Lowepro 35091 Primus AW Premium Backpack (Black)

Positive: Functional - (You can carry all the essentials with you in one protected bag: laptop, DSLR+lenses, tripod, some clothes, water bottle) Comfortable - (Its well adjustable and its got nice soft waist straps) Secure - (Its got well upholstered camera compartment. You can unzip and accsess the bag only when its not on your back). Good looking - (When fully packed, you don't look like an idiot. It's got quite nice and smart design :)) Built in rain cover - (When traveling in rainy places, it is a life:camera/laptot saver :)) Negative: Its own weight - (There is nothing to do about it, if you need all the upholstery for your camera) No upholstered laptop compartment - (Regardless to that, you can carry a 13' laptop in a protective sleeve in the outer pocket, which isn't the safest place for it). All in all a very good bag for a backpacker who needs only 1 airplane hand luggage size backpack. Which has to accomodate your laptop, DSLR + 2-3lenses, 1.5L water bottle, some clothes and personal things. I have traveled with it around Australia and Asia and it has served my well!

I debated a long time before settling on the Lowepro Primus pack. There are a lot of other great packs out there, but this is the one I chose. In hind sight, I may have elected to go with the Lowepro Compu-Treker, but I'm still not sure about that. Here goes: PROS: 1. Very very comfortable to wear around. 2. Made from recycled water bottles 3. Has a tripod holder 4. All-Weather (AW) 5. Nice large upper storage compartment for water, snacks, jacket, etc. 6. High quality zippers and fabric CONS: 1. Camera compartment is pretty small. (I can fit my D300 w/ battery grip and the 17-55mm f/2.8 lens mounted on it, plus two additional smaller lenses (i.e. 10-20mm Sigma, Nikon 50mm/1.8, extension tubes, or tele-extender) 2. The easy access side door is very small. No way to get D300 w/ batter grip out the side door. It comes out ok without the battery grip, but it's still pretty tight. 3. The top compartment is a challenge to get into without unclicking the load lifter straps. It's easy to do, but it's just another step in the process. 4. There are a lot of straps on the backpack (this is both good and bad) and it makes it a challenge to open and close zippers with all of the straps in the way. In summary, it is a very good/well built backpack, but it won't carry a ton of camera gear unless you put more gear in the upper compartment. It's very comfortable to wear, but is a little bit of a pain to get into. I'm not sure if it's worth $200, but you're paying a little bit of a premium because it's made of recycled water bottles. For someone who just carries a camera and a lens or two and does a lot of hiking, this is an excellent backpack. If you're looking for something to lug all your camera gear around on the subway or in the car, I would get something different.

