Matus
Well-known
So - as promised, here is the review of the messenger bag made by Couerware.
A little background:
After ordering the Mamiya 6 with 3 lenses I realized that I will need yet another new bag for it. The main purpose of this bag should be one day trips with very little luggage apart from the camera (a bottle of water, documents, wallet, map and maybe a book). For any more serious trips where more involved hiking is expected I use a backpack.
The choice
I knew I wanted a light weight bag that should be reusable as a non camera bag (when just carrying a small P&S or similar). It should be pleasant to wear, durable, water resistant and not look like a camera bag.
I went through several options (many of then having a removable photo insert) Just to name a few:
- Tenba Small Photo messenger
- Billingham Hadley Pro (cool one toot, but very few pockets)
- Naneu Lima (interesting bag)
- ThinkTank Retospective bag (very nice, but too heavy for me with 1.4kg)
- Timbuk2 custom bags (got s few in hand - a bit too sturdy main flop to my taste, a bit too heavy too)
- and some more ...
The decision
- thanks to an involved thread here on RFF I came across the Bare Bones Bag (BBB2) which seemed quite a perfect - very light (about a pound), simple, made out of good material. I have checked the size - looked fine. I have also called Stephen, but found out that some customization I was after could not have been implemented. But as the BBB are made by Courerware, I checked their webpage. I realized that the BBB2 is basically the smallest messenger (with some modifications). I have exchanged a few email with Eric from Courierware and the deal was set. I decided to go with the Messenger Super Courier Deluxe Bag in the size SMALL (11 x 14 x 5.5", weight about 750 gram without the shoulder pad) as it had most of the features I wanted. Eric had also no problem to incorporate the few modifications I have requested (at very little surcharge) and also confirmed that the bag will be ready in time (I was on a rather tight schedule) - and a deal was sealed.
NOTE: all photos are clickable - there are ~ 1600 x 1600 photos on flickr for those who are interested
The BAG
I have chosen the Black-Navy combination. I found it nice and stealthy enough. It really looks nice in a real life.
This version of the bag in this size has 2 front open pockets. 4 Inner pockets (3 on the front and 1 large with a velcro closure on the rear). There is also one pocket from outside on the back panel with a velcro closure. The bag as described can be seen on the Courierware webpage. It is important to note that tha rear outside pocked is not sewn at the rear base edge and so it goes under whole bag. This allows to add or remove padding at the bottom of the bag as you like. Experience shows that smaller items do not have the tendency to slip under the bag.
One more comment on the pockets - all the pockets on the bag are actually flat. So if you put any 3D object inside the inner pocket the content will actually not sit on the very bottom of the bag what actually allows you to put some stuff under the pockets.
Accessories:
I ordered the bag together with a small handle (very well designed) and a shoulder pad (to be commented later on)
Modifications
As I had a clear idea what I needed I have requested following modifications of the bag:
1) front pocket should be close-able. First I proposed a two separate flaps with velcro, but Eric pointed out that this would not work with the velcro strips for the main flap and proposed a zipper.
2) I asked Eric to divide the back inrer pocket in two - one should accept a 1 liter Sigg botle and the rest should be for Mamiya body with a lens.
3) To give the gear inside the bag a bit more protection Eric added a 5mm thick closed cell foam
My updates
- I have added the strips of male velcro to effectively disable the velcro on the main flap - is of course removable. If you do not want to have the velcro strips (or you do not want the buckles) they can be removed by Courierware.
- I have also added 2 small rubber bands around the bottom buckles as I found that they are too easy to adjust (prolong).
************************
So - how it is actually like?
************************
- The outer material is very strong, semi stiff. What I find important is that it is nice to touch - smooth and soft enough not to destroy you clothing it will be rubbing against.
- The inner material is light grey (stuff is easy to spot - very helpful), it is glossy on touch and also a bit stiffer. It actually has the right amount of stiffness such that the pockets do not "fly around" but do not get in the way when not used.
- The inner (grey) part is not sewn at the bottom to the outer (black) part so you can fold it up what allows a very easy cleaning and also adds to water resistance of the bag (should you put it on a wet floor)
- The front zipper - I like the way it was implemented. I find it also rather useful, as the inner of the front pockets is rather slippery and I could imagine a wallet or documents to fall out is the bag if flipped upside-down accidentally. It also gives me a bit more confidence against theft.
