Plenty of room for a DSLR
and lots of gear.
The main chamber can be accessed by opening the zippered panel fully, giving access to the entire compartment; or in a top-load-fashion, allowing quick access to your camera. This designed choice of access I welcomed as previously I used a sling-bag that permitted only top-down access to my gear. This was fine when I needed only the camera itself. But if I wanted another lens or memory card, I had to burrow through the different levels. The AW300 eliminates this hassle-factor and is very convenient for regular use.
...well-built and comfortable
The upper chamber follows the curve of the bag and is essentially a large open area with a couple of netting pockets for securing loose items. This is big enough to hold a second smaller camera, but not another DSL; though a body sans lens might fit. I was slightly disappointed that given the size of the AW300 that there was not a good place to keep an assembled second DSLR or prosumer model. For some shoots this forced me to carry an extra bag for the second camera.
Finally, the outer pocket is roomy and moderately expandable for overfilling. It has a divided area for holding pens, tools, memory cards, etc.
Overall the Lowepro SlingShot AW300 is well-built and comfortable to carry. It offers protection, plenty of room, and easy access for a single DSLR and loads of gear. The AW300 retails for $137.99 and is well worth every penny. Two smaller models, the AW100 ($82.99) and AW200 ($109.99) are also available. Understandably photographyvoice.com easily gives the SlingShot AW300 a rating of
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
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Strengths
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Weaknesses
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- Well padded, comfortable to wear.
- Lots of room for gear.
- Solid design and construction.
- Use as a top-loader or access fully.
- Excellent value for the money.
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- Difficult to make room for a second DSLR.
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