WHY YOU SHOULD NOT BUY THIS. Why you should buy this is below. Let me start with why you should not. I own a D3, D700 with grip and a D2x. It hardly fits well with a standard 17-35mm much more a 70-200mm lense as advertised. When pulling it out, it seems to drag and pull the velcro and other things.. The inside comes with extra removable padding that goes all around the interior of the bag.. This gives it even less space to store items.. This certainly will not fit a full size pro SLR with the 70-200 attached to it unless you remove everything else in the compartment and keep the padding.. I don't feel that paying 200 bucks for this is worth it at all.. Not to mention, my unit came with what looks to be an item returned by someone else (smart choice that bugger made) and it is lacking the laptop cover with the hood, missing one of the cardboard/sponge compartment separator, and the small attachment pouch to the front.. Also, the tripod hold on the front, is adjustable and held in place by some dodgy velcro.. And if you feel like pulling out the bottom to further secure the harness, beware if you have large fingers because it is very difficult to pull out in the first place much less to push it back in.. The video attached to this web page advertise that you can lay the backpack down and it will be off the ground.. It is ONLY true if the bag is filled to the brim and hence giving it its semi oval shape that will keep it off the ground.. Mind you, it is still subject to being rocked.. Also, if you were to attach the tripod to the front, the whole concept goes out of the window. The "rain coat" that is provided and attached at the bottom of the unit is equally difficult to take out and to put back in.. Furthermore, the elastic is extremely difficult to stretch and to secure onto the bag if the bag doesn't weigh a brick.. My opinion is that if you find yourself in a sudden downpour, you can rest assure that by the time you have it one, the unit will be wet and you're just securing the water into the unit itself.. Of all the bags I've owned, even with those raincoat concepts, it's really redundant.. If your bag is going to get wet, so will you and most would try to avoid getting wet all together. In between the 2 compartments, top and bottom, there is a cardboard/sponge separator as well.. The top compartment has enough space to keep lunch and a water bottle enough for one.. Though you can use the other side pocket but it is EXTREMELY tight and would anyone want to wrestle the bottle into it while having it pop out without you knowing?? Here's the thing.. If you fill the bag with equipment, there isn't enough space to slip your hand into the side...what more a tiny water bottle? ALL of the organising compartments within the bag are really TOO tight.. There is absolutely no point in trying to make use of them unless you really force them open.. I understand that new bags tend to be a bit more rigid, but through my experience plowing through bags of all kinds especially for travel and leisure, this rigidity isn't going to let out.. The number one seller for this product is for it to be "EASY" and "FAST" to take out your gun and go blazing with shots.. The strap is attached to a zip and it is very hard and rigid and it can be secured (albeit most non eloquently) in a small makeshift compartment.. Once you slip this rigid handle that is attached to the zip into that compartment, it'll take you about 3-5 seconds to wrestle it free.. 3-5 seconds is enough for your subject to run away and hide from your perspective.. Lastly, to access this bag, you will have to remove it from your shoulders mostly because the EIGHT POINT EASY ON THE SHOULDERS SYSTEM is basically a bunch of annoying straps.. that are all over the place for such a small bag.. Even then, those straps can be a huge annoyance to actually open and access the bag. Not to mention, all 4 of the zips for the lower and upper compartments are really well hidden as everything is black and the zip handles are just some cloth like material. NOW... WHY YOU SHOULD BUY THIS BAG. First off, now that I've received this bag I intended to use this as a light Sunday afternoon bag.. Storage space for lunch for 2 and 2 bottles of water on top of at least 1 pro SLR body attached with a mid size lense (17-35mm 2.8) and storage of another mid sized lense (85mm 1.4). You know, an afternoon in the park with the girlfriend shooting random and fun stuff.. Well, maybe there isn't enough space for food for 2 so.... If you're really weak and would get tired easily, this is the bag for you.. The bag alone is heavy enough, which is weird for such a small bag, and that there isn't enough room to fit a lot of stuff so max weight of camera equipment able to fit inside is capped.. It fits really snugly on anyone, small sized women included, and the distribution of weight is something to fancy.. It is secure and doesn't swing about like a school bag.. Here is the number one reason WHY I even consider to buying this.. To access the bag, you'll have to take it off because you can only access it from the inside, as opposed to outside with every other bag, EXCEPT for the side of the bag, which surprisingly, if you manage to wrestle the zip handle free, it unzips pretty smoothly.. A little too smooth for my comfort.. Why? Because of security.. There will be no way any pick pockets could access your equipment, even if they were to slice open from the back, because of the padding inside (This is removable for more space) as well as the outer cover where you should supposedly shove your laptop or hydration system.. On the other hand, if they're familiar with the bag, they could always just smoothly unzip the side compartment and pull out your SLR.. Ok, I lied.. I'm not going to use it.. I'm definitely going to return it and buy a proper lowepro bag that can actually store a decent amount of photography equipment and lunch for 2 at least.. My Burlingtons are a little too metrosexual for my taste.. Goodluck.. PS, no one really cares about saving plastic bottles.

