Ape CaseCamcorder Case, Teal (AC580T)
D**E
Compare to the smaller tech case w/pictures
Like many people, I wanted a low key, minimalist bag that didn't scream "come beat me up for my cameras". All I really wanted was a comfortable to carry bag to hold the camera and 2 lenses. I first purchased the smaller "tech" bag(AC560G). It was a tight squeeze for my Olympus OM-D E10 Mk 2, a mirrorless micro 4/3 camera, I doubt a DSLR will fit better as they are generally bigger. The regular camera bags seemed to be so thick, like carrying around a toaster oven, so I was wary of going larger. However, my relatively small camera barely fit if I were careful to put the body towards the middle where the bag was widest. It will zip shut, but strained the zipper. So I ordered the larger bag (AC580G) in this review. Dimensions of the bags given on websites is confusing because of the curvy organic shape. Check out my pictures (done with iPhone) to see the bags next to each other, and also, if you are curious about the size of a micro 4/3 camera compared to the old school Olympus film camera (an OM-1 in this case). The smaller bag will barely hold the digital camera and zoom lens. The larger bag will hold my OM-1 and new camera plus a couple of lenses. The padding in both seems adequate for carry, but I wouldn't feel safe checking either bag at an airport without further protection. The velcro locations could have been better, and I agree with some reviews about the velcro for the outer flap to be disruptive for wildlife photography. My solution that enables me to use the velcro when I want, was to merely stick a mating half of velcro in place to reduce the size "patch" that actually connected. When I want a firmer connection, such as in close quarters where theft could be likely, I can pull off the mated pieces and stow them for later, enjoying the benefit of the full area of velcro. Only some velcro and scissors are necessary. No sewing or knives needed. I kept the smaller bag as well, as an adjunct for lens cleaning supplies filters, etc., or to use for other purposes.
E**D
it's a wonderful camera bag
This is an exceptionally light-weight bag with adjustable foam protection for your camera. The teal fold-down flap stays closed through Velcro, which I found to be noisy and not necessary, because the camera is in a zippered pouch anyway. The sound of the Velcro gets in the way of any nature photography requiring quiet, and it adds an extra step to quick access of the camera for street photography. I used a pocket knife and removed it, and it left no scars on the bag. With this modification, for me, it's a wonderful camera bag. The shoulder strap to this bag is curved, designed I think to be worn on the left shoulder, with the bag hanging on your right side. It makes it convenient if your right-hand dominant, so you can easily reach into your bag. The strap is sewn in such a way that this can't be change, though the length can be adjusted.
F**W
Great Camera Purse
I got the Ape Case Large Tech Messenger Camera Case for an upcoming trip to hold my Canon Rebel and my wallet.After practicing for a few days, I’m happy. It looks great, is comfortable, and holds what I need it to hold. That said, it looks much larger than it is, so make a mock up of the dimensions to see if it will work for you.The bag has 2 sections. Section 1, the area for a camera, is under the colored flap (which has large, very noisy Velcro and a secured zipper with pulls on either end); it holds my Rebel with kit lens attached and a square wallet. As I want safe storage and easy access, I won’t be putting any other lens in this bag—not enough room for quick in and out.Section 2 is an exterior zippered pocket (not really a compartment), and I don’t feel it can hold much more than a lipstick, plane ticket/boarding pass, iPhone, and other flat, flexible map-like items (certainly not a tablet). I do cram my keys and sunglasses in there, but the bag starts to feel fat.The strap with sliding cushion pad is comfortable on my shoulder or across my body, even when I have the camera out and camera strap around my neck. The bag hangs close without making me worry about knocking into things.This bag is what I wanted, but it would be better called a Camera Purse (Purselet?) providing a safe, fashionable means for a picture-taking tourist not to look so much like a tourist.I also got the Ape Case Cubeze Case for my 3 extra lens and my husband will carry it inside his daypack along with the raincoats.
