Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

The Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag is well built and provides good protection for my camera and lens. I use a Lowepro Pro Runner 350 AW Backpack to carry my full kit. However, there are shoots where I know I will only need one body and a lens or two. I also wanted a padded bag that suspended the camera so that it did not rest on the lens. The Top Loader Pro does that. It works well when I know what equipment I need and don't want to carry a more complete kit. I've used it with a 5D3 with a 17mm T-S attached and a cased 24mm attached to the bag.

There is a velcro-like divider that you can reposition to better support your camera. Otherwise the camera compartment is empty. There is one strap for connecting a Lowepro lens case. It is more suitable for smaller lenses though I've also used it to carry a 70-200mm. There are several small pockets convenient for small unobtrusive items.

The carrying system is a bit odd. There is a handle attached to one side of the bag which works well but feels more awkward than if the handle was centered over the bag. I expect this placement was designed to allow you to remove the camera one-handed while holding the bag with the other. However, it tips the opening 45 degrees to horizontal so if you fumble with grabbing the camera, it can easily be dropped. The carry strap is designed strictly for across the body carry. Placing it just on your shoulder makes it uncomfortable to carry and less accessible. Using it as designed, the Top Loader Pro does an excellent job placing the camera where you can easily access it.

The Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag functions more like a holster providing quick access to you camera to get a shot that you might otherwise miss. However, grabbing the camera with your right hand, pushing your fingers between the divider and the camera "handle" and pulling it out imposes a risk of dropping the camera as the strap is not yet around your neck and your grip may not be well established. The additional stabilization strap works well at stabilizing the bag and increasing your geek rating by wearing it.

The bag works well for those who don't want or can't use a chest-mounted contraption; don't want a utility belt or special vest to hang, suspend, or otherwise attach a camera and lens, or; don't want to spend outrageous sums for specialized or custom devices for quick access to a camera.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

I've backpacked extensively with this bag. Through the mountains of France and Italy. The Grand Canyon and mountains of Colorado. It holds my D300 and D700s with a short lens attached. It's too short of a bag for the 16-35 f/4 but the 17-35 f/2.8 works.

I attach this bag to the shoulder straps of my backpacks with adjustable Think Tank clip on straps. To keep the bag from swinging forward I run a pack strap from one of the bag's lower D-rings to the lower side of my backpack. Only one side is required, which allows me to drop my backpack to the other side without having to disconnect the Top Loader.

In use, this bag allows for very quick access to the camera, yet providing a lot of protection for it at the same time. The top flap can be left unzipped and unclipped but if so, be careful. I almost tripped on a rock which pitched me forward at the waist sending my DSLR tumbling along down the trail. This was my fault for not zipping the top of the bag closed. The same thing would have happed with every other top loader that I'm familiar with.

The only down side to this setup is that it's pretty darned big. I have the next size up coming for use with the 16-35 f/4 and can't wait to see how enormous the 70 AW is. You can't get away from this though. The Top Loader Pro 65 AW accepts a pro body with drive and attached pro lens; there's no way the bag can do that and be small.

To close this top loader is loaded with features that matter and it's built to last.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

I purchased this bag to use with my S&F technical belt, but was disappointed that the belt loop on this size bag is too small for the technical belt. The other Lowepro top loader bags appear to have larger belt loops that will work. However, I was able to make this bag work with my configuration by using the extra straps that come with the technical belt to hang the bag from my belt towards my back. While not ideal, it works reasonably well and allows me quick and easy access to my equipment and wear a camelback or backpack while hiking.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

I really like this bag, but I think its weird that it was clearly designed to be slung over the left shoulder. You can sling it over either should but for the waist strap to work right and for it to hang well, it only really works on the left. I would like a little more organization in the main compartment as well. I really like the easy access, the space and the many hooks, loops and pockets.

