p.2 #1 · Decisions on a new Backpack – Advice requested
Atlaaaas faaanboooiy. I've said it elsewhere and i'll say it again: Their metal frame suspension and legit hiking bag foundation are the truth. I'm a backpacker turned photographer and if their packs fit your body type you will be happy. The built in ICU limits camera gear to mirrorless bodies without grips (L-bracket is ok). It sounds like your hiking uses are limited, but the ability to carry weight is awesome. Most photography bags with back access (which is super convenient for photography) cut a hole right through the main part of the pack that's supposed to carry the weight to your hips and off your shoulders. The metal frame and built in ICU both stiffen the back panel up and transmit the weight right into the hipbelt on an atlas pack
p.2 #3 · Decisions on a new Backpack – Advice requested
doc4x5 wrote:
The weights of these packs are interesting. The Backlight 18L weighs 1.6kg whereas the 26L is 1.8kg, only 200 grams more for a pretty big difference in capacity. The Backlight 36L is 2.2kg, a bit more also for more capacity. I wanted the 18L for its size but realized that for 200g more weight, I got 8L more carrying capacity. The space matters for both heavy camera gear and jackets and sandwiches.
p.2 #4 · Decisions on a new Backpack – Advice requested
jmmaher wrote:
I didn't realize how close these are in weight.
Hi Jim,
I have the original Backlight 26L and a new Backlight 18L. At this point, if I can, I prefer to carry the smaller size of the smaller pack, but I am normally carrying 3 Sony A7r series camera bodies and 5 lens (Leica M and Leica R lenses). 1 lens is mounted to each camera body with 2 unmounted lenses.
But, if I need a little more space, I will use the 26L. But, be aware, the 26L is not really that much larger on the interior of the backpack itself than the 18L. It is only 2cm wider and 6.5cm longer than the 18L for the camera side of the pack. Much of the additional size of the pack is on the side for your clothing and laptop.
As I mentioned earlier the Backlight Elite 45L is an entirely different animal than the smaller Backlight packs with a much much better internal frame, much better harness, much better waist belt, and exchangeable (and removable) camera compartments. The pack though heavier, is also made to a much higher standards for materials, back and top panel access, removable waste belt, removable top compartment that can be used as a small pack with the waist belt, etc. The pack will carry more weight much more comfortably when you need to carry the weight. It is made of much more weather resistant material, etc.