The Lowepro Primus AW Premium Backpack is in a league of its own. I did a lot of research trying to find a bag that would have a low profile, able to carry my camera (Canon 5d), and have room for other essential items while I was traveling and/or hiking. I found that this bag was the ONLY bag that fit my criteria and when I received it, it did not dissappoint. The bag sports a lower compartment for my camera and a couple of lenses, which is also accessible by a side pocket. The upper compartment is for other essential items such as flashes, lenses, water bags, books, etc. Both of these compartments can be accessed from the back of the bag and not the front, which makes it more secure when traveling abroad. The only critiqe I have of this bag is that the upper compartment is a tad bit small. I've tried to put in a normal sized binder or notebook in there and it is very difficult and only possible if the binder/notebook is flexible. Other criticisms such as the side pocket being too small doesn't apply to me as my camera doesn't have the additional grip on it (but still it has plenty of pockets for extra batteries and CF/SD cards). I also have a 14 inch laptop, which I was able to carry inside the backpack by opening up the compartments a little bit (this is not the backpacks original intended use) so that I can carry all of my expensive items with me when I travel. All-in-all it's the best I could ask for in a bag that cost me less than $100. Did I mention that there's a place for a water bottle and a tripod holder? Solid, solid bag!

i was after a back pack to carry Nikon D90 with one additional lens (70-200 f2.8) a separate compartment for other stuff and water proof or at least water resistant. i picked this from the myriad of packs available. it does everything i asked (althought not fully waterproof) except the side access is not very functional. i find my self taking the pack off and accessing through the back. doesn't matter if i am using my long lens or not, it is just not that user friendly.

Cool concept, mediocre execution. The side-access panel, which is a great idea, is simply too small. No way a pro-DSLR or smaller SLR w/vertical grip will fit. Even a larger non-pro body like the Nikon D300/D700/5D/40D doesn't really fit. As a backpack, it doesn't even come close to being a real, outdoor quality pack. One size, few adjustments = difficult to put the load on the hips for someone taller. If you want fast access, consider a Slingshot or Fastpack. If you want a quality hiking pack, consider a non-camera hiking pack w/lower access panel - then insert a padded camera pouch of appropriate size. That basically simulates the Primus. You give up the fast access side panel but get a quality suspension and ability to a pack that fits your build.

The Primus AW is supremely well made, and easily meets the expectations I have come to associate with Lowepro quality of construction and thoughtfulness of function. (I have owned for many years and still use a Photo Trekker as my primary bag.) I can't think of a better bag for day long hikes over rough terrain with a moderate amount of gear. Thinking my needs are usually much less rigorous, amounting to a few hours' leisurely stroll from the cruise ship or resort, I had tried several other mid-sized packs and bags for this role, and ended up keeping the Primus AW. The robust shoulder and waist harness is the key feature missing in the other bags considered. The lower compartment holds a Canon 7D with 70-200/2.8 mounted, although I've stopped trying to use the side pocket for the camera. I mostly sling the camera uncased on a Sun-Sniper shoulder strap. The lens barrel rides surprisingly securely nestled on the hip, between the pack in back and a small lens case strapped to the waist belt. The lower compartment then holds a long telephoto, up to 3 mid-size zooms, plus a flash. I normally load the 70-200/2.8, 100/2.8 macro, 24-105L/4, 24/3.5 TS, and the 430EXii. The rest of the gear goes in the top compartment, which is also quite well padded. In short, the Lowepro Primus AW is a well made pack, very well thought out, and very ergonomic in its intended use. It is padded in the right places to protect both the user and the gear, and the construction is worthy of its intended pricey contents. Its capacity, size, and function are just right for tackling the more rugged back trails. For more urban or park like settings and short hikes with less gear, I use a small Domke shoulder bag.