- The shoulder strap (2" wide). Is semi-stiff. Not as stiff as the the ones used by Crumpler (which I find too stiff - I have the "stunner" bag). The edges are not too sharp so it would not cut your shoulder, but to improve the grip you may want to add some pad. The shoulder strap ends on both sides like an "Y" - so it is sewn to the bag from BOTH inside AND outside. No way that this is going to get loose.
- The shoulder pad. I have ordered one from Courierware, but found it to bee too stiff for my taste (and also quite heavy - about 4 oz or 120 g). Here I would add that this is one of the smallest bags from Courierware and the shoulder pad will match the bigger ones (which will probably carry more weight) better. I also found that it slipped too easily along the strap so I looked for a replacement. I got an Ergopad which while small and interesting was a bit too hard on edges. Finally I got a shoulder strap from Tatonka and cannibalized the pad which is just what I needed (small light comfortable, does not slip from the shoulder and does not slide too easily along the strap). See the comparison images of these 3 pads bellow.
- The front pockets. While large they are flat so you are not going to put too much stuff inside. Still - I fit in one my wallet together with personal documents and in the other the small photo items (cable release, mobile phone, pocket knife, etc.). What is also nice you only need to open one of the clips to access one of the front pockets.
- The rear pocket - useful for whatever flat items you need to have at hand. at this size of bag you barely fit inside an A4 book (thin one). I would not put inside papers that are supposed to stay nice and flat as the pocket is not stiff and will copy either you hip or the gear inside the bag. Still - a very useful.
- How does it wears? - great! I have been running 3 hours around the city with the Mamiya 6 and 3 lenses and some more small stuff. The bag copies partially your body and so stays as close as possible what feels really good. Should you need to put more stuff inside than you just do not put your camera in the rear pocket, but you put it just on top of everything (a light sweatshirt in my case).
So, do I like it ... ?
- you bet! It is a great done and well designed bag. It will be my main bag to go to a city with or without a camera. It will NOT replace a dedicated camera bags for dedicated shootings, but mostly I just go out ad do also other things. I am confident this bag will last long years and see a lot of use. Its versatility is hard to beat.
********************
And finally the photos !
********************
Front view:
Rear view:
Front pockets with zipper:
Front pockets with zipper II:
Top view:
Left side:
Right side:
Shoulder pad - top:
Shoulder pads - bottom:
Inner space. Note that the film boxes are somewhat longer that the width of the bag base:
Inner pockets - to show the size and volume.
Interior folded up:
With Mamiya 6 gear inside (the 50 and 150 lenses are in neoprene pouches - I still consider using them only for transport, but leaving them in a hotel room):
All what comes inside:
With a possible compact large format (4x5) equipment. Of course - you need to carry your tripod in your hand (or over your shoulder):
************
So - that is my attempt to bring you a review. I will be happy to answer your questions or add more photos upon request. Just be fast - I am off for a 3 week long vacation on 20th
A little background:
After ordering the Mamiya 6 with 3 lenses I realized that I will need yet another new bag for it. The main purpose of this bag should be one day trips with very little luggage apart from the camera (a bottle of water, documents, wallet, map and maybe a book). For any more serious trips where more involved hiking is expected I use a backpack.
The choice
I knew I wanted a light weight bag that should be reusable as a non camera bag (when just carrying a small P&S or similar). It should be pleasant to wear, durable, water resistant and not look like a camera bag.
I went through several options (many of then having a removable photo insert) Just to name a few:
- Tenba Small Photo messenger
- Billingham Hadley Pro (cool one toot, but very few pockets)
- Naneu Lima (interesting bag)
- ThinkTank Retospective bag (very nice, but too heavy for me with 1.4kg)
- Timbuk2 custom bags (got s few in hand - a bit too sturdy main flop to my taste, a bit too heavy too)
- and some more ...
The decision
- thanks to an involved thread here on RFF I came across the Bare Bones Bag (BBB2) which seemed quite a perfect - very light (about a pound), simple, made out of good material. I have checked the size - looked fine. I have also called Stephen, but found out that some customization I was after could not have been implemented. But as the BBB are made by Courerware, I checked their webpage. I realized that the BBB2 is basically the smallest messenger (with some modifications). I have exchanged a few email with Eric from Courierware and the deal was set. I decided to go with the Messenger Super Courier Deluxe Bag in the size SMALL (11 x 14 x 5.5", weight about 750 gram without the shoulder pad) as it had most of the features I wanted. Eric had also no problem to incorporate the few modifications I have requested (at very little surcharge) and also confirmed that the bag will be ready in time (I was on a rather tight schedule) - and a deal was sealed.
