p.1 #1 · Suggestions for 600mm lens carrying system for hiking
I’m heading to Patagonia for pumas and want to take my Canon 600mm lens but will have to hike with it. I’m a 65 year old woman in shape for my age, but have a hard time carrying it for any long distance and the over the shoulder with the tripod kills my shoulder for any extended period of time. I have looked at the Mr Jan Gear lens Cary system but have not bought yet. I have the Peak Design strap, but it sits on my neck and really hurts…. A backpack will take too long to get it out every time. I need to figure something out, or just take my 100-500 and forget the 600.
Thanks for your thoughts! A Sherpa would be great, not sure I can afford that!🤑
p.1 #2 · Suggestions for 600mm lens carrying system for hiking
I used the GumbaGear 32 L Elite last time. A lot depends on how active they are and how difficult the terrain is. Sometimes I carreid the backpack and sometimes just carried the big lens on the tripod over the shoulder. In the worst cases I gave up on the Canon gear and used a Sony 200-600 on tripod alone. Definitely bring a 100-500 since sometimes it will be the best choice as you may get fairly close if they have a kill or family around. Are you going soon or what time of year? If you send me a PM I can try to help further.
p.1 #5 · Suggestions for 600mm lens carrying system for hiking
If that's the only gear you want to carry on a hike, I find the ThinkTank Long Lens backpack to work well. Their Glass Limo will handle the lens with the body removed. Other bags are larger and carry more.
p.1 #6 · Suggestions for 600mm lens carrying system for hiking
Thumbs up for the ThinkTank Glass Limo which is beautifully constructed and is easy to schlepp due to the narrow profile. Pictured below, the pack contains a supertele Nikon 800/8 Ai-S (hood reversed), detached D4, and a Wimberley WH-200.
p.1 #7 · Suggestions for 600mm lens carrying system for hiking
For this application skip all photo backpacks. I have yet to see one that carries weight as well as a dedicated hiking backpack. F-stop and Shimoda come close, but are still worse than what an Osprey, Gregory or Mystery Ranch will do for you. And the latter will cost about half of most photo oriented options.
You do not say which 600mm you will lug, that makes a lot of difference.
For something like a Nikon 180-600 or 600 PF the Shimoda L25 RST works extremely well https://shimodadesigns.com/shimoda-core-unit-mirrorless-l25-rst-520-452/
Ignore the BS videos about top access - it simply does not work for any mid-sized body and a lens with a sizeable hood. The ICU is perfectly sized for carrying a 180-600 on Nikon Z8 body, with a 100-400 lens on the side and still some room for batteries, knick knacks and binoculars. It fits absolutely perfectly in a Mystery Ranch Scree 33 or Coulee 35. The Y-shaped front zipper makes access a breeze.
For the Big Bertha (600/4) you need to go to the Shimoda L55 RST https://shimodadesigns.com/shimoda-core-unit-dslr-xl50-rst-520-455/
This will fit almost anything you can reasonably carry. I have fitted a 500mm f/4 with a 1.7x TC and FTZ on a Nikon Z8. I believe this is about as long as the 600/4. Fits perfectly in my Trion Spine Pro 50L. The front U-shaped panel zipper gives you full access to the entire ICU. Again, ignore the top access BS, it simply does not work as advertised.
I love Shimoda ICUs and own 3 of them. They give shape and structure to any pack without needless padding. Not the cheapest thing, but IMO best in class.
That TT in the image above looks painfl to use. Particularly that flimsy tripod attachment on the side. Do you really want a tripod slapping your thigh and ass as you are hiking up a stiff slope? Or even worse catching on branches or rocks? Not sure what the designer was thinking. With a pack like the Trion, or a Gregory Zulu 55, the tripod is mounted securely either centered or well above your waist. And the frame will fit securely on your lower back and keep the weight on your legs. The waist strap on the TT is simply a decorative appendage that will not keep the weight off your shoulders on a 4-8 hr hike.
p.1 #9 · Suggestions for 600mm lens carrying system for hiking
GroovyGeek wrote:
For this application skip all photo backpacks. I have yet to see one that carries weight as well as a dedicated hiking backpack. F-stop and Shimoda come close, but are still worse than what an Osprey, Gregory or Mystery Ranch will do for you. And the latter will cost about half of most photo oriented options.
