The black 5502 Explorer 2 Case is a compact shoulder bag for carrying and protecting a DSLR camera with a 4" lens attached, a few additional lenses, a flash and accessories. The main compartment uses Dual Foam Technology for shock protection and a custom fit. An external front pocket features a Memory & Battery Management System, which uses red flags to identify which memory cards and batteries are available and which ones are used up. There is a Speed Pocket on the front flap secures and provides quick access to small accessories.
A Total Coverage Top with quick-release buckle and zipper closures provides weather protection. Inside the lid is a smooth nylon pocket for holding lens cleaning paper.There is a BioCurve adjustable non slip shoulder strap, EasyGrip carrying handle and belt loops to provide convenient carrying options for the Micro Explorer.
The 5502 case use the M.A.S. Modular Accessory System attachment slots and the S.A.S. Strap Accessory System that allows you to add optional Tamrac accessories.
| Material |
Exterior: PolyTek is a smooth, very tightly woven, extremely strong and double coated fabric to provide superior weatherproofing. Interior: Dual Foam Technology combines closed-cell foam to provide maximum shock protection with open-cell foam for vibration dampening and a custom fit. |
| Type of Closure |
Quick release buckle Zipper |
| Exterior Dimensions | 9.5 x 7.25 x 9.0" (24.13 x 18.41 x 22.86 cm) (WxDxH) |
| Interior Dimensions | 8.25 x 5.0 x 7.75" (20.96 x 12.7 x 19.7 cm) (WxDxH) |
| Tripod Holder | No |
| Accommodates | DSLR with a 4" lens attached, a few extra lenses, a flash and accessories |
| Carrying/Transport Options |
BioCurve adjustable non slip shoulder strap EasyGrip carrying handle |
| Weight | 1.0 lb 6.3 oz (632.19g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
Most Liked Positive Review
Perfect for my needs.
This case works exactly as I thought it would for my needs. In the main compartment are my Rebel T1i, the 28 - 105 mm telephoto lens (attached) and my 100mm Macro Lens ...Read complete review
This case works exactly as I thought it would for my needs. In the main compartment are my Rebel T1i, the 28 - 105 mm telephoto lens (attached) and my 100mm Macro Lens along with my gorilla tripod (with one leg detached). In the other compartments are all the accesories for my camera, cards, battery charger, manual, and cables with space to spare. I was even able to fit the bag's strap (since I don't think I'll be using it but you never know) within the main compartment so I'll always have it with me. And nothing is really crammed in there where I would have to take everything out to be able to get to it, its all very easily accessible.
Everything seems well protected as far as padding goes and I'm very confident that nothing will get in (water, dust etc) to damage my equipment.
The only real problem I have with it is with the strap that attaches the top cover. While I like the clip and how easy it is to do and undo, there is no way to tighten that strap and it seems it was left slightly long. This means that if I leave the main compartment unzipped but clip the top cover over there is a good 2 inches of space between the cover and the top zipper on the bag. That extra leeway could give my equipment just enough room to be jostled around. If there were some way of tightening that strap I would be able to cinch it down but there is none, therefor I will rarely leave the bag unzipped.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Too small for my needs
[...]I have a Nikon D5000 with a 18-55mm lens and a 300mm lens. I also wanted room for a an extra battery, charger, misc. cords, and a filter. This...Read complete review
[...]I have a Nikon D5000 with a 18-55mm lens and a 300mm lens. I also wanted room for a an extra battery, charger, misc. cords, and a filter. This case would not hold my camera and lens safely, in my opinion. The 300mm lens would fit, but it was tight on all sides and left little room for other items. Also, not as much padding as I expected. [...]This would work without the extra lens.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 35 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
Perfect for my 60D, however can't fit all three of my lenses in the bag with accessories. Camera with attached lens, additional lens, accessories, full.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
Flexible
Good value for money
Well constructed
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
I used when I need four o less equipment
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
Nice little travel bag, but could only fit a couple extra lenses or a lens and a flash... so it doesn't accommodate a whole lot, but its easy access to the camera, and its good to take on hikes and whatnot.. or if you simply don't have more than one or two extra smaller lenses.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
The Case is quite new, it looks durable and strong but not so convenient to operate.