I have a GH2 in there with the 14-140 lens. It would easily fit another 14-140 lens or 2 smaller primes, though not isolated very well. I like the D-loops for attaching to a pack. Lowe Pro will sell you a kit to do it but you really just need a couple of cheap keyring carabiners, or small wiregates. Its heavy but sturdy and tough, i wouldn't want to crash on it, but if it fell off onto the ground i wouldn't worry about it.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

I have been looking for a camera bag without a lot of bells and whistles....and, not too big. Generally, when I'm out and about, I like to shoot with my Canon SLR and a single zoom lens. So, I don't need, or want, a big bag. The Toploader Pro 65 works perfectly for my needs. I have room for my camera, along with extra batteries, flash cards, and charger. A really great feature is the way the bag opens. It is equipped with rings on both zippers. With this feature, you don't have to hold on to a zipper, but simply put your finger through the ring and....zip. It is an effortless design, something I think they should put on all bags. I also like the rigidity of the bag....better protection for the camera. I give this bag 5 stars.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

If you're like me, you've gone through every case from every brand and didn't stop till you found the exact one for your needs. Maybe you even had the perfect bag, returned it, and bought it back again. That's exactly how it was for me. When I first bought the bag, I wasn't using the velcro "shelf" and was just dropping the camera in lens first. Although it seemed like this was a good fit, I felt that I was forcing the bag on a camera that was too large for it. Little did I know that with the proper positioning of said shelf ( attach to the inside of the buckle wall), it would make for a tailored fit for my D7000 with MBD11 grip. I've got the kit lens on it right now, but it will easily fit the 18-200 as well. This bag is peeerfect for those of you that do not want to remove your grip for any reason at all. This was my one condition for a bag and it was perfectly met by the 65 AW. BUY IT NOW you won't regret it- I'm saving you a lot of headaches.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

Perfect fit with primes or other small lenses on pro camera.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

fits my new nikon d7000 perfectly. i have the generic 18-105 lens

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

- Well constructed- Good attachment points (D-rings, etc.)- All weather cover/water resistant- Well paddedNo negative comments yet, but overall, I continue to be happy with Lowepro.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

Using the bag with a Canon Rebel T1i and a 24-105mm lens and the chest harness. It's perfect fit when skiing in the backcountry when you need both your hands for the ski poles! Not too big on the chest, the only draw-back is that the lens hood need to be retracted.

We'll need a bigger bag (like the 75AW) if using the 70-200 f2.8, but for the moment it's perfect!

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

Top notch build quality. Great usability. Oriented differently from most other bags. So It will take a while to get used to it.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

Got this bag after buying the Pro 75 AW bag. The Pro 75 takes a Canon 1D body with a 70-200 or a 100-400 lens, but a bit large for smaller lenses. This bag fits perfectly for a 1D body and a 50, 35 or a 24mm lens. A few small pockets to carry memory cards etc. is nice too. Actually, I also got the Pro 70 bag for use with the 1D body and a 135 or a 100mm Macro lens.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

Well built, easy and quick access to the camera.
A little bulky.
I'm using it with a Canon T2i camera and 18-135mm lens attached and it fits well, there's still some room left inside. It would still fit perfectly if I were using a battery grip.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

The new models are smaller in size compared to the older models.I find that my Canon 10D with battery grip is a tight fit in the new bag it is approx. 1/2"
smaller left to right and top to bottom inside than the older model Pro 65AW that I have been using for about 4years.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

I have a lot of bags by LowePro and Crumpler, yet this one remains my favorite.

The best part about it is its size. It's difficult to find a small-ish bag that will handle a pro-sized SLR and prime lens, but this one works perfectly. It fits my Canon 1V-HS with an 85 f/1.2 II attached. Even with this in the bag, I can still fit a digital point-and-shoot in the top flap compartment, and a few rolls of film in the side zippered pockets.

It is well-constructed with durable material and heavy duty zippers. The zipper pulls are also a nice touch: they are not likely to break or accidentally come off. The padded strap is comfortable and I can walk around for hours without experiencing too much discomfort.