You do not say which 600mm you will lug, that makes a lot of difference.
For something like a Nikon 180-600 or 600 PF the Shimoda L25 RST works extremely well https://shimodadesigns.com/shimoda-core-unit-mirrorless-l25-rst-520-452/
Ignore the BS videos about top access - it simply does not work for any mid-sized body and a lens with a sizeable hood. The ICU is perfectly sized for carrying a 180-600 on Nikon Z8 body, with a 100-400 lens on the side and still some room for batteries, knick knacks and binoculars. It fits absolutely perfectly in a Mystery Ranch Scree 33 or Coulee 35. The Y-shaped front zipper makes access a breeze.
For the Big Bertha (600/4) you need to go to the Shimoda L55 RST https://shimodadesigns.com/shimoda-core-unit-dslr-xl50-rst-520-455/
This will fit almost anything you can reasonably carry. I have fitted a 500mm f/4 with a 1.7x TC and FTZ on a Nikon Z8. I believe this is about as long as the 600/4. Fits perfectly in my Trion Spine Pro 50L. The front U-shaped panel zipper gives you full access to the entire ICU. Again, ignore the top access BS, it simply does not work as advertised.
I love Shimoda ICUs and own 3 of them. They give shape and structure to any pack without needless padding. Not the cheapest thing, but IMO best in class.
That TT in the image above looks painfl to use. Particularly that flimsy tripod attachment on the side. Do you really want a tripod slapping your thigh and ass as you are hiking up a stiff slope? Or even worse catching on branches or rocks? Not sure what the designer was thinking. With a pack like the Trion, or a Gregory Zulu 55, the tripod is mounted securely either centered or well above your waist. And the frame will fit securely on your lower back and keep the weight on your legs. The waist strap on the TT is simply a decorative appendage that will not keep the weight off your shoulders on a 4-8 hr hike....Show more →
I have will look at the Shimoda. I have the Canon 600mm f4 and Canon R5II. I did get the Mr Jan Gear front pouch carry sling type thing and it seem reasonable and you can get it out quickly…. Thanks for the info and sorry for the delayed response!
p.1 #10 · Suggestions for 600mm lens carrying system for hiking
Todd Warnke wrote:
I have the Mr. Jan and like it. Not as quick to use as the PD strap, but plenty quick enough for me when birding. That said, nothing beats a Sherpa.
I just got the Mr Jan and it seems like it will work. I can get it out reasonably fast. The 600mm f4 feels heavy on the stomach, but I’m guessing I won’t notice it while hiking around. I find the straps to slide up on my neck and hurt. Plus with the connection with one of my straps you can’t then put it on a tripod… I have the Peak Design and in Yellowstone I felt like I was being cloaked on the neck. Ended up with it just over my shoulder trying to keep it from slipping off,
Thanks so much for the reply! Beth
p.1 #11 · Suggestions for 600mm lens carrying system for hiking
rico wrote:
Thumbs up for the ThinkTank Glass Limo which is beautifully constructed and is easy to schlepp due to the narrow profile. Pictured below, the pack contains a supertele Nikon 800/8 Ai-S (hood reversed), detached D4, and a Wimberley WH-200.
I have a Think Tank for just getting the lens there, I need the camera put together and ready to shoot. I appreciate the thought! I do love my Think Tank bag.
p.1 #12 · Suggestions for 600mm lens carrying system for hiking
Jeffrey wrote:
If that's the only gear you want to carry on a hike, I find the ThinkTank Long Lens backpack to work well. Their Glass Limo will handle the lens with the body removed. Other bags are larger and carry more.
I don’t think I want it in a backpack I have to take off to get the camera out. I don’t know how fast the cats move, but I’m afraid there would be too many missed shots putting down and getting it out…. I have a Think Tank bag for getting the 600mm f4 there, but the body can not be attached and it just fits airline carry on size. I do appreciate the thought. I have looked at that bag before. Beth
p.1 #13 · Suggestions for 600mm lens carrying system for hiking
Tollefsen wrote:
Mine will weigh more, that is why I’m looking for a carry system. Did the monopod do ok with the wind?
