Question about BlackRapid Straps...

[NFLD Stephen]

Thanks for the replies!

@John - Good to hear it dosn't interfere with another pack. It would really reduce its value to me if this was not possible.... I do currently use the Manfrotto RC2 system. I also read your post on using the arca-swiss system with the BR straps, but I'm not quite ready to switch to arca-swiss yet (maybe when I get some longer lenses with tripod attachments...) but it's good to hear I have options when I do make the switch.

@Rich - I'm not sure that I would wear the strap over my right shoulder anyway, but I'm a southpaw so sometimes I do things backwards.... The clik elite chest carrier seems similar to the lowepro toploader bag I have. The lowepro is primarily designed to sling over a shoulder, but mine came with a harness so it could be worn on the chest (the clik elite may be a better / more comfortable fit though, since it is designed for this from the ground-up). I agree that this provides better protection and still gives good camera access. However at this point I'm looking for something that keeps my camera out-and-ready all the time when hiking, walking, etc. As for skiing, this is more a secondary use. I'm not sure I would ski with it on all the time, but for short periods when I'm taking shots of something in particular (ie my wife or chasing some wildlife, etc.) In this instance I would just want the camera to stay mostly out of the way and (hopefully not bounce around too much) but still accessible. Since you have both the RS-5 and Sport, which do you find better? Are there many differences between them?

On another note, I also like the think tank backpack connection kit, but for a different reason: it looks like it could work with a larger backpack. I'm thinking it might work with my larger backpack for overnight or multi-night backpacking trips. I may have to look into this for the future....

@thekingb - Thanks for the further info. I would have thought also that the BR strap would be better under the backpack as you wear it, but I guess it could depend on the specific backpack and what each person finds more comfortable.

Stephen

[icanon]

On another note, I also like the think tank backpack connection kit, but for a different reason: it looks like it could work with a larger backpack. I'm thinking it might work with my larger backpack for overnight or multi-night backpacking trips. I may have to look into this for the future....


Stephen

I have the think tank connection kit and it works great. I also have a home made version which also works great and still use all the time. I get asked often by people where did I get it and I tell them I made it myself. I'm not home now be will post a few pics here if you guys like me to?

[Richard Lane]

Thanks for the replies!

Since you have both the RS-5 and Sport, which do you find better? Are there many differences between them?

Stephen

I would definitely recommend the RS-Sport, ther is no question about it. The RS-5 tends to slide around up and down your shoulder, especially if you kneel down, lean forward or bend over. The RS-Sport stays put and comes with two bumper stops for in front of the camera and the other one for behind the camera. There is an underarm adapter available separtely for the RS-5 to help it stay in place, which looks like a good solution. I don't think the extra pockets on the RS-5 would work well with a backpack as the extra padding will get in the way of the backpacks shoulder straps.

There is also a newer RS-Sport2 version which is a little thinner and less bulky along the shoulder than the original RS-Sport. So, this may be more comfortable when used in conjunction with the shoulder straps on a backpack. The newer version is also less bulky to stow away (keep in mind I've never used the version 2 model).

Rich