BlackRapid RS-4 Camera Strap

  • B&H # BLRS4
  • Mfr# RS4-1RB

Product Highlights

  • Carries a Camera or Lens
  • Ripstop Nylon Rapid Strap
  • Bomb-proof Webbing
  • Sizing Adjustment
  • Zippered Pocket for 2 Memory Cards
  • Includes FastenR-3
 

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The Black Rapid RS-4 Camera Strap (Black) is a lightweight and low profile strap with a sizing adjustment located on the front for quick adjustments. The R-Strap is worn diagonally across the torso from shoulder to hip and is adjustable to fit most photographers. The locking ridges of the FastenR-3 locking ridges provide a firm connection between your camera and FastenR.  The R3 is finished in black nickel and provides a fast, easy an simple attachment system. Once connected, the camera hangs upside down, resting securely at the side or in the small of the back, with the lens pointing behind. It has a quick access, secure pocket for storing two extra memory cards in their protective cases. The strap has a pad with a mesh underside for comfort and breathability.

Material
  • Ripstop nylon
  • Bomb-proof webbing
Strap is designed to carry a camera or lens vertically
RS-4 strap is worn diagonally across the torso from shoulder to hip and is adjustable to fit most photographers
Locking FastenR connects the strap to the tripod socket located on either the camera body or the lens. Once connected, the camera hangs upside down, resting securely at the side or in the small of the back, with the lens pointing behind
Pad has a mesh underside for comfort and breathability
Zippered pocket for 2 memory cards in their cases
Material Ripstop nylon
Bomb-proof webbing
Attachment Method Attaches to tripod mount
Weight 4.5 oz (128g)

REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

by PowerReviews
Black Rapid RS-4 Camera Strap
 
4.6

(based on 212 reviews)

Ratings Distribution

  • 5 Stars

     

    (142)

  • 4 Stars

     

    (62)

  • 3 Stars

     

    (3)

  • 2 Stars

     

    (2)

  • 1 Stars

     

    (3)

97%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

Pros

  • Easy to use (100)
  • Comfortable (91)
  • Lightweight (83)
  • Durable (81)
  • Reliable (80)

Cons

  • Pricey (5)
  • Pricey / poor value (5)

Best Uses

  • Travel (87)
  • Everyday (85)
  • Comfort (61)
  • Landscape photography (47)
  • Supporting camera (47)
    • Reviewer Profile:
    • Enthusiast (65), Photo enthusiast (36), Semi-pro photographer (32), Semi-professional (22), Professional (18)
    • Was this a gift?:
    • No (88), Yes (3)

Most Liked Positive Review

 

Extreme Convenience for Large Lenses

I purchased the Black Rapid RS-4 product to see if with it I could easily manage carrying a camera with a large camera lens - specifically, a Sony 70-400G SSM - and be...Read complete review

I purchased the Black Rapid RS-4 product to see if with it I could easily manage carrying a camera with a large camera lens - specifically, a Sony 70-400G SSM - and be able to capture a decisive moment by quickly drawing the camera/lens and capturing the shot. The results have been spectacular, the convenience is excellent, the camera and lens combination swings neatly out of the way, easily held steady when climbing over rocks, and does not cause any balance problems as one might experience carrying a large lens with a neck strap and monopod, which would also stress the body's lens mount at the same time.

My setup now consists of two Connectr-2 pieces, one screwed into the tripod mount of the large (70-400G) lens, and the other into the camera body. When switching to a smaller lens, I simply switch which Connectr-2 I'm using and with the camera still hanging, I then remove the large lens and pop on the smaller lens. Only when actually switching the Connectr-2's is there any chance of dropping the camera - my children can attest I've never dropped them! ;)

There are disadvantages, however. The Fastenr-2, a small very tough carabiner of sorts, was able to reach the edge of my GGS LCD screen protector causing it to crack when traveling - ultimately something I don't regret because after removing the GGS and going back to the standard plastic protector, I've noticed color and clarity I've been missing on the LCD - a blessing in disguise - but nonetheless, be aware that the Fastenr-2 can now reach the edge of the LCD screen. That said, the GGS screen protector while neat does have its drawback, and a rather serious one at that - I'm not sure if the Schott Glass (Giotto's) version would be better - but I didn't realize until the glass came off what I'd been missing.