In short, this bag is well-constructed and I would not hesitate in buying it (or one of the other sizes) again. My only caution would be for SLR-users that _don't_ have a battery grip attached: this bag may be slightly too big for your needs if finding the smallest bag for your camera is your primary goal.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

Excellent bag. Perfect for my D300 Nikon and 18-200VR or 105 Micro Nikkor VR or smaller lens. Ergonomics are very good. External quick snap so you don't have to zip it if don't want to.
Quality built. I'd rather use this if I want to travel light. Still plenty of room for small accessories.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

I love this bag. easily holds my Xsi with Grip and I can attach either my 16-35mm 2.8, 24-70 2.8 or 50mm 1.4. There is no room to hold an additional lens, but that is not what the case was made for. Holds your camera with grip plus 1 lens, in the smallest & most protective case you can have. I love it for the size & portability. If you have a 40d, 50d or even 5d you will need the next size up for any zoom lens, but with a rebel is perfect even with large zooms. I have my fastpack 350 for when I need to take more equiptment, but for when I just need to go, and one lens is fine for the entire day, this is my bag. Also has a few small pockets for emmory cards, lens cloth, credit cards, cash, I even get my in glasses in there & a blower.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

It seems like it was impossible to find a small zoom holster for a body with a battery grip, until now....

After endless searching I finally found the perfect bag for travelling light with my Rebel Xsi, BG-E5 Grip, and Canon 18-200 zoom. The combination fits like a glove with the lens hood reversed. It does however require a little manuevering with the strap to get the zipper to close. With the quick release clasp its no issue.

The bag carries well in many positions, since I do not use the optional cross body strap. It appears very well built up to the typical Lowepro standards and includes the rain cover that is found on other Lowepro models. There is also a bit of room in pockets for stuff like a filter or two, spare battery, Lenspen, even a cell phone. It looks good too, more high end, compared to some of the other basic zoom holsters on the market.

I'm very pleased with this bag and it perfectly fits my needs. I wanted something compact, looked good, and offered quick access, and I found it.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

The Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag is well built and provides good protection for my camera and lens. I use a Lowepro Pro Runner 350 AW Backpack to carry my full kit. However, there are shoots where I know I will only need one body and a lens or two. I also wanted a padded bag that suspended the camera so that it did not rest on the lens. The Top Loader Pro does that. It works well when I know what equipment I need and don't want to carry a more complete kit. I've used it with a 5D3 with a 17mm T-S attached and a cased 24mm attached to the bag.

There is a velcro-like divider that you can reposition to better support your camera. Otherwise the camera compartment is empty. There is one strap for connecting a Lowepro lens case. It is more suitable for smaller lenses though I've also used it to carry a 70-200mm. There are several small pockets convenient for small unobtrusive items.

The carrying system is a bit odd. There is a handle attached to one side of the bag which works well but feels more awkward than if the handle was centered over the bag. I expect this placement was designed to allow you to remove the camera one-handed while holding the bag with the other. However, it tips the opening 45 degrees to horizontal so if you fumble with grabbing the camera, it can easily be dropped. The carry strap is designed strictly for across the body carry. Placing it just on your shoulder makes it uncomfortable to carry and less accessible. Using it as designed, the Top Loader Pro does an excellent job placing the camera where you can easily access it.

The Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag functions more like a holster providing quick access to you camera to get a shot that you might otherwise miss. However, grabbing the camera with your right hand, pushing your fingers between the divider and the camera "handle" and pulling it out imposes a risk of dropping the camera as the strap is not yet around your neck and your grip may not be well established. The additional stabilization strap works well at stabilizing the bag and increasing your geek rating by wearing it.

The bag works well for those who don't want or can't use a chest-mounted contraption; don't want a utility belt or special vest to hang, suspend, or otherwise attach a camera and lens, or; don't want to spend outrageous sums for specialized or custom devices for quick access to a camera.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

I've backpacked extensively with this bag. Through the mountains of France and Italy. The Grand Canyon and mountains of Colorado. It holds my D300 and D700s with a short lens attached. It's too short of a bag for the 16-35 f/4 but the 17-35 f/2.8 works.