The Primus AW is a great pack for what it is designed for. I went through just about every photo backpack out there and could not find one that met my every need. This one does not either. I was looking for something I could put two changes of clothes, my camera, two lenses, a portable hard drive, chargers, and be carry on compatible. It does not exist. Many reviews complained about the number of straps, and no directions on customising the interior for different needs. I say watch the video. If you can't figure it out from that, crawl back into you hole. It is a larger pack, again look at the video, and good for the outdoor photographer. No you will not be going for three days in the backwoods with it. It is great for the day hike, maybe more IF you are sturdy. I took mine to China and found it too large for the urban Chinese environment, but VERY secure for the photo equipment, as it opens from the inside, against your back. Mine worked wonderfully throughout the trip and you can barely tell it spent two weeks in four cities and towns in China. A great buy

I've been looking for a good photo backpack for ages. The problem has been that the ones which are designed to hold lots of camera gear aren't ideal for travelling/bad weather trekking. Conventional backpacks are great for trekking, but poor for carrying, protecting and accessing camera gear. I looked at the LowePro Vertex range (too heavy - many internal airlines have a 5kg total weight limit for hand baggage) and the Kata range (not comfortable enough) before coming across the Primus. It looked like what I needed. and as many shops sell this at £160+, the Amazon price of £58 seemed a bargain. But how did it meet my needs? Well, I've just got back from three weeks trekking in Southern Patagonia, and it was brilliant. The Primus doesn't hold a lot of photo gear in the main camera compartment, but can easily accomodate a large digital SLR and at least three lenses. I took a Nikon D200 + 18-70 and 12-24 lenses. Decided to leave the telephoto to cut down on weight (no regrets - wide angle more useful). I was carrying the above, plus two spare batteries, two lens hoods, three CF cards, blower brush and filters. In addition I carried a largish MP3 player, headphones, PDA/phone, sunglasses, toiletries, medical kit and lunch in the upper compartment. I stowed a waterproof shell jacket, waterproof over trousers, gaiters, Goretex socks and gloves and a hat in the outer pocket. One litre Sigg water bottle easily fitted in the side bottle carrier. On some days we were wild camping, so in addition to the above, I had a change of clothing, wash kit, and thermal base layer in the upper compartment, with a Thermarest mattress strapped to the top of the pack. The Primus has a brilliant adjustable strap system and a really comfortable waistbelt, so even when climbing 800m during an 11-hour trekking day, it all felt fine. With the amount of gear listed above, access to the photo gear would be difficult using a normal pack. The side entry access of the Primus made life much easier (but not perfect). I could just reach round, open the side zip and pull out the camera, without taking off the pack. The AW cover proved invaluable in the Patagonian rain and wind, and I could still access the camera with the cover on. Also, having an external expandable storage pocket for wet gear is brilliant - no chance of leakage onto your photo stuff. So is it perfect? Not quite. I wish that LowePro had made the side access flap just a little larger - I doubt it would take a D200 or 300 with motor drive. Also, the internal dividers are a strange shape - I replaced them with some old dividers from another bag. However, I wouldn't hesitate to buy it again. None of the straps or zips failed despite being sorely mistreated. Final comment: a thief tried to get into the pack while I was walking through Buenos Aires. Even though they managed get the side access zip open, they quickly realised that they couldn't get the camera out without seriously alerting me. Good anti-theft design or serendipity: you can decide.

Der Rucksack hat meine Erwartungen erfüllt. Ich suchte mehr einem Rucksack (mit Platz für Essen Trinken, Jacke ect. wie halt jeder andere normale Rucksack) in dem ich zusätzlich eine DSLR unterbringen konnte, als einen Fotorucksuck mit evt. ein bißchen Stauraum. + Platz genug für allerlei Sachen im Haupfach + Jacke ect. kann man gut unter das Flexteil stopfen + hochwertige Verarbeitung + gute Trageeigenschaften + ist nicht zu wuchtig und auch leer nicht schlaberig + Fototeil: eine D90 paßt gut hinein, bzw. durch die Schnellentnahmeöffnung(ich denke eine Vollformat mit Batteriegriff dürfte zu groß sein)Das Objektiv an der Kamera darf dabei sehr lang sein z.B. 70-200 2,8. Es passen über das Rückfach dann noch ein großes oder 2 kleinere Objektive hinein + Die Schnellentnahme ohne vollständiges Ablegen des Rucksacks, funktioniert nach einiger Übung gut

