Kata 3N1-35 PL Sling Backpack, Black

2013-11-11T19:00:00

The KATA 3N1-35 camera backpack really fills the bill for a quality, versatile, configurable backpack/slingpack. The build quality is excellent. Ripstop shell is a good choice and I found no loose stitching, gaps or puckers in the construction. I wish the zippers were a little 'beefier.' They open and close ok now but I'd feel more secure having a heavier zipper all around. Backpack is less than 4.5 lbs empty. Access to gear is through opening panels on both sides of the pack as well as through the front. The side panels open using a convenient one-handed grip-as long as you remember to leave a small tab exposed. The top compartment can be used for extra gear or for items like lunch, rain parka, etc. The 3N1-35 is spacious enough to accommodate a Nikon D800 with a 7-200 f/2.8 attached plus 3-4 lenses and a flash. A compartment in the back accommodates a 15.4" laptop. I personally wouldn't haul a laptop out in the field but it's possible. As a backpack, the load/weight is low due to most of the gear being contained in the bottom compartment. Shoulder straps offer some adjustment in how high the backpack rides. Stowable waist belt helps to distribute weight off the shoulders. Quick release buckles on belt and shoulder straps make getting the backpack on or off very easy. A sternum strap on the shoulder straps might be a nice addition to future designs. The provided rain cover is a good thing. I wish it were somehow attached or stowable on the backpack. It's too easily lost. The supplied tripod accessory is okay, but it can't be used when the rain cover is in place. I would replace the buckle strap to a strap utilizing a QR buckle. Good value. Solid build. Good features. Can use some minor tweaks in the design. Recommend to shooters who hike or walk a lot with a modest amount of gear.

Island S.

2013-05-27T21:00:00

Holds all my "stuff" with ease and leaves some space. Two bodies, one with battery pack, plus 5 lenses,flash and assorted filters and other bits and pieces. Empty weight is good. Have not hiked for long distances yet, but short ones, about 3 miles in the mountains was fine. Only complaint is that the top zippers are not as smooth as they could be.

GEORGE Z.