the think tank retro 7!

[c.poulton]

Thanks Mike, I haven't considered the Domke F10 but seeing your review it looks like it could work for me. BTW love the double lens adaptor!

[Jamie Pillers]

Joe, I just came across this thread. I'm always looking out for The Perfect Bag and so followed your lead and looked at links describing the Think Tank 7 bag. As soon as I saw the big swaths of velcro used to hold the top flap closed, I knew it wouldn't work for me. Ripping open the velcro in situations where I don't want to call attention to myself is a big problem. I currently use a Crumpler "$5 million" bag. It has velcro closures, but also big plastic clasps. I cover the velcro to deactivate it and just use the clasps.

I'm wondering what you think of the velcro... having to make all that noise ripping it open each time you want to get inside.

[back alley]

Originally Posted by Jamie Pillers

Joe, I just came across this thread. I'm always looking out for The Perfect Bag and so followed your lead and looked at links describing the Think Tank 7 bag. As soon as I saw the big swaths of velcro used to hold the top flap closed, I knew it wouldn't work for me. Ripping open the velcro in situations where I don't want to call attention to myself is a big problem. I currently use a Crumpler "$5 million" bag. It has velcro closures, but also big plastic clasps. I cover the velcro to deactivate it and just use the clasps.

I'm wondering what you think of the velcro... having to make all that noise ripping it open each time you want to get inside.

think tank has an ingenious work around for it's velcro...silencers! they fold and stick to each other for noiseless operation. i use the velcro when travelling and when i reach my destination i then engage the silencers...perfect.

[back alley]

[back alley]

the crumpler bags drive me crazy...those clips keep swinging about making a racket when i walk.

[Teashop]

The velcro tabs on the 7 can be used 'semi-silenced' by only partially covering them. This makes them a lot more practical where security and relative silence are both required. In this way the flap remains secure without the terrible 'ripping' sound when you open the cover.I use these bags a lot and appreciate the flexibility the 7 gives in carrying extra kit that the 5 would struggle with. Highly recommended.

[anjoca76]

Nice read about the Retro 7! As I said earlier, I love my Retro 5, and while it does have its space limitations, I've come to view this as a good thing--sort of like how a goldfish will only grow to the size of its tank. The Retro 5 keeps me from lugging around more gear than I need (or buying more than I need!). I always carry 2 bodies and 3 lenses in it, albeit usually only one body can have a mounted lens.

If I ever upgrade to a larger size, it will definitely be the Retro 7. Think Tank makes terrific products.