I attach this bag to the shoulder straps of my backpacks with adjustable Think Tank clip on straps. To keep the bag from swinging forward I run a pack strap from one of the bag's lower D-rings to the lower side of my backpack. Only one side is required, which allows me to drop my backpack to the other side without having to disconnect the Top Loader.

In use, this bag allows for very quick access to the camera, yet providing a lot of protection for it at the same time. The top flap can be left unzipped and unclipped but if so, be careful. I almost tripped on a rock which pitched me forward at the waist sending my DSLR tumbling along down the trail. This was my fault for not zipping the top of the bag closed. The same thing would have happed with every other top loader that I'm familiar with.

The only down side to this setup is that it's pretty darned big. I have the next size up coming for use with the 16-35 f/4 and can't wait to see how enormous the 70 AW is. You can't get away from this though. The Top Loader Pro 65 AW accepts a pro body with drive and attached pro lens; there's no way the bag can do that and be small.

To close this top loader is loaded with features that matter and it's built to last.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

I purchased this bag to use with my S&F technical belt, but was disappointed that the belt loop on this size bag is too small for the technical belt. The other Lowepro top loader bags appear to have larger belt loops that will work. However, I was able to make this bag work with my configuration by using the extra straps that come with the technical belt to hang the bag from my belt towards my back. While not ideal, it works reasonably well and allows me quick and easy access to my equipment and wear a camelback or backpack while hiking.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

I really like this bag, but I think its weird that it was clearly designed to be slung over the left shoulder. You can sling it over either should but for the waist strap to work right and for it to hang well, it only really works on the left. I would like a little more organization in the main compartment as well. I really like the easy access, the space and the many hooks, loops and pockets.

I have a GH2 in there with the 14-140 lens. It would easily fit another 14-140 lens or 2 smaller primes, though not isolated very well. I like the D-loops for attaching to a pack. Lowe Pro will sell you a kit to do it but you really just need a couple of cheap keyring carabiners, or small wiregates. Its heavy but sturdy and tough, i wouldn't want to crash on it, but if it fell off onto the ground i wouldn't worry about it.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

I have been looking for a camera bag without a lot of bells and whistles....and, not too big. Generally, when I'm out and about, I like to shoot with my Canon SLR and a single zoom lens. So, I don't need, or want, a big bag. The Toploader Pro 65 works perfectly for my needs. I have room for my camera, along with extra batteries, flash cards, and charger. A really great feature is the way the bag opens. It is equipped with rings on both zippers. With this feature, you don't have to hold on to a zipper, but simply put your finger through the ring and....zip. It is an effortless design, something I think they should put on all bags. I also like the rigidity of the bag....better protection for the camera. I give this bag 5 stars.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

If you're like me, you've gone through every case from every brand and didn't stop till you found the exact one for your needs. Maybe you even had the perfect bag, returned it, and bought it back again. That's exactly how it was for me. When I first bought the bag, I wasn't using the velcro "shelf" and was just dropping the camera in lens first. Although it seemed like this was a good fit, I felt that I was forcing the bag on a camera that was too large for it. Little did I know that with the proper positioning of said shelf ( attach to the inside of the buckle wall), it would make for a tailored fit for my D7000 with MBD11 grip. I've got the kit lens on it right now, but it will easily fit the 18-200 as well. This bag is peeerfect for those of you that do not want to remove your grip for any reason at all. This was my one condition for a bag and it was perfectly met by the 65 AW. BUY IT NOW you won't regret it- I'm saving you a lot of headaches.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

Perfect fit with primes or other small lenses on pro camera.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

fits my new nikon d7000 perfectly. i have the generic 18-105 lens

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

- Well constructed- Good attachment points (D-rings, etc.)- All weather cover/water resistant- Well paddedNo negative comments yet, but overall, I continue to be happy with Lowepro.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

Using the bag with a Canon Rebel T1i and a 24-105mm lens and the chest harness. It's perfect fit when skiing in the backcountry when you need both your hands for the ski poles! Not too big on the chest, the only draw-back is that the lens hood need to be retracted.