Another disadvantage is that the camera can no longer rest on its bottom on a table, nor can the large lens rest on its tripod mount. The Connectr-2 pieces can be easily unscrewed and replaced - they are quality pieces with a nice heft, and have a rubber washer that acts as a limiter and provides sufficient protection from the Connectr-2 from unscrewing itself.

The camera hanging at one's side is somewhat stealthy, too. Great for catching those decisive moments which a camera visible at one's front might have discouraged.

I recommend this tool. It's been very useful and oh, so much less "dorky" looking than a camera hanging from one's neck, especially when the lens is large. When going out shooting wildlife, I now leave the monopod and tripod at home - instead, I walk around and get close enough to swing up the bad-boy 70-400G and *snap!* Gotcha!

VS

Most Liked Negative Review

 

Good But, Not So Good

I had a bit of a time straightening the strap out the first time I attached it to my camera. After years of shooting with the original camera strap I had a near accident almost...Read complete review

I had a bit of a time straightening the strap out the first time I attached it to my camera. After years of shooting with the original camera strap I had a near accident almost dropping the camera because I had the strap attached to my tripod attachment of my Canon 70-200mm and I'm so use to having the strap on my camera. A recommendation from the salesmen that I should not have tried. The lock on the strap is not as secure as the Canon Strap Locking system so I'm thinking of stitching it down if I keep it. It's easy to get to and that's a plus. Overall it's a great idea and each individual should find there own comfort zone with this product.

REVIEWS

Reviewed by 212 customers

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(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

 
5.0

How's the neck?

By Sammyvee

from Sydney, Australia

About Me Photo Enthusiast

Verified Buyer

Pros

  • Adjustable
  • Comfortable
  • Strong Construction
  • Well Padded

Cons

    Best Uses

    • Comfort

    Comments about Black Rapid RS-4 Camera Strap:

    Don't know about anyone else, but carrying a 5D Mark II, with a 70-200 mm 2.8 lens around your neck for a day is very uncomfortable. The RS-4 Camera Strap by BlackRapid is perfect. Camera is by your side, ready to shoot in a instant. It's easy on the neck because you carry the camera on 1 shoulder.

    BlackRapid have the RS-5 and RS-7, but these simply have extra features I will never use. The idea is to travel light, and not to carry an iPhone in the shoulder strap. The RS-4 is more than enough and all you will need to give your neck a break. I will never use another neck strap again.

    The only thing I don't like about it is the hook / buckle where the camera attaches to tends to mark / scuff the bottom of the camera body as you walk around. So to avoid this I tend to have my hand on the camera so it doesn't sway around while I walk. But this is a minor issue, and will not stop me from buying another should the RS-4 ever break.

    • Was this a gift?:
    • No

    Comment on this review

     
    5.0

    Great way to carry your camera

    By Rick Tracy

    from Randolph, NJ

    About Me Pro Photographer

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • Adjustable
    • Comfortable
    • Does not Chafe
    • Strong Construction
    • Well Padded

    Cons

      Best Uses

      • Supporting Camera

      Comments about Black Rapid RS-4 Camera Strap:

      It is 100% better than the strap that came with your camera. If you have a heavy camera with a heavy lens and a speed light this is a must. You won't feel the weight of the camera when you are carrying it and you can whip it up a shoot in a second.

      • Was this a gift?:
      • No

      Comment on this review

       
      4.0

      So far so good

      By PhotoBear

      from Boston, MA

      About Me Photo Enthusiast

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Adjustable
      • Comfortable
      • Well Padded

      Cons

      • Setup can be tricky

      Best Uses

      • Comfort
      • Stabilizing

      Comments about Black Rapid RS-4 Camera Strap:

      I've only used this strap once so far, but it pretty much works as advertised. However, because of the way it's set up, it's possible to put it on "backwards", which kind of messes up the initial set up. I'd advise anyone who's thinking of buying this strap to check out the videos on the BlackRapid web site, which goes a long way on how to set the strap up properly and how to use it to your best advantage.

