I was excited to try the new BlackRapid strap because the first few versions caught my attention and the new RS-5 has a lot of storage built in. After few photowalks, gigs and various photo-ops using the RS-5 strap I decided to go back to my regular Think Tank camera strap. This is not to say the RS-5 isn’t built well because it is. The strap is strong and very impressive. My major concern is with the FastenR-2 slowly loosening.
Pros
- Very padded for comfort
- A lot of storage
- Camera off to the side
- No neck stress or pain
- Extremely well built
Cons
- FastenR-2 slowly loosens
- The thickness of the strap causes big sweat stains when it’s hot out
- I get too nervous using the tripod mount to support all of the weight although I know it’s very strong
- With a pro lens (example: Nikon 24-70 f/2.8) the camera doesn’t hang upside down, it hangs with the lens down.
So as I stated above, the strap kicks butt, however it is not for me. I do recommend this for people who don’t mind my gripes with the strap. Give it a shot!
About Scott Wyden Kivowitz
Hi Scott,
One tip with the FastenR there is to get the rubber washer wet before screwing it in, doing this breaks the friction and allows you get get a deeper thread. Then, the water evaporates and the rubber leaves a tight seal onto the camera.
Can't say anything about the down pointing lens though. With a lens that heavy (but with no tripod collar available), its inevitable.
Thanks Taylor,
I will give it a try!
I don't have this strap but my first thought was that the fastner that attaches to the tripod socket would loosen. I can't imagine my buying this strap just to have my equipment hit the ground within time.
I don't have this strap but my first thought was that the fastner that attaches to the tripod socket would loosen. I can't imagine my buying this strap just to have my equipment hit the ground within time.
It's unfair to call this a review. You give your impressions and feelings with no real analysis. Very disappointing.
Because it's my impressions and feelings on the strap it is my review. Sorry you are disappointed.
I had to eventually get rid of the strap because I couldn't risk it. It would not stop loosening.
It's unfair to call this a review. You give your impressions and feelings with no real analysis. Very disappointing.
Because it's my impressions and feelings on the strap it is my review. Sorry you are disappointed.
I had to eventually get rid of the strap because I couldn't risk it. It would not stop loosening.
Hi Scott, I’ve worked as a tester and your review is fine. you’ve clearly use the product in the field and have identifed pro’s and con’s to the product objectives.
P.S. like your Portfolio.