Kata R-102 Backpack

December 21, 2008

Category: Backpacking, Outdoor Photograpy, Reviews — Chris @ 3:29 pm

img_3892When it comes to camera bags the choices can be overwhelming. Everyone has different needs regarding capacity, organization, weight, carrying comfort, and protection. In my opinion, shoulder bags are a good option for most people because they are easy to use, come in every shape and size, and make for quicker camera access than backpacks. That being said, I’ve found that different shooting situations call for different types of camera bags, which is why I own more than one. For this particular review I’ll focus on my primary bag, the Kata R102 backpack.

Because the majority of my photography takes place off the beaten path, I often prefer a backpack over a shoulder bag because it’s easier for me to carry while hiking. Previously I only carried my Lowepro Pro Mag II AW shoulder bag, which is an awesome bag, but it became too awkward to hike with as I started acquiring and carrying more gear. It wasn’t necessarily too heavy, but carrying all my gear over one shoulder was uncomfortable and kept me off balance while hiking with a camera and tripod. I tried a photo vest but that didn’t provide enough space or protection by itself. So, I started researching and shopping for a backpack.

I am fortunate to live near a very well stocked camera shop, Norman Camera. When I started searching for a backpack I took my gear to the store and tried out several different models. This was very helpful since an online picture can’t tell you how a pack will feel when fully loaded with gear. To make a long story short, I tried various models by Lowepro, Tamrac, Tenba and Kata. I think the most important thing about a backpack is the way it carries, which is why I chose the Kata. Nothing else even compared in my opinion.

Kata is an Israeli company that happens to make technical gear and body armor for the Israeli Armed Forces, so it should come as no surprise that their photo gear is top notch. Think simple, durable, lightweight, comfortable and very functional. The R102 is no exception. It has one main compartment that can be accessed via a main perimeter zipper or a convenient smaller front zipper. Inside the lid there is one large zippered compartment, and a small clear pocket. Externally there are two small pockets and removable tripod mount. The shoulder harness is extremely comfortable, very adjustable, and also includes a small removable waistbelt (which I never use). I honestly forget about this pack when I’m wearing it, and that’s saying a lot considering all I carry in it. One of the most unique aspects of this pack is its profile - it fits close to the body and isn’t excessively deep. It also comes with a waterproof raincover, which hasn’t failed me yet.

As you can see from the following pictures, the R102 will hold an ample amount of gear. This is my regular carrying setup: 300 f4 + TC-17, D200, 18-200 VR, 105 Macro, 80-200 f2.8, SB-800, raincover, RAINSLEEVE. Also inside is a filter wallet, Digital Survival Kit, a SingRay graduated ND, 3 memory cards, Giottos Rocket Blower, Light Disc, Flash X-tender, lens cloth, adaptor rings, and probably a few other things I can’t remember. In the two small external pockets I carry 3 spare batteries (D200), small collapsable tripod (for wireless flash), remote cable, and Petzl Zipka headlamp. Obviously, the amount of gear you plan to carry will dictate the size range of your bag or backpack. Hopefully this review will give you a sense of what the Kata will hold. My setup can easily change to include an additional body or smaller lens if I need be. Thanks to Kata’s removable dividers, all you have to do is move things around until everything fits to your liking. Take a look.

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I always keep a heavy duty carabiner attached to the backpack so I can hang it from my tripod. This gives me extra stability and helps to reduce vibrations, which is very helpful in low-light & telephoto shooting.

In summary, if you’re looking for a capable, comfortable camera backpack, check out the Kata R-102. And for anyone interested in adding a laptop to your gear list, Kata makes the R-103, which is essentially the R-102 with a built in laptop sleeve. You can learn more by visiting the Kata website.

Petzl Zipka Plus… The Best Just Got Better

February 27, 2008

Category: Backpacking, Hiking, Reviews — Chris @ 11:02 pm

How many times have you found yourself fumbling around in the dark with a traditional flashlight?  Nothing is more frustrating than trying to juggle a flashlight while setting up a tent, reading a map, changing a flat, etc.  I cringe when I think about all the backpacking miles I’ve logged with a heavy mag-lite in my pack.  Sure, it never failed me, and I could probably fight off a bear with it (or at least an angry squirrel), but it weighed a ton.  Thankfully Petzl makes a fantastic option that will free up your hands and provide you with more than enough light for most applications – the Petzl Zipka Plus. 

 

Headlamps have been around for ages, but I’m not talking about your grandfather’s old coal mining headlamp.  Today’s headlamps are light, powerful, durable and affordable.  I’ve been using Petzl Headlamps since the early 90’s and they keep getting better.  I was originally drawn to them for night hiking, but quickly found them useful for many other activities.  As manufacturers continually manage to squeeze more power into smaller lights, their usefulness continues to expand.  Being an avid nature photographer I am often shooting in lowlight conditions and I find that a headlamp is crucial.  I also use my headlamp for mountain biking, backpacking, working on my Jeeps, and the list goes on.

For years my favorite headlamp has been the original Petzl Tikka.  It’s small, lightweight, bright enough for navigating a trail at night, and the LED bulbs seem to last forever.  I didn’t think the Tikka could get any better, but I was wrong.   I recently upgraded to the newer Petzl Zipka Plus and it is simply amazing.  The Zipka Plus offers all the features of the Tikka, while weighing less and packing more power via additional LED bulbs.  Not only is it lighter, it features an elastic retractable headband, which enables it to be fastened to just about anything (I’ve attached it to tripod legs and bike handlebars).  Conveniently, the Tikka and Zipka operate on standard AAA batteries, offer three different lighting levels, are water resistant, and come with a three year warranty.

To my knowledge, Petzl was the first to produce mini headlamps and I’ve been using them ever since.  I’ve looked at other brands (Black Diamond and Princeton Tec) but I’ve had no reason to switch. My Zipka Plus rotates between my camera bag and my Camelbak at all times, and my Tikka now serves as a trusty backup.  I rarely go anywhere outdoors without my Zipka Plus, it’s that good.  Plus its green, the perfect color for an adventure!

Recycle Your Empty Fuel Canisters

January 7, 2008

Category: Backpacking — Chris @ 8:47 pm
Do you have hordes of empty fuel canisters taking up space in your garage or basement?  Are you wondering how to responsibly dispose of them?
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I recently came across this short but very useful article in the February edition of Backpacker Magazine.  Check it out, it’s well worth the read.  Thanks Backpacker.