      • Was this a gift?:
      • No

      Comment on this review

       
      5.0

      Wonderful

      By lgphoto

      from Bigfork, MT

      About Me Pro Photographer

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Adjustable
      • Comfortable
      • Does not Chafe
      • Strong Construction
      • Well Padded

      Cons

        Best Uses

        • Comfort
        • Supporting Camera

        Comments about Black Rapid RS-4 Camera Strap:

        Used this hiking for 12 days in the wilderness with my backpack on. Perfect: no neck pain and camera lens hangs to be protected from the elements too.

        • Was this a gift?:
        • No

        Comment on this review

         
        5.0

        The Best Camera Strap! Period.

        By Phaseout

        from Old Bridge, NJ

        About Me Semi-pro Photographer

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

        • Adjustable
        • Comfortable
        • Strong Construction
        • Well Padded

        Cons

        • None

        Best Uses

        • Comfort
        • Stabilizing
        • Supporting Camera

        Comments about Black Rapid RS-4 Camera Strap:

        I love this strap. High quality construction and creative carrying method. IT attaches to your tripod mount, clips off easily and makes carrying and lifting your camera for a photo effortless. I am in love with this item.

        • Was this a gift?:
        • No

        Comment on this review

         
        5.0

        All they say it is, if a bit pricey

        By steve

        from Rochester, NY

        About Me Semi-pro Photographer

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

        • Comfortable
        • Does not Chafe
        • Strong Construction
        • Well Padded

        Cons

          Best Uses

          • Comfort

          Comments about Black Rapid RS-4 Camera Strap:

          I'm a speedlite guy. My pet peeve with neck straps was that the weight of a speedlite on top of my camera meant that I had to hold the camera with my hand all the time to keep it from flipping upside down. When I learned that this product attaches to the bottom of the camera, I held my breath wondering why they didn't mention speedlites anywhere in their ads. I was thrilled to find that I was right: It's the perfect strap for my purposes.

          • Was this a gift?:
          • No

          Comment on this review

           
          5.0

          Good strap, but...

          By Richard in Scottsdale

          from Scottsdale, AZ

          About Me Pro Photographer

          Verified Buyer

          Pros

          • Adjustable
          • Comfortable
          • Does not Chafe
          • Strong Construction
          • Well Padded

          Cons

            Best Uses

              Comments about Black Rapid RS-4 Camera Strap:

              Excellent for what it is. However, I should have paid a few more bucks and bought the one with a curved shoulder strap as this one slides around a lot. But BlackRapid makes an excellent product! I previously bought a cheapie knockoff online that came from china, and I really got what I paid for. I am easy on my stuff and this cheapie broke during the first hour of use. Do as I say, buy the best quality of EVERYTHING that you can afford!

              • Was this a gift?:
              • No

              Comment on this review

               
              5.0

              Truth in advertising

              By Gale the storm

              from Crowsnest Pass, Alberta, Canada

              About Me Photo Enthusiast

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

              • Adjustable
              • Comfortable
              • Strong Construction

              Cons

                Best Uses

                • Comfort

                Comments about Black Rapid RS-4 Camera Strap:

                This is a great strap and it does exactly what was promised...makes your camera and long lens easier and more comfortable to carry. Any body who walks and takes pictures while doing so, should get themselves one. You and your neck will be glad you did.

                • Was this a gift?:
                • No

                Comment on this review

                 
                5.0

                2nd purchase

                By PA Photog

                from Montrose PA

                About Me Pro Photographer

                Verified Buyer

                Pros

                • Adjustable
                • Comfortable
                • Strong Construction
                • Well Padded

                Cons

                  Best Uses

                  • Supporting Camera

                  Comments about Black Rapid RS-4 Camera Strap:

                  Works great...2nd RS-4 for me so I can carry 2 cameras

                  • Was this a gift?:
                  • No

                  Comment on this review

                   
                  4.0

                  Good thing!

                  By redclayroof

                  from Austria, Europe

                  About Me Pro Photographer

                  Verified Buyer

                  Pros

                  • Adjustable
                  • Comfortable

                  Cons

                    Best Uses

                    • Comfort
                    • Supporting Camera

                    Comments about Black Rapid RS-4 Camera Strap:

                    grabbed the "Strap"! It's a usefull tool, it makes me more mobile during work...should have taken one with more pockets!

