domke f-5xb - i like it!

[uroman]

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I purchased the domke f-5xb as a camera bag, and I really like it!

It easily fits my M9 with 50/1.1 or 50/1.0, and my 35/2.5 and 50/2

I think it could fit much larger lenses.

I separate it into 3 compartments, with the padding between.

 

There is room for some accessories as well.

 

The bag is small, and looks nothing like even a laptop bag - it is way too small for that. If I were at a tourist trap, it would probably be known to be a camera bag, but other places it looks more like a man-purse or a lunch box. In fact, it can fit a digital m, 2 lenses, and some snacks instead of a 3rd lens.

 

The fabric is nice and seems to be thick.

 

Lenses can go in individally, or with their pouches.

 

Overall, I am sure that there are fancier bags from billingham or fogg, but this domke is nice if you want to just grab the camera and go. I also can be flattened (although bottom is stiff), and put in a backpack or laptop bag if you want to keep it as a smaller travel bag.

 

I think it is really nice, doesnt have an elitist appeal (precisely why I bought it). SOme people want the bag to be a nice fancy item. Then this isnt for you. It is nice, just not fancy - which makes it perfect for my intentions.

 

Thanks for the suggestion for getting this bag, i think anyone looking for a 2-3 lens carrier will like it, unless a more dainty or fancy bag is desired for the luxury brand buyer.

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[nelly]

I also recommend the Domke f-803 a great compact bag too.

[tim_n]

This one works best for me, too. Bags are personal, of course, but the features that make this one right for me are the following:

1. Soft Domke cotton canvas does not pill up jacket or sweater fabric like many nylon bags do as they rub against you.

2. Depth of bag is just 1 camera body. I have the F-803 also, but find it needlessly deep for an M kit.

3. Soft but sturdy---no stiffeners to make it box-like. It shapes to your body.

4. Easy to reconfigure. I've used with 2 M bodies with lenses, M plus Widelux, M plus maps-wallet-cell phone, etc., or just M with/without extra lenses.

5. Top zipper keeps things from tumbling out at airport security; normally leave zipper open and just use flap to close bag.

6. Strap has anti-slip gripper threads.

7. Olive drab color fades to an anonymous Army surplus look. I also have a sand-colored one that's faded to resemble a worker's tool bag.

 

My suggestions: (1) quiet the rattling metal zipper pulls and strap clips by weaving in nylon cord as on recreational wear, (2) only need waterproof spray on the top flap area, (3) vacuum the bag interior frequently---surprising how much dust and dirt can accumulate with heavy use. When I used my Widelux a lot, I used to line its slot in the bag with a plastic bag that I changed regularly, because the "W" is so sensitive to grit and dust in its clockworks.

[ramosa]

I have both--the F-5xb and F-803. I like both, but having downsized to one M body and three lenses, the F-803 never gets used. Love the F-5xb. It's the perfect size for a body with attached lens and a couple more lenses. Gotta love Domke. Durable, understated, relatively well priced, and functional. More advice? Cut off the Domke label on the F-5xb.

[Shac]

I picked up a used one and really like it for all the reasons above

[chounws]

Hi Tim,

While you're use the f5xB, how about the zip may scratch the camera or not?

Thanks

[smkoush]

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I used the F-5XB in the past, I really like it for all its qualities described here. However, I have a similar problem with the zipper rubbing on the camera/lens every time I take out/put back the camera.

 

Savvas