Wind can push the lens around on a monopod. But smaller lenses have less surface area so they won't get blown around as much. Most lenses allow you to use OIS/IBIS while on a monopod. Whereas you often need to turn camera stabilizing off when locked to a tripod. Using OIS from a monopod can be better than mounting on a weak tripod without using OIS.
p.1 #14 · Suggestions for 600mm lens carrying system for hiking
You mentioned the Mr. Jan chest carry, Beth, so let me add my two cents. It might be different for a female frame, but I've been using his lens carrier system and really like it. Currently using it with a Nikon Z9 and 180-600 lens, and it works very well for me.
p.1 #15 · Suggestions for 600mm lens carrying system for hiking
Fred Amico wrote:
You mentioned the Mr. Jan chest carry, Beth, so let me add my two cents. It might be different for a female frame, but I've been using his lens carrier system and really like it. Currently using it with a Nikon Z9 and 180-600 lens, and it works very well for me.
I think it will work the best of anything else I have tried. I know I don’t want it in a backpack having to take it off to get it out. The tripod over the shoulder is just awkward and I’m thin with bony shoulders, it hurts for any distance. I also think I will use it with my 100-500 which is smaller, but for hands free and the little pocket on the front can carry an extender.
Thanks!!! Beth
p.1 #16 · Suggestions for 600mm lens carrying system for hiking
jeffbuzz wrote:
Wind can push the lens around on a monopod. But smaller lenses have less surface area so they won't get blown around as much. Most lenses allow you to use OIS/IBIS while on a monopod. Whereas you often need to turn camera stabilizing off when locked to a tripod. Using OIS from a monopod can be better than mounting on a weak tripod without using OIS.
I have a good tripod and gimbal. I’m just not fast setting up the tripod as I don’t use it that much. The monopod is easier to manage and lighter. I may just take both as this is not a trip where you have to consider every pound you fly with!!
p.1 #17 · Suggestions for 600mm lens carrying system for hiking
Congrats on that trip, it sounds amazing.
I have to ask the following:
Are you used to the altitude of your destination? How far will you hike? Are you used to hiking that far? How far do you hike with the 600/4 currently? That will influence your lens choice. Maybe rent a 200-800 for the trip?
I agree a backpack is slow. I use one getting too and from my destination, but once there, the camera needs to be ready.
I sometimes use a BlackRapid. I always have a hand on the lens to keep it from bouncing as I walk. For what I carry, it is generally comfortable for me. I use it in combination with a belt pack (Mountainsmith Tour).
I sometimes use a QD carrier on a heavy duty hipbelt (Atlas Adventure). I also have a hand on it to keep it from bouncing.
Of the two, the BlackRapid is faster. The weight is either on one shoulder, or on one hip (a strong hipbelt makes this less trouble that you might think, but it can still add up).
If I want to carry my backpack for extra supplies that won't fit in the hip pack, then the BlackRapid doesn't work (uncomfortable with overlapping straps) and I use the QD on the hipbelt instead.
I'm going to try the Mr Jan Gear carrier next (Fred's answer convinced me to try it). I like that I can use it with or without a backpack as needed. Being on both shoulders instead of just one should help.
p.1 #18 · Suggestions for 600mm lens carrying system for hiking
Shedugengan wrote:
Congrats on that trip, it sounds amazing.
I have to ask the following:
Are you used to the altitude of your destination? How far will you hike? Are you used to hiking that far? How far do you hike with the 600/4 currently? That will influence your lens choice. Maybe rent a 200-800 for the trip?
I agree a backpack is slow. I use one getting too and from my destination, but once there, the camera needs to be ready.
I sometimes use a BlackRapid. I always have a hand on the lens to keep it from bouncing as I walk. For what I carry, it is generally comfortable for me. I use it in combination with a belt pack (Mountainsmith Tour).
I sometimes use a QD carrier on a heavy duty hipbelt (Atlas Adventure). I also have a hand on it to keep it from bouncing.
Of the two, the BlackRapid is faster. The weight is either on one shoulder, or on one hip (a strong hipbelt makes this less trouble that you might think, but it can still add up).
If I want to carry my backpack for extra supplies that won't fit in the hip pack, then the BlackRapid doesn't work (uncomfortable with overlapping straps) and I use the QD on the hipbelt instead.
I'm going to try the Mr Jan Gear carrier next (Fred's answer convinced me to try it). I like that I can use it with or without a backpack as needed. Being on both shoulders instead of just one should help.
