytime I wear a pack it seems as if I'm hitting someone or something if I try to turn around. If worn slung to one shoulder/side it is a little akward and almost opens upside down when brought forward to get something out. Other than that I liked the bag. Now that I have all three of these bags I still can't decide which one I lile the most. I think that I will be getting rid of my Computrekker consideing I have a Pelican case that I can use to store my other equipment I'm not using. I like the Adventure 9 for all the extras that it can carry, the Slingshot because it's easy to get to the stuff that you need and the Velocity for the fact that it's very adaptable. I might end up taking 2 of the three bags when I go on my Italy trip..... So much for traveling light! Overall I've been gravitating towards the Slingshot for my daily carry, but I haven't been out and about with the Adventure 9 yet. Maybe I'll post more info when I do take it out more.
-Smallest of the three bags -Bag can pack a lot of stuff including the infamous 70-200IS mounted and unmounted with the grip -Can be slung around without taking it off -Nice carrying handle on top
-Items have to be stacked in the case -Slip lock cases on the side make it unstable to work with somethimes -Does not like to sit upright when set on the ground
Here are a couple pictures of the gear outside of the bag... In the first image you can see the 24-70 is in the left compartment now (sitting above the flash) and in the second image you can see the Mark II N and the ef 2x II teleconverter in the bag now on top of the padded cushion flaps (resting above the flashes). The first picture is of the small zipper inside the main flap which is where I store my off the shoe cord, and in the main zipper compartment is where I store cleaning supplies, spare NP-E2 battery and compact flash cards. Ok here are the last 2 pictures... The first is of the outside of the bag fully loaded, frontal view with the top flap shut and the second is a profile shot of the bag fully loaded with the gear. Thanks to matt (20dshooter) for photos/comments.