Ich verwende diesen Rucksack auf Reisen, da ich da folgende Anforderungen habe: - Nicht die ganze Foto-Ausrüstung kommt mit sondern nur die Kamera, 1-2 Wechselobjektive und etwas Kleinkram. - Dafür brauche ich Platz für Alltägliches und Proviant und möglichst eine Flaschenhalterung außen. - Ich bin den ganzen Tag unterwegs und wechsle öfter meine Kleidung (Hemd, Pulli für Abends, Regenjacke, o.ä.) und muss diese Kleidungsstücke flexibel unterbringen können, wenn ich sie gerade nicht an habe. - Wenn ich ein Motiv sehe, will ich fix an die Kamera kommen. - Der Rucksack muss wasserdicht sein oder zumindest eine Regenhülle aufweisen, falls ich von einem Unwetter überrascht werde. - Langfinger sollen nicht so einfach an den Inhalt kommen. - Ich brauche gute breite Schulterriemen mit Brustgurt und einen ordentlichen Beckengurt, um das Gewicht gut verteilen zu können, da ich ihn sehr lange trage. Das erfüllt der Primus alles! Meine Nikon D300, welche ja schon recht groß ist, allerdings OHNE Batteriegriff, geht auch mit etwas Übung problemlos durch die Seitenöffnung. Kameras mit Griff passen aber sicher nicht, wie auch die anderen Rezensenten schon schrieben. Dafür fällt meine Kamera auch nicht gleich raus, wenn ich das Fach aufmache und Diebe kommen auch nicht so schnell dran. Die Stativhalterung ist stabil aber ich finde sie etwas zu wackelig, jedoch hat mich das noch bei keinem Rucksack überzeugt und ist für mich nicht so wichtig. Wenn das Anforderungsprofil dazu passt, kann ich den Rucksack sehr empfehlen und ich würde ihn für mich auch wieder kaufen. Vielleicht sollte LowePro aber mal über eine Version für Kameras mit Hochformatgriff mit größerer Seitenöffnung nachdenken.

Also ich habe den Rucksack jetzt im Praxiseinsatz testen können und er gefällt auf jeden Fall. Das Problem dass der Reißverschluss über die Kamera kratzt kann ich leider bestätigen.. aber man muss eben ein bissel aufpassen. Raus bekommt man die Cam - aber allein nicht wieder rein. Taschen und Griffe und so sind super.. passt ne Menge dran.. manchmal schon wieder zu viel :) - weil mit 10kg möchte man ja keinen Trip machen. Ich möchte aber 2 Punkte gern raus greifen die mir persönlich nicht gefallen 1. wenn sich ein Stativ am Rucksack befindet ist der AW witzlos. Denn mit Stativ geht der AW nicht drüber.. da hätte man vielleicht sich was einfallen lassen müssen !? 2. Der Innenaufbau ist zwar Flexibel aber besteht im Grunde nur daran die 2 Seitenwände (oben und unten) zu entfernen. So kann man z.b. aus den 2 kleinen unten 1 großes machen (z.B. für den Blitz) und das obere muss man schon fast entfernen wenn man ein Tele am Body hat. Achso: meine Canon 450D / 50D mit Batteriegriff passt NICHT durch die Öffnung - ich hatte dann für die Zeit den BG abgebaut gehabt.. - schade Deswegen nur 4 Sterne.

Leider gibt es diesen so nicht mehr, ich konnte einen fast Neu hier ergattern. Danke! Es passt viel rein, man kann ihn auch zu einem reinen Wanderrucksack umbauen. Genial! Regenschutz, Diebstahlschutz, Stativalterung, was will man mehr!