Its price is lower than in other cases, is worth the consideration he gives up his price.
I'm pretty happy with portfolio in the short time I use it.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
I bought this for my mom who has a larger Tamrac bag, but wanted something smaller. She really liked the size, unfortunately, it was just a bit too small to fit her 12" x 12" handle that she attaches to her camera (I wasn't aware that she had an add-on handle when I bought this). The bag itself is nice, well made, it just didn't fit the extra handle that she needs to take with her. If she (or I) needed a bag for just the camera and several lens, I'd buy this bag again.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
I carry three zoom lenses and a DSLR camera body as well as battery charger, cables and other bits and pieces. It is a snug fit, but still a compact size bag to carry all my gear, which is what I wanted.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
When I bought my camera this bag came with it. When I saw it online it looked a lot bigger than it really is. It may be a decent bag for a trip that may last an afternoon but for long term use I knew I wouldn't like it as much. The biggest problem I had was that I felt like the underlying compartments were hard to get to.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
This case is fantastic! Plenty of room for everything and lots of pockets to make sure everything is organized and easy to find. Can carry everything without becoming too heavy.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
This case works exactly as I thought it would for my needs. In the main compartment are my Rebel T1i, the 28 - 105 mm telephoto lens (attached) and my 100mm Macro Lens along with my gorilla tripod (with one leg detached). In the other compartments are all the accesories for my camera, cards, battery charger, manual, and cables with space to spare. I was even able to fit the bag's strap (since I don't think I'll be using it but you never know) within the main compartment so I'll always have it with me. And nothing is really crammed in there where I would have to take everything out to be able to get to it, its all very easily accessible.
Everything seems well protected as far as padding goes and I'm very confident that nothing will get in (water, dust etc) to damage my equipment.
The only real problem I have with it is with the strap that attaches the top cover. While I like the clip and how easy it is to do and undo, there is no way to tighten that strap and it seems it was left slightly long. This means that if I leave the main compartment unzipped but clip the top cover over there is a good 2 inches of space between the cover and the top zipper on the bag. That extra leeway could give my equipment just enough room to be jostled around. If there were some way of tightening that strap I would be able to cinch it down but there is none, therefor I will rarely leave the bag unzipped.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
Recently purchased this explorer case for my new Canon T2i and lenses. The bag fit my 3 lenses comfortably (kit lens, macro, and super-wide angle) and will comfortably hold an additional lens or accessories. Super lightweight and comfortable during a recent shoot in a busy city.
Only annoyance at this point is the awkwardness of lifting the flap up and out of the way of the zipper. Definitely not a quick process if trying to get your gear out to catch a shot.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
This bag was great for taking the camera and extras for vacation. My husband did have some difficulty with the buckle.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
It has room for everything I need but is a bit cumbersome.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
Upon looking at the case, it looks fairly large, thinking it will have a lot of space to store things, but after opening it, it really doesn't. However, this isn't a bag that is going to store 2+ body's and 4-5 lens. Being just a hobby and not a career, I just needed a soft case to travel with my single body, 50mm lens and 75-300mm lens. It's more of just a day pack so I did not put all the other accessories I have in it, but it does comfortably fit the body with the 75-300 lens attached, with the 50mm lens in a side pocket. It does have a front pocket that has enough room for memory cards and a spare battery with the charger and there was enough room inside of the case on the side opposite of the 50mm lens for possibly another smaller lens or whatever you may want there. It's sturdy and the gear would be protected from a drop if it fell from my shoulder. Overall, a good day pack for the hobbyist, just be aware you can't fit the kitchen sink in it and that you will most likely have to leave things at home.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
I bought this case through the Canon EOS T1i kit [...] The bag is much larger than I wanted it to be (about twice the size of the camera+lens).Unless you plan to carry multiple lenses with this bag, it is just too bulky for a casual photographer like myself. I plan to buy something much smaller.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
Another pocket would be nice about 4x5 2" thick. Just enought to slide my video camera in also
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
[...]I have a Nikon D5000 with a 18-55mm lens and a 300mm lens. I also wanted room for a an extra battery, charger, misc. cords, and a filter. This case would not hold my camera and lens safely, in my opinion. The 300mm lens would fit, but it was tight on all sides and left little room for other items. Also, not as much padding as I expected. [...]This would work without the extra lens.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
I got this when i bought my new Canon Digital SLR
Has lots of pockets and great padding and protect just seems little large...i purchased a separate smaller case for hiking.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
I received this bag with a DSLR kit. Also purchased a slingshot 102 to go along with it and glad i did. I really don't like the way the explorer opens on top. Its like you have to unfold backwards the top, then undo the zipper. Maybe I'm being picky, but for the extra 30 bucks for the slingshot, to me, it was well worth it. Going to sell the explorer when i get a chance.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
Holds a Canon 7D and 28-135 w/hood and a Crumpler shoulder strap but not much else. It works for me since I was not planning on carrying an additional lens. Without the heavy duty strap and hood, you could fit in another lens (or two - long and short?). With a smaller body camera, additional lenses and accessories should not be a problem. Hard to beat the level of protection for the price.