                    • Was this a gift?:
                    • No

                    Comment on this review

                     
                    4.0

                    I would recommend

                    By stomper41

                    from Ontario, Canada

                    About Me Photo Enthusiast

                    Verified Buyer

                    Pros

                    • Comfortable
                    • Strong Construction

                    Cons

                      Best Uses

                      • Travel and hiking

                      Comments about Black Rapid RS-4 Camera Strap:

                      Very easy to use and comfortable but would be nice if it had a way to mount on a tripod.

                      • Was this a gift?:
                      • No

                      Comment on this review

                       
                      5.0

                      Great strap!

                      By Michael M.

                      from New York, NY

                      About Me Photo Enthusiast

                      Verified Buyer

                      Pros

                      • Adjustable
                      • Comfortable
                      • Does not Chafe
                      • Strong Construction
                      • Well Padded

                      Cons

                        Best Uses

                        • Comfort
                        • Shooting Portrait
                        • Supporting Camera

                        Comments about Black Rapid RS-4 Camera Strap:

                        First I most confess that I did believe in the Black Rapid straps, I thought they were uncountable and unnecessary but I was wrong these strap great! I went with the RS-4 because of the size of the pad it one zipper which is enough for me. when walking the bump in minimum. I most say that this is the best accessory I have when shooting models on location, it frees my hand to give direction to the model.

                        • Was this a gift?:
                        • No

                        Comment on this review

                         
                        4.0

                        good, but could be better

                        By j. bernard

                        from NY

                        About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                        Verified Buyer

                        Pros

                          Cons

                            Best Uses

                              Comments about Black Rapid RS-4 Camera Strap:

                              this strap is good, and the design is smart. I only wish they would have made the shoulder padding out of softer materiel and with a non skid surface...when i wear it with a collard shirt it's fine, but with a t-shirt the side of the padding can scratch your neck and it can be uncomfortable. still a pretty good product.

                              • Was this a gift?:
                              • No

                              Comment on this review

                               
                              5.0

                              Better than the original strap.

                              By Mr Truong

                              from Portland, OR

                              About Me Photo Enthusiast

                              Verified Buyer

                              Pros

                              • Adjustable
                              • Comfortable
                              • Does not Chafe
                              • Strong Construction
                              • Well Padded

                              Cons

                                Best Uses

                                • Comfort
                                • Supporting Camera

                                Comments about Black Rapid RS-4 Camera Strap:

                                This Black Rapid strap is perfect for those looking to put all of the camera weight on the shoulder as a sling. When needing to take a shot, the camera will pull up quickly due to the innovative design. Great product!

                                • Was this a gift?:
                                • No

                                Comment on this review

                                 
                                5.0

                                My neck LOVES this strap!

                                By DX newbie

                                from Santa Cruz, CA

                                About Me Photo Enthusiast

                                Verified Buyer

                                Pros

                                • Adjustable
                                • Comfortable
                                • Does not Chafe
                                • Easy to use
                                • Strong Construction
                                • Well Padded

                                Cons

                                  Best Uses

                                  • Comfort

                                  Comments about Black Rapid RS-4 Camera Strap:

                                  My friend raved about this strap, and I now agree. I find it very comfortable to wear while walking around for hours. I was a little worried about the security of the one bottom screw-in connection, having read some negative reviews about that, but, the majority were positive and I'm with them. I find the camera hangs securely and worry free, although, I'm still getting used to it hanging low at my side, rather than high in front, and keeping track of it in tight quarters, but my neck LOVES this strap. There's not much to it, but it's a brilliant design, and a good value. Taking it off the strap when done is a little bit of a hassle that's outweighed by the positives.

                                  • Was this a gift?:
                                  • No

                                  Comment on this review

                                   
                                  5.0

                                  Great Design

                                  By jpsf

                                  from San Francisco, CA

                                  About Me Photo Enthusiast

                                  Verified Buyer

                                  Pros

                                  • Adjustable
                                  • Comfortable
                                  • Strong Construction

                                  Cons

                                    Best Uses

                                    • Comfort

                                    Comments about Black Rapid RS-4 Camera Strap:

                                    Feels comfortable and secure with fast access to the camera. I never liked wearing a neck strap and previously wore my Nikon neck strap across my torso or just carried it in my hand. This works much better.

