Testing
Testing the LowePro SlingShot 302 was a bit of a challenge. We want to show you the limits of the AW protection, as well as the protection that the padded walls offer your camera. The bad part is that we cant afford to drop a bag with $3,000+ worth of camera equipment onto the ground, and risk it all breaking. We cant dunk the bag into a pool or river and see how well the bag repels the water. What we can do is assure you that LowePro has some of the best padding for their bags in the business. Once you feel how stiff the sidewalls are, and how much padding holds your camera in place, you will rest assured that the bag will withstand minor drops on the ground, or daily tossing about, without worry of any damage to your camera or other electronics.
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As for the All Weather (AW) aspect of this bag, don’t go thinking that you will be able to use your camera bag as a flotation device. The canvas wrap around bag is made of a water resistant material that repels water, but even when sealed is not air or water tight. What does this mean? Well, basically, you will be able to carry your camera bag through a rain storm and not worry about your electronics too much. We would recommend you NEVER take your camera to such environments, as high humidity can be just as bad for your electronics as direct rain.
The SlingShot 302 AW did make a good storage bag for all of my camera components. Wrapped up in a neat little case, all my lenses were organized, and kept away from dust. One thing that truly amazed me was the fact that this bag was comfortable to wear for more than fifteen minutes. Usually, single strap bags can become annoying when they are loaded down with 10+ lbs of equipment, but the strap system of this bag was actually usable.
Conclusion
In a quick and to the point answer: Yes, we loved the LowePro Sling Shot 302 AW. Easy access to your equipment while on a hike through the woods, or rushing to get that perfect shot of your kids playing in the sand box, timing is everything. LowePro’s bags are designed with a purpose in mind. Protection and easy access that are second to none were obviously what they were thinking when they designed this bag. With a price tag of $129.99 (at time of publication), this bag slightly more expensive than some of the lower end bags out there, but in my opinion, its worth every penny. From the amateur photographer to the professional with several thousand dollars worth of lenses and equipment everyone can rest assure that their camera and gear is safe inside the LowePro Sling Shot 302 AW. The 302 AW enables you to carry all that gear in a quick and safe way while still allowing you easy access when needed.
This is an excellent and accurate review.This bag is great! I chose the 200 AW because is was just a bit slimmer and forces me to pack light. The top compartment is suitable for my T2i & an 80mm lens, which leaves the rest of the bag for telephoto & other lenses, cleaners, filters, matte box, white balance cards, audio gear (I use it mostly for HD video), battery grip. The outer pouch on the pack is great for extra batteries while top outer zip pocket is perfect for memory cards.
The strap webbing on the side is fine for a mono-pod or lighter HDSLR support (I use and recommend the Zacuto ) , but not for a long or heavy tripod. The built-in waterproof shell is perfect for an escape to a dry area, not for trudging around in driving rain all day long. I seal the bag in an old gore-tex anorak for if I’m going to be in the field all day long.