NOTE: all photos are clickable - there are ~ 1600 x 1600 photos on flickr for those who are interested
The BAG
I have chosen the Black-Navy combination. I found it nice and stealthy enough. It really looks nice in a real life.
This version of the bag in this size has 2 front open pockets. 4 Inner pockets (3 on the front and 1 large with a velcro closure on the rear). There is also one pocket from outside on the back panel with a velcro closure. The bag as described can be seen on the Courierware webpage. It is important to note that tha rear outside pocked is not sewn at the rear base edge and so it goes under whole bag. This allows to add or remove padding at the bottom of the bag as you like. Experience shows that smaller items do not have the tendency to slip under the bag.
One more comment on the pockets - all the pockets on the bag are actually flat. So if you put any 3D object inside the inner pocket the content will actually not sit on the very bottom of the bag what actually allows you to put some stuff under the pockets.
Accessories:
I ordered the bag together with a small handle (very well designed) and a shoulder pad (to be commented later on)
Modifications
As I had a clear idea what I needed I have requested following modifications of the bag:
1) front pocket should be close-able. First I proposed a two separate flaps with velcro, but Eric pointed out that this would not work with the velcro strips for the main flap and proposed a zipper.
2) I asked Eric to divide the back inrer pocket in two - one should accept a 1 liter Sigg botle and the rest should be for Mamiya body with a lens.
3) To give the gear inside the bag a bit more protection Eric added a 5mm thick closed cell foam
My updates
- I have added the strips of male velcro to effectively disable the velcro on the main flap - is of course removable. If you do not want to have the velcro strips (or you do not want the buckles) they can be removed by Courierware.
- I have also added 2 small rubber bands around the bottom buckles as I found that they are too easy to adjust (prolong).
************************
So - how it is actually like?
************************
- The outer material is very strong, semi stiff. What I find important is that it is nice to touch - smooth and soft enough not to destroy you clothing it will be rubbing against.
- The inner material is light grey (stuff is easy to spot - very helpful), it is glossy on touch and also a bit stiffer. It actually has the right amount of stiffness such that the pockets do not "fly around" but do not get in the way when not used.
- The inner (grey) part is not sewn at the bottom to the outer (black) part so you can fold it up what allows a very easy cleaning and also adds to water resistance of the bag (should you put it on a wet floor)
- The front zipper - I like the way it was implemented. I find it also rather useful, as the inner of the front pockets is rather slippery and I could imagine a wallet or documents to fall out is the bag if flipped upside-down accidentally. It also gives me a bit more confidence against theft.
- The shoulder strap (2" wide). Is semi-stiff. Not as stiff as the the ones used by Crumpler (which I find too stiff - I have the "stunner" bag). The edges are not too sharp so it would not cut your shoulder, but to improve the grip you may want to add some pad. The shoulder strap ends on both sides like an "Y" - so it is sewn to the bag from BOTH inside AND outside. No way that this is going to get loose.
- The shoulder pad. I have ordered one from Courierware, but found it to bee too stiff for my taste (and also quite heavy - about 4 oz or 120 g). Here I would add that this is one of the smallest bags from Courierware and the shoulder pad will match the bigger ones (which will probably carry more weight) better. I also found that it slipped too easily along the strap so I looked for a replacement. I got an Ergopad which while small and interesting was a bit too hard on edges. Finally I got a shoulder strap from Tatonka and cannibalized the pad which is just what I needed (small light comfortable, does not slip from the shoulder and does not slide too easily along the strap). See the comparison images of these 3 pads bellow.
- The front pockets. While large they are flat so you are not going to put too much stuff inside. Still - I fit in one my wallet together with personal documents and in the other the small photo items (cable release, mobile phone, pocket knife, etc.). What is also nice you only need to open one of the clips to access one of the front pockets.
- The rear pocket - useful for whatever flat items you need to have at hand. at this size of bag you barely fit inside an A4 book (thin one). I would not put inside papers that are supposed to stay nice and flat as the pocket is not stiff and will copy either you hip or the gear inside the bag. Still - a very useful.
- How does it wears? - great! I have been running 3 hours around the city with the Mamiya 6 and 3 lenses and some more small stuff. The bag copies partially your body and so stays as close as possible what feels really good. Should you need to put more stuff inside than you just do not put your camera in the rear pocket, but you put it just on top of everything (a light sweatshirt in my case).