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
Most Liked Positive Review
Perfect for my needs.
This case works exactly as I thought it would for my needs. In the main compartment are my Rebel T1i, the 28 - 105 mm telephoto lens (attached) and my 100mm Macro Lens ...Read complete review
This case works exactly as I thought it would for my needs. In the main compartment are my Rebel T1i, the 28 - 105 mm telephoto lens (attached) and my 100mm Macro Lens along with my gorilla tripod (with one leg detached). In the other compartments are all the accesories for my camera, cards, battery charger, manual, and cables with space to spare. I was even able to fit the bag's strap (since I don't think I'll be using it but you never know) within the main compartment so I'll always have it with me. And nothing is really crammed in there where I would have to take everything out to be able to get to it, its all very easily accessible.
Everything seems well protected as far as padding goes and I'm very confident that nothing will get in (water, dust etc) to damage my equipment.
The only real problem I have with it is with the strap that attaches the top cover. While I like the clip and how easy it is to do and undo, there is no way to tighten that strap and it seems it was left slightly long. This means that if I leave the main compartment unzipped but clip the top cover over there is a good 2 inches of space between the cover and the top zipper on the bag. That extra leeway could give my equipment just enough room to be jostled around. If there were some way of tightening that strap I would be able to cinch it down but there is none, therefor I will rarely leave the bag unzipped.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Too small for my needs
[...]I have a Nikon D5000 with a 18-55mm lens and a 300mm lens. I also wanted room for a an extra battery, charger, misc. cords, and a filter. This...Read complete review
[...]I have a Nikon D5000 with a 18-55mm lens and a 300mm lens. I also wanted room for a an extra battery, charger, misc. cords, and a filter. This case would not hold my camera and lens safely, in my opinion. The 300mm lens would fit, but it was tight on all sides and left little room for other items. Also, not as much padding as I expected. [...]This would work without the extra lens.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 35 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
Perfect for my 60D, however can't fit all three of my lenses in the bag with accessories. Camera with attached lens, additional lens, accessories, full.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
Flexible
Good value for money
Well constructed
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
I used when I need four o less equipment
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
Nice little travel bag, but could only fit a couple extra lenses or a lens and a flash... so it doesn't accommodate a whole lot, but its easy access to the camera, and its good to take on hikes and whatnot.. or if you simply don't have more than one or two extra smaller lenses.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
The Case is quite new, it looks durable and strong but not so convenient to operate.
Its price is lower than in other cases, is worth the consideration he gives up his price.
I'm pretty happy with portfolio in the short time I use it.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
I bought this for my mom who has a larger Tamrac bag, but wanted something smaller. She really liked the size, unfortunately, it was just a bit too small to fit her 12" x 12" handle that she attaches to her camera (I wasn't aware that she had an add-on handle when I bought this). The bag itself is nice, well made, it just didn't fit the extra handle that she needs to take with her. If she (or I) needed a bag for just the camera and several lens, I'd buy this bag again.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
I carry three zoom lenses and a DSLR camera body as well as battery charger, cables and other bits and pieces. It is a snug fit, but still a compact size bag to carry all my gear, which is what I wanted.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
When I bought my camera this bag came with it. When I saw it online it looked a lot bigger than it really is. It may be a decent bag for a trip that may last an afternoon but for long term use I knew I wouldn't like it as much. The biggest problem I had was that I felt like the underlying compartments were hard to get to.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
This case is fantastic! Plenty of room for everything and lots of pockets to make sure everything is organized and easy to find. Can carry everything without becoming too heavy.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
This case works exactly as I thought it would for my needs. In the main compartment are my Rebel T1i, the 28 - 105 mm telephoto lens (attached) and my 100mm Macro Lens along with my gorilla tripod (with one leg detached). In the other compartments are all the accesories for my camera, cards, battery charger, manual, and cables with space to spare. I was even able to fit the bag's strap (since I don't think I'll be using it but you never know) within the main compartment so I'll always have it with me. And nothing is really crammed in there where I would have to take everything out to be able to get to it, its all very easily accessible.
