Kata R-103 GDC Rucksack
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Category: Digital Camera
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Digital product summary information
Model: KT R-103Product features:
- Comfortable backpack can accommodate SLR with attached 300mm lens or large DV camcorder
- Two outside pockets, two detachable interior mesh pockets, and a laptop compartment
- Main compartment stores the camera in the center; quick draw via small top opening flap
- Exterior made of highly durable, waterproof TST (Thermo Shield Technology)
- Padded shoulder strap, detachable hip belt
Digital camera reviews of Kata R-103 GDC Rucksack
Digital camera Review: Worth it
Summary: 4 Stars
Before buying the KATA R-103 I had a separate portfolio attache for my laptop and a holster case with a modular attachment for a DSLR with an 18-70 kit lens and an 80-200 lens. It was incredibly tiring and painful to carry so many bags whenever I traveled.
Now I carry my DSLR with the 80-200 lens attached, the 18-70 lens, spare camera batteries, a camera battery charger, rocket blower, CF card reader, lens pen, notebook and notebook charger, MP3 player and headphones all together in the KATA R-103 with some space leftover....a big relief for me and my back.
The bag is built tough, made out of military grade nylon and the exterior has segments made out of waterproof Thermo Shield bumpers - to absorb impact during movement and protect the equipment inside. It has large textured zip grips which make it easier to pull the zippers down. The bag's shoulder straps are comfortable,easily adjustable and provide upper back support.
It is designed with 3 access/ storage zones. A rear zone for the laptop, the middle zone where all your photography equipment is kept and a front access zone which gives you quick access to your camera and the attached lens only. Inside it the padding and velcro dividers are bright yellow , which makes it easier to find your equipment in low light conditions. You can customize the velcro dividers in the middle access zone to suit your packing style / equipment requirements.
It also comes with a Kata 2 sided waterproof cover that you can use during rain to protect the bag. Or reverse it and use as a reflector. With regards to the notebook fit, I've only tried it with a 13 inch notebook but 15 inches shouldn't be a problem. I don't think a 17 inch notebook would fit though.
Cons - I wish it was more spacious inside and the front external side pockets were more useful. And it definitely needs to come with a better set of instructions, the ones included with the bag are rubbish for understanding how to use the accessories that come with the bag and how to attach the accessory straps.
200 dollars for a bag is not cheap but in this case the product and it's utility justify the price. If you have equipment worth 2000 to 3000 dollars (DSLR + LENS + LENS + NOTEBOOK + etc etc) 200 dollars for rock solid protection and daily comfort is not a lot of money in relation to the cost of the equipment enclosed within and the relief it gives to your back. It took me a while to choose a bag, but in the end, the R-103 was definitely worth it.
Summary of Kata R-103 GDC Rucksack
The Kata R-103 GDC Rucksack can be configures as a photo or video backpack. The ergonomic harness includes a cushioning and shock absorbing system, which allows for optimal ventilation, weight distribution and 5-point adjustment mechanism. It includes a well-padded dividing set, which allows you to organize it to fit your requirements, and two detachable mesh pouches. Additional accessories, tapes, batteries, filters, charger, cables and personal essentials can be stored in the spacious arched lid compartment, the 2 outside pockets and the central mesh/vinyl pocket. The design gives quick, separate access to the camcorder in the central compartment, while the rest of the equipment surrounding it remains secure. The R-103 includes a TST tripod holder with its connecting V shape device and an upper adjustable strap (the tripod can be carried on the central part of the Rucksack or on one of the sides). Special camera straps can be attached to the D rings on the harness and will take the camera load off your neck (they can be turned into a regular camera strap by connecting to the provided extender). A detachable hip belt can be connected to the bottom back loops that are designated to attach the backpack to the Kata EPH system. Full protection on the main zipper and cover make sure your sensitive equipment is well protected from the elements.Accessories
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