So, do I like it ... ?
- you bet! It is a great done and well designed bag. It will be my main bag to go to a city with or without a camera. It will NOT replace a dedicated camera bags for dedicated shootings, but mostly I just go out ad do also other things. I am confident this bag will last long years and see a lot of use. Its versatility is hard to beat.
********************
And finally the photos !
********************
Front view:
Rear view:
Front pockets with zipper:
Front pockets with zipper II:
Top view:
Left side:
Right side:
Shoulder pad - top:
Shoulder pads - bottom:
Inner space. Note that the film boxes are somewhat longer that the width of the bag base:
Inner pockets - to show the size and volume.
Interior folded up:
With Mamiya 6 gear inside (the 50 and 150 lenses are in neoprene pouches - I still consider using them only for transport, but leaving them in a hotel room):
All what comes inside:
With a possible compact large format (4x5) equipment. Of course - you need to carry your tripod in your hand (or over your shoulder):
************
So - that is my attempt to bring you a review. I will be happy to answer your questions or add more photos upon request. Just be fast - I am off for a 3 week long vacation on 20th
Matus
Well-known
Images that didi not fit:
Front view II:
Top-side view:
Front view II:
Top-side view:
degruyl
Just this guy, you know?
These are my favorite messenger bags. I have two, both currently being used for cameras.
The last and last. And last. My first one is 10 (or so) years old, and I have the camera insert for it. I bought another to use as a messenger bag... which now has cameras living in it as well.
The standard size inside pockets hold 3-4 4x5 filmholders.
The last and last. And last. My first one is 10 (or so) years old, and I have the camera insert for it. I bought another to use as a messenger bag... which now has cameras living in it as well.
The standard size inside pockets hold 3-4 4x5 filmholders.
nickdando
Established
It's almost exactly the same as the Bare Bones Bag. It has a zip and some plastic clips to hold the front flap in place, but apart from those additions, I can't see a great deal of difference. The BBB was made by Courierware, so perhaps they've realised there's a demand direct from the source.
I'm happy with the BBB, which I use for an M6 and an R-D1 with a few lenses, batteries, SD Cards and film. But as I also have a Tachihara 4x5, and don't wish to lug around a huge LowePro backpack, it may be worth investigating.
http://figitalrevolution.com/bare-bones-bag-camera-bag-leica-lomo-lca-zeiss-rangefinder/
Nick
I'm happy with the BBB, which I use for an M6 and an R-D1 with a few lenses, batteries, SD Cards and film. But as I also have a Tachihara 4x5, and don't wish to lug around a huge LowePro backpack, it may be worth investigating.
http://figitalrevolution.com/bare-bones-bag-camera-bag-leica-lomo-lca-zeiss-rangefinder/
Nick
Bruin
Noktonian
I've been using a Courierware deluxe courier for years as an everyday bag. They're made in the USA and one of the lightest messenger bags you can find since they don't have a vinyl liner.
As a camera bag it's versatility is outstanding. The three inside pockets are big enough to each hold an RF w/ short lens. If I want padding for a lens I add an Optech Snoot Boot to the pocket. If I want a full insert I add a Tenba Photo Insert (also very lightweight). If I only want a padded bottom, I stick a piece of foam sleeping pad on the bottom. Truly a great bag for me.
As a camera bag it's versatility is outstanding. The three inside pockets are big enough to each hold an RF w/ short lens. If I want padding for a lens I add an Optech Snoot Boot to the pocket. If I want a full insert I add a Tenba Photo Insert (also very lightweight). If I only want a padded bottom, I stick a piece of foam sleeping pad on the bottom. Truly a great bag for me.
David Hegar
Established
Matus: Thank you for sharing the review. If you don't mind me asking, what is the final price for that bag?
Matus
Well-known
Hello david, no problem - it was $160 without shipping (and taxes). The customization cost was $35 out of the total sum. The bag itself cost $105 + $10 for the handle and $10 for the shoulder pad.
furcafe
Mentor
Nice review. I have 1 of Courierware's original messenger bags w/the older camera modifications & while I prefer Chrome bags nowadays, it's good to see that Courierware has continued to improve their products (e.g., back when I bought mine, there was no handle option). I also have the padded insert for cameras & it's nicely made, though pretty heavy (not sure if the current version is still as hefty).
David Hegar
Established
Thank you, Matus.
I was looking at Courierware website and noticed that they have Super Deluxe bag which they claimed has more pockets than the Deluxe model.