Everything seems well protected as far as padding goes and I'm very confident that nothing will get in (water, dust etc) to damage my equipment.
The only real problem I have with it is with the strap that attaches the top cover. While I like the clip and how easy it is to do and undo, there is no way to tighten that strap and it seems it was left slightly long. This means that if I leave the main compartment unzipped but clip the top cover over there is a good 2 inches of space between the cover and the top zipper on the bag. That extra leeway could give my equipment just enough room to be jostled around. If there were some way of tightening that strap I would be able to cinch it down but there is none, therefor I will rarely leave the bag unzipped.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
Recently purchased this explorer case for my new Canon T2i and lenses. The bag fit my 3 lenses comfortably (kit lens, macro, and super-wide angle) and will comfortably hold an additional lens or accessories. Super lightweight and comfortable during a recent shoot in a busy city.
Only annoyance at this point is the awkwardness of lifting the flap up and out of the way of the zipper. Definitely not a quick process if trying to get your gear out to catch a shot.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
This bag was great for taking the camera and extras for vacation. My husband did have some difficulty with the buckle.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
It has room for everything I need but is a bit cumbersome.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
Upon looking at the case, it looks fairly large, thinking it will have a lot of space to store things, but after opening it, it really doesn't. However, this isn't a bag that is going to store 2+ body's and 4-5 lens. Being just a hobby and not a career, I just needed a soft case to travel with my single body, 50mm lens and 75-300mm lens. It's more of just a day pack so I did not put all the other accessories I have in it, but it does comfortably fit the body with the 75-300 lens attached, with the 50mm lens in a side pocket. It does have a front pocket that has enough room for memory cards and a spare battery with the charger and there was enough room inside of the case on the side opposite of the 50mm lens for possibly another smaller lens or whatever you may want there. It's sturdy and the gear would be protected from a drop if it fell from my shoulder. Overall, a good day pack for the hobbyist, just be aware you can't fit the kitchen sink in it and that you will most likely have to leave things at home.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
I bought this case through the Canon EOS T1i kit [...] The bag is much larger than I wanted it to be (about twice the size of the camera+lens).Unless you plan to carry multiple lenses with this bag, it is just too bulky for a casual photographer like myself. I plan to buy something much smaller.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
Another pocket would be nice about 4x5 2" thick. Just enought to slide my video camera in also
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
[...]I have a Nikon D5000 with a 18-55mm lens and a 300mm lens. I also wanted room for a an extra battery, charger, misc. cords, and a filter. This case would not hold my camera and lens safely, in my opinion. The 300mm lens would fit, but it was tight on all sides and left little room for other items. Also, not as much padding as I expected. [...]This would work without the extra lens.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
I got this when i bought my new Canon Digital SLR
Has lots of pockets and great padding and protect just seems little large...i purchased a separate smaller case for hiking.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
I received this bag with a DSLR kit. Also purchased a slingshot 102 to go along with it and glad i did. I really don't like the way the explorer opens on top. Its like you have to unfold backwards the top, then undo the zipper. Maybe I'm being picky, but for the extra 30 bucks for the slingshot, to me, it was well worth it. Going to sell the explorer when i get a chance.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tamrac 5502 Explorer 2 Case (Black):
Holds a Canon 7D and 28-135 w/hood and a Crumpler shoulder strap but not much else. It works for me since I was not planning on carrying an additional lens. Without the heavy duty strap and hood, you could fit in another lens (or two - long and short?). With a smaller body camera, additional lenses and accessories should not be a problem. Hard to beat the level of protection for the price.