                                    • Was this a gift?:
                                    • No

                                    Comment on this review

                                    (0 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                                     
                                    5.0

                                    best strap ever

                                    By Mik

                                    from North Carolina

                                    About Me Photo Enthusiast

                                    Verified Buyer

                                    Pros

                                    • Adjustable
                                    • Comfortable
                                    • Strong Construction
                                    • Well Padded

                                    Cons

                                      Best Uses

                                      • Comfort
                                      • Stabilizing

                                      Comments about Black Rapid RS-4 Camera Strap:

                                      great strap made well and it just WORKS !!!!!!!!!

                                      • Was this a gift?:
                                      • No

                                      Comment on this review

                                      (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                                       
                                      5.0

                                      RS-4 strap

                                      By Mizzbonni

                                      from Melbourne, Australia

                                      About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                                      Verified Buyer

                                      Pros

                                      • Adjustable
                                      • Comfortable
                                      • Does not Chafe
                                      • Strong Construction
                                      • Well Padded

                                      Cons

                                        Best Uses

                                        • Comfort
                                        • Stabilizing
                                        • Supporting Camera

                                        Comments about Black Rapid RS-4 Camera Strap:

                                        I used the rs4 strap together with a rs7 strap to carry two cameras and used two couplers to hold them together from the back. It fitted like a back pack. I had to shoot an event so I carried these two cameras for about 5-6 hours and it was amazing no back pain no sore neck. It just balanced the weight. I used the rs7 to carry extra battery, cards, my money etc. Rs4 is just as good as the rs7 just less pockets to carry stuff.

                                        • Was this a gift?:
                                        • No

                                        Comment on this review

                                        (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                                         
                                        4.0

                                        delivers as advertised

                                        By Allsportphoto

                                        from Seymour, CT

                                        About Me Photo Enthusiast

                                        Verified Buyer

                                        Pros

                                        • Adjustable
                                        • Cheaper than other rigs
                                        • Comfortable
                                        • Does not Chafe
                                        • Light weight
                                        • Strong Construction
                                        • Well Padded

                                        Cons

                                        • Camera moves on your hip
                                        • Some overpirced

                                        Best Uses

                                        • Quick camera access
                                        • Simple attachment

                                        Comments about Black Rapid RS-4 Camera Strap:

                                        I use the Black Rapid RS-4 while moving about a gym taking sports photos. It delivers as billed. SImple to use. I have looked at chest mounted rigs, dual camera rigs, etc...but this is cheaper and effective for my use. I would NOT say get it for hiking, etc... camera DOES move around on your hip. I do feel it some overpriced for its simple construction features. Switching to a tripod/mono pod will force you to unscrew the securing mechanism connecting the camera to the strap first.

                                        • Was this a gift?:
                                        • Yes

                                        Comment on this review

                                         
                                        4.0

                                        Black Rapid Lens Strap

                                        By Jlowe Mayhem Shooter

                                        from Cresskill, NJ

                                        About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                                        Verified Buyer

                                        Pros

                                        • Adjustable
                                        • Comfortable
                                        • Does not Chafe
                                        • Strong Construction
                                        • Well Padded

                                        Cons

                                        • Swings around easily

                                        Best Uses

                                        • Comfort
                                        • Supporting Camera

                                        Comments about Black Rapid RS-4 Camera Strap:

                                        i use this product to prevent my nikon 70-200 mm f/2.8 lens from falling. i had an incident once where the lens actually fell and broke...and $600 in repairs later, i needed to find a way to make sure that i never have to go threw that horrible experience ever again and B&H always has anything [...] reasonably priced so i not only am satisfied with the price i payed for the black rapid strap but it works like a lucky charm.

                                        • Was this a gift?:
                                        • No

                                        Comment on this review

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                                        What's in the Box

                                        BlackRapid RS-4 Camera Strap
                                         
                                         
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