C**G
My daughter gave it a thumbs up on both fashion and function.
Finally, a camera bag that is fashionable enough as well as functional for a girl who is finicky with what she carries or whether it matches her fashion statement. Forget the fact that it's a great bag with plenty of space for an APS-C DSLR, with an 18-55mm lens, there's still room for either a flash or a longer lens like 70-300mm maybe. There is a side pocket that can hold memory cards, extra batteries, a cell phone or an Ipod. There's even room for either an 8 or 10 inch tablet. The inside color is bright yellow so you can find a black color accessory that you may normally loose in a black bag. What a concept. The zipper is of good quality and can seal moisture out. The shoulder strap is very comfortable and ergonomically angled so that it sits properly on your shoulder or can be rotated so you can carry your bag in front or behind. I do believe you can strap the bag around your waist as well. Either way, don't bother with the smaller version of this bag unless you have a small point and shoot camera. It's really too small even for a micro-four thirds camera. I just wish it came in other colors so that I can buy one for myself. Regardless, my daughter gave it a thumbs up on both fashion and function.
J**F
A stylish bag with lots of appeal and some downfalls
Feels well padded and looks like it can offer decent protection. That said, the capacity is more like a medium despite the name “Large Tech Messenger”. The teal colour looks better in person than in photos. Overall, it’s an attractive messenger bag.The teal flap provides decent security from theft and rain. Having the zippers concealed under the flap is a good deterrent from would-be pick pockets and it additionally serves as a cover for rain in the event you are caught without an umbrella.The strap has a curved shoulder pad and the length can be adjusted from both sides. You can are also wear the bag on your left or right shoulder as a cross-body. Unfortunately, the strap is attached in a way where you cannot remove/replace.The bag has two compartments. I was able to comfortably fit my Canon 6D with 35mm lens inside and still have enough space for an additional lens if needed. With a DSLR, you are limited to only placing the camera in sideways. You will not be able to close the zippers if you place your camera in facing down or have a battery/vertical grip attached. This is because the shape of the bag is narrower at the top and really limits your flexibility.The bright yellow inner lining also feels flimsy and loose, but it does provide very good contrast to whatever that is inside the bag. I also think that if water were to ever penetrate the exterior of the bag, the nylon lining inside might be able to resist some moisture from getting to your contents. So, it has an unintended benefit of keeping your gear dry.The biggest conundrum I have with this bag. The inside perimeter of the pouch is lined with two parallel strips of Velcro, followed by one short strip at the bottom, and comes with two movable pads. One pad is the standard divider you see in most camera bags and the other is a small two-inch block; meant to support your lens presumably. Because of this poor design, you are limited on how you can configure your pads. You cannot adjust the standard divider too high or low without risking the Velcro not holding on well. Or, if you have a short lens like me and want to keep the camera as far to the right of the bag as possible. The Velcro at the bottom of the bag does not reach far enough to where I want the small padded block to be. I am then forced to shift my configuration over a little and lose overall storage capacity for the sake of making sure my lens is properly supported.The next serious design flaw is the zipper for the back compartment. When fully closed, the zipper does not seal completely. For the purpose of water resistance, having a hole exposed to the elements is counter to keeping moisture out. While I think it will be okay for light rain now and then, don’t expect to keep it out for long periods.After using it on a couple of outing, I found the bag to be comfortable to wear as long as I don’t over-stuff the back compartment. It hangs close and conforms well to my side or back without much bounce or swing to it.
I**C
A great looking Camera Bag
Very well made and stylish as well for a reasonable price.
P**O
Buena opción para la cámara
Bueno, con suficiente espacio para la cámara y un objetivo. Acolchados y bolsa con cierre lateral. Además Es muy cómoda
B**W
Great case
Great case. I bought it for use in Jamaica at the pool and on the boat. Kept my gear dry with ample room for my DSLR and misc. camera pieces.
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