I live at 7500 feet so used to altitude, I don’t hike far with the 600 that is why I was looking for a way to carry it. I have the 200-800, but it needs too much light and not sure it would do well early mornings and not as sharp as my 100-500. I think the Mr Jan Gear will be my best bet and then hand carry my 100-500. I like the Jan pouch in front as it distributes the weight on both shoulders. And it takes like 5 seconds to get out if you need to fast. I have the after market small lens hood so it does not stick out a lot. Thanks for your thoughts!
p.1 #19 · Suggestions for 600mm lens carrying system for hiking
GroovyGeek wrote:
For this application skip all photo backpacks. I have yet to see one that carries weight as well as a dedicated hiking backpack. ...
For something like a Nikon 180-600 or 600 PF the Shimoda L25 RST works extremely well https://shimodadesigns.com/shimoda-core-unit-mirrorless-l25-rst-520-452/
Ignore the BS videos about top access - it simply does not work for any mid-sized body and a lens with a sizeable hood. The ICU is perfectly sized for carrying a 180-600 on Nikon Z8 body, with a 100-400 lens on the side and still some room for batteries, knick knacks and binoculars. It fits absolutely perfectly in a Mystery Ranch Scree 33 or Coulee 35. The Y-shaped front zipper makes access a breeze.
For the Big Bertha (600/4) you need to go to the Shimoda L55 RST https://shimodadesigns.com/shimoda-core-unit-dslr-xl50-rst-520-455/
This will fit almost anything you can reasonably carry. I have fitted a 500mm f/4 with a 1.7x TC and FTZ on a Nikon Z8. I believe this is about as long as the 600/4. Fits perfectly in my Trion Spine Pro 50L. The front U-shaped panel zipper gives you full access to the entire ICU. Again, ignore the top access BS, it simply does not work as advertised.
I love Shimoda ICUs and own 3 of them. They give shape and structure to any pack without needless padding. Not the cheapest thing, but IMO best in class.
... ...Show more →
Which packs do you use for the various Shimoda inserts? How do you handle the lack of padding on the one side?
p.1 #20 · Suggestions for 600mm lens carrying system for hiking
Over the last few years I have gravitated to Gregory packs, particularly the Zulu 45 for my typical day trip landscape use, Zulu 55 for trips over a few days, and the Baltoro 95 Pro for week+ backpacking. Each of them carries weight much better than any photo backpack I have ever used. They all have side pockets for water. For landscape work I use a Shimoda medium DSLR unit which is perfect for a Z8, 14-24, 24-100, 100-400, 1.4x TC, a few spare batteries, and a set of filters. The Zulus are front panel access, the Baltoro is top access only but when I am backpacking I don't need easy access, I am most worried about weight distribution. Tripod is strapped either to the side or the front. When on the side I tuck two of the legs in the mesh side pocket and use a side strap to attach securely. I attach the tripod on the opposite side of the 100-400 to balance the weight better. IMO this is a more comfortable setup than either the F-Stop or Shimoda packs, both of which I have owned and used in the past.
I have gotten into birding lately. There I use one of two setups. For Z8 + 180-600 + 70-200 I use the Shimoda RST25 in a Mystery Ranch Scree 32 pack. The fit is perfect and the front Y zipper is very convenient. There is a small amount of extra space for 2 batteries, a TC, and a few other things. When I need to carry a big lens, ie. the 800 PF + 180-600, I switch to a Shimoda XL50 RST in a Trion Spine 50. There is room for a dead horse inside the XL50, it should also fit a Z8 attached to a 600/4 TC. Note that this is the now out of production Trion Spine, not the regular Trion which does not carry weight as nicely. As you correctly point out, this is a winter touring backpack which does not have outside pockets for water bottles. When birding I am rarely more than an hour away from my vehicle, so I don't need much water. I will typically have a 3rd party water bottle sleeve that I attach to the left shoulder strap https://a.co/d/0cvjFlBj
I never worry about lack of padding on the front. Most photos backpacks are needlessly over padded, with a ratio of external to internal volume that is way too large. My landscape kit usually sees much rougher conditions, when I usually have some extra items in the front pocket of the Zulus - sun hat, knee pads, perhaps an extra layer of clothing. Those provide more than enough buffering for me.
Shedugengan wrote:
Which packs do you use for the various Shimoda inserts? How do you handle the lack of padding on the one side?