We'll need a bigger bag (like the 75AW) if using the 70-200 f2.8, but for the moment it's perfect!

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

Top notch build quality. Great usability. Oriented differently from most other bags. So It will take a while to get used to it.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

Got this bag after buying the Pro 75 AW bag. The Pro 75 takes a Canon 1D body with a 70-200 or a 100-400 lens, but a bit large for smaller lenses. This bag fits perfectly for a 1D body and a 50, 35 or a 24mm lens. A few small pockets to carry memory cards etc. is nice too. Actually, I also got the Pro 70 bag for use with the 1D body and a 135 or a 100mm Macro lens.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

Well built, easy and quick access to the camera.
A little bulky.
I'm using it with a Canon T2i camera and 18-135mm lens attached and it fits well, there's still some room left inside. It would still fit perfectly if I were using a battery grip.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

The new models are smaller in size compared to the older models.I find that my Canon 10D with battery grip is a tight fit in the new bag it is approx. 1/2"
smaller left to right and top to bottom inside than the older model Pro 65AW that I have been using for about 4years.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

I have a lot of bags by LowePro and Crumpler, yet this one remains my favorite.

The best part about it is its size. It's difficult to find a small-ish bag that will handle a pro-sized SLR and prime lens, but this one works perfectly. It fits my Canon 1V-HS with an 85 f/1.2 II attached. Even with this in the bag, I can still fit a digital point-and-shoot in the top flap compartment, and a few rolls of film in the side zippered pockets.

It is well-constructed with durable material and heavy duty zippers. The zipper pulls are also a nice touch: they are not likely to break or accidentally come off. The padded strap is comfortable and I can walk around for hours without experiencing too much discomfort.

In short, this bag is well-constructed and I would not hesitate in buying it (or one of the other sizes) again. My only caution would be for SLR-users that _don't_ have a battery grip attached: this bag may be slightly too big for your needs if finding the smallest bag for your camera is your primary goal.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

Excellent bag. Perfect for my D300 Nikon and 18-200VR or 105 Micro Nikkor VR or smaller lens. Ergonomics are very good. External quick snap so you don't have to zip it if don't want to.
Quality built. I'd rather use this if I want to travel light. Still plenty of room for small accessories.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

I love this bag. easily holds my Xsi with Grip and I can attach either my 16-35mm 2.8, 24-70 2.8 or 50mm 1.4. There is no room to hold an additional lens, but that is not what the case was made for. Holds your camera with grip plus 1 lens, in the smallest & most protective case you can have. I love it for the size & portability. If you have a 40d, 50d or even 5d you will need the next size up for any zoom lens, but with a rebel is perfect even with large zooms. I have my fastpack 350 for when I need to take more equiptment, but for when I just need to go, and one lens is fine for the entire day, this is my bag. Also has a few small pockets for emmory cards, lens cloth, credit cards, cash, I even get my in glasses in there & a blower.

Comments about Lowepro Top Loader Pro 65 AW Camera Bag:

It seems like it was impossible to find a small zoom holster for a body with a battery grip, until now....

After endless searching I finally found the perfect bag for travelling light with my Rebel Xsi, BG-E5 Grip, and Canon 18-200 zoom. The combination fits like a glove with the lens hood reversed. It does however require a little manuevering with the strap to get the zipper to close. With the quick release clasp its no issue.

The bag carries well in many positions, since I do not use the optional cross body strap. It appears very well built up to the typical Lowepro standards and includes the rain cover that is found on other Lowepro models. There is also a bit of room in pockets for stuff like a filter or two, spare battery, Lenspen, even a cell phone. It looks good too, more high end, compared to some of the other basic zoom holsters on the market.

I'm very pleased with this bag and it perfectly fits my needs. I wanted something compact, looked good, and offered quick access, and I found it.