I have been using a Viper Rucksack for several months now, and have found it to be a great solution to a common problem faced by photographers who use large telephoto lenses...

Product Overview

Overall rating:

90%
Overall score:90%

Pros:

  • The only bag that can carry three cameras with lenses attached

Cons:

  • Very heavy when fully loaded

Product:

Viper Rucksack

Price as reviewed:

£299.00

I have been using a Viper Rucksack for several months now, and have found it to be a great solution to a common problem faced by photographers who use large telephoto lenses. Nature photographers in particular need to be able to react instantly to situations as soon as they present themselves – otherwise that decisive moment might be lost. It’s always frustrating to miss a great action shot simply because my gear isn’t set up in time! And obviously I also need to be able to carry my heavy camera equipment in comfort.

The Viper is the first photo rucksack to accomplish both these requirements, enabling me to store three camera set-ups ready for action with camera bodies attached to lenses and all lens hoods extended. The main compartment holds a 500mm f/4 or 400mm f/2.8 telephoto lens (it will also hold a 600mm f/4 lens with the lens hood reversed). One side pocket is large enough to hold a pro camera body attached to a 300mm f/2.8 lens, while the other side pocket holds a camera body attached to a 70-200mm f/2.8mm lens.

Each section of the bag is well padded and very quick to access, and I can be shooting within a few seconds of removing the bag from my back. Another benefit of carrying camera bodies pre-attached to lenses is the reduced chance of damage from dust or moisture ingress when photographing in harsh weather conditions and environments.

When empty the bag is surprisingly lightweight, but its dimensions mean that it will never conform to aircraft carry-on restrictions. However, when travelling overseas it would safely store a tripod and clothing in the aircraft hold.

Available from: www.andyrouse.co.uk

Verdict

This is without a doubt the best bag I have used for carrying long telephoto lenses in the field, and I would recommend it to any photographers who regularly carry this type of equipment and need to access it quickly.