Care to share the insights as why you chose to modify the Deluxe over the Super Delux model?
I'm just trying to figure out the more cost effective way to do it...to modify Deluxe or just get the unmodified Super Deluxe with more pockets.
Thanks, Matus.
-David
I was looking at Courierware website and noticed that they have Super Deluxe bag which they claimed has more pockets than the Deluxe model.
Care to share the insights as why you chose to modify the Deluxe over the Super Delux model?
I'm just trying to figure out the more cost effective way to do it...to modify Deluxe or just get the unmodified Super Deluxe with more pockets.
Thanks, Matus.
-David
Matus
Well-known
Hello, I am back from 3 week long vacation (had a great time) and have some updates for you.
First of all - David - I actually did choose the Super Deluxe version - the one with most inner pockets.
So - I have used the bag daily during my whole vacation in Spain to carry the gear I have mentioned above. Mostly the 1 liter bottle water came along. At that point the bag got a bit heavier than I liked, but if it was balanced on the other shoulder with a tripod it was fine again (keep in mind that I am no exactly built like a Hercules with mine 75 kg and 175 cm).
I kept pretty much the same content of the pockets as shown above with the exception that the large inner pocket with velcro was used for spare and exposed film (and the lens hoods for 50 and 75 lenses) and I kept the camera with a lens mounted in the main compartment.
Apart from the Mamiya 6 setup I have also carried a small P&S camera (Fuji Silvi F2.8 with 25-50 zoom) and it did fit inside too. I have used the external flat back pocket for cable release and some small items like pocket sized sun cream and pack of paper handkerchiefs that fit in the corners and did not get in the way.
The handle of the bag proved very practical - especially when handling the bag and taking it of (after a cross carry). As the bag can be folded flat when empty it was easy to put it inside a check-in luggage. I have used a backpack for carry-on as I needed to fit a tripod inside it too.
As I have used the clasps - I kept the velcro "disabled" with 2 strips of additional velcro. Next time I would probably order the bag without it. I found that the clasps kept the bag securely closed.
The bag shows no wear - as expected. Importantly - the outer material is smooth/soft enough not to scratch your hips or damage you clothing. The Tatonka shoulder pad worked reasonably well, though it could be a bit softer (thicker) and 1 - 2 inches longer. But it never slipped off.
I can now only say that the bag has just the right size for the gear I bough it for. If one would use it for 35mm RF it would be a bit too large. The bag should work fine also with a 35mm SLR setup (not tried yet).
First of all - David - I actually did choose the Super Deluxe version - the one with most inner pockets.
So - I have used the bag daily during my whole vacation in Spain to carry the gear I have mentioned above. Mostly the 1 liter bottle water came along. At that point the bag got a bit heavier than I liked, but if it was balanced on the other shoulder with a tripod it was fine again (keep in mind that I am no exactly built like a Hercules with mine 75 kg and 175 cm).
I kept pretty much the same content of the pockets as shown above with the exception that the large inner pocket with velcro was used for spare and exposed film (and the lens hoods for 50 and 75 lenses) and I kept the camera with a lens mounted in the main compartment.
Apart from the Mamiya 6 setup I have also carried a small P&S camera (Fuji Silvi F2.8 with 25-50 zoom) and it did fit inside too. I have used the external flat back pocket for cable release and some small items like pocket sized sun cream and pack of paper handkerchiefs that fit in the corners and did not get in the way.
The handle of the bag proved very practical - especially when handling the bag and taking it of (after a cross carry). As the bag can be folded flat when empty it was easy to put it inside a check-in luggage. I have used a backpack for carry-on as I needed to fit a tripod inside it too.
As I have used the clasps - I kept the velcro "disabled" with 2 strips of additional velcro. Next time I would probably order the bag without it. I found that the clasps kept the bag securely closed.
The bag shows no wear - as expected. Importantly - the outer material is smooth/soft enough not to scratch your hips or damage you clothing. The Tatonka shoulder pad worked reasonably well, though it could be a bit softer (thicker) and 1 - 2 inches longer. But it never slipped off.
I can now only say that the bag has just the right size for the gear I bough it for. If one would use it for 35mm RF it would be a bit too large. The bag should work fine also with a 35mm SLR setup (not tried yet).
MCTuomey
Mentor
matus, your update is much appreciated, thanks for checking back in. and glad to hear your trip went well!
David Hegar
Established
I appreciate your update based on real life use, Matus, so thank you!