BlackRapid Classic (RS-4) Strap Ballistic Nylon Camera Strap, Black

2014-07-21T21:00:00

I previously owned the RS-5 cargo strap and love it and I can't see how the RS-4 would impress any less. I am a wedding photographer and shoot the day with 2 camera bodies. I didn't want to buy the dual camera strap, so I bought this RS-4 and am using the BRAD mod (there is better, but it's what I have) to keep the RS-4 and RS-5 straps together at my back at the shoulder blades as a make-shift dual camera sling. This works well enough, but maybe not as well as a dedicated dual camera strap. However, I can separate them as needed. Only drawback is that the straps are sort of ugly. I suppose because I dress in all black, the RS-5 cargo pocket, and the prominent Black Rapid logo, guests seem to always comment that I look like an officer.

JONATHAN J.

2014-02-17T19:00:00

Works great. Snaps and strap material are a little cheesier than I expected. This would be an outstanding value for $30...

Robert D.

2013-09-23T21:00:00

I shoot a lot of sporting events from football, wrestling, through Lacrosse. Each event will last from 2 hours to as long as a whole day (wrestling tournaments). So, carrying my D7000 with a 70-200/f2.8 lens around my neck was taxing to say the least. Investing on a sling after years of neck and back strain was essential. I did a substantial amount of research just to pick the right sling. I do that with everything I buy. I'm not a compulsive buyer. My family and friends will tell you I research/study everything I spend money on to death before making a purchase. The BlackRapid Classic was a perfect purchase. I compared it to Joby, Tamarac, and others. Hands down this was the top. Here are my reasons: 1) Its wide shoulder strap with a small zippered compartment was just right. It wasn't bulky. It didn't cut into my shoulder and distributed the weight of the camera/lens accordingly. 2) Sliding the camera/lens from my side to a ready (shooting) position and back was effortless. 3) The metal connector and fastener to the camera is sturdy and very secure. I don't feel insecure about coming loose or breaking when running around getting in position for my next shot. 4) Adjustments and stops are easy and quick With the many accessories it makes the strap/sling expandable. Almost modular. The only draw was the price. Great product! Highly recommended!

Chet's V.

2013-09-09T21:00:00

Works as advertised

bill

2013-08-26T21:00:00

It is certainly better than the original strap that came with my Nikon! I no longer feel that the camera might fall from my shoulder if I bend down or lean over for something. It is sturdy and comfortable, and easy to adjust to your desired length.

Cool B.

2013-06-22T21:00:00

The zipper on the memory card pocket always came open with the slightest nudge. It felt uncomfortable when walking rapidly and tended to swing into the way. It's fine for a casual stroll. The pad would slip forward or backward off my shoulder, that was annoying. I retuned it for a refund.

HUGH S.

2013-06-10T21:00:00

great strap little pricey but extremely good and well made

freesetter

2013-05-20T21:00:00

The zipper on the memory card pouch easily unzipped. That was very frustrating. My lens would bump into things and people in crowded places making my lens ( 24-70mm,f/2.8 with lens hood ) vulnerable to damage. It was fine for casual strolling but unwieldy when hiking. I find my good old neck strap to be much more stable and controllable.

HUGH S.

2013-04-24T21:00:00

Researched several straps but decided on the Black Rapid. I was tired of using the original strap that came with my Nikon D600 -- hanging on my neck in front was uncomfortable -- when the strap arrived, I completely removed the neck strap and installed the Black Rapid. It took a few minutes to figure out how to adjust the strap but now it works very well and because it fits over your head, it's very secure. It is a bit bulky but the comfort makes up for that.

Ed

2013-03-17T21:00:00

As soon as I adjusted the strap and mounted my camera, I knew this was an excellent product. The strap is strong and well constructed. The hardware is all metal and the strap is strong nylon. The strap rests securely on my left shoulder and my camera dangles at my right hip completely out of harm's way. Access is a quick grab and my camera is up to my eye ready for action. The shoulder pad is very comfortable. It has a pocket for memory cards or other small objects that I will not likely use. In summary this is an excellent product that provides more comfort and security than a neck strap for your DSLR.

Joseph W.

2013-02-15T19:00:00

After years of using the camera strap supplied with my DSLR camera bodies, I decided my neck needed a break and purchased the BlackRapid RS4. After the first day of using it, I was hooked. Carrying the camera (especially when using a heavy lens) is no longer a burden. Its weight is supported by my shoulder and the camera rests comfortably on a hip until I'm ready to use it. I worried about the fastener coming loose from the tripod socket - but I have yet to experience it. The strap is well built, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed.

Sean S.

2011-08-10T21:00:00

I used my Black Rapid strap while traveling through Vietnam, Cambodia, and Loas. I liked not having a strap around my neck in a hot climate. It's lift and shot ease helped me get the shots of a lifetime. My fellow travel buddies all tried it out too!

Milehighgirl

2011-08-10T21:00:00

Most people use the strap that comes with their camera, but the RS-4 is a more comfortable way to carry. It eliminates the strain on your neck and is much more secure than just slinging the default strap over your shoulder, yet it's still very easy to shoot with. The strap connects via carabiner to an eye bolt that screws into your tripod socket; you MUST remember to twist-lock the carabiner. I don't think the manufacturer sufficiently emphasizes this. It's dangerous because it holds just fine when unlocked, but there's no guarantee it won't be accidentally released. Also, with the camera at your hip, you need to be careful walking near walls and around corners, especially with a telephoto. Just because it's more comfortable doesn't mean you should forget it's there. If you often use a tripod you may want to think about having your tripod socket taken up by this strap, but it's really not much effort to remove it. Other than those things, it seems like a pretty well made product and I was glad to have it on a recent trip. Less importantly, the neck strap is kind of a tourist cliche, so this thing just looks better.

MATTHEW H.