Photographers have been known to be extremely critical and picky when it comes to bags and packs to haul their gear. It doesn’t really matter if the photographer is a working professional or an amateur, we all have wants, needs, and pet peeves when it comes to camera equipment. Most of us just want a well-made bag that allows us to carry our basic digital single-lens reflex camera, a few lenses, and small accessories with us on an airplane. Of course, the idea of baggage handlers tossing thousands of dollars worth of electronics around like a rugby ball makes us sick to our stomachs.
Enter the Mountainsmith Endeavor shoulder bag. Mountainsmith has been making serious back-country backpacks and gear since 1979. Their various lines of equipment cover everything from tents to backpacks, even down to packs that you can put around your dog to make him pull his weight on your adventures. Mountainsmith produces 17 different photography-specific cases, with the Endeavor being the largest in the line.
Mountainsmith Endeavor Specs:
Colors available: Gray only
Capacity: 1220 cubic inches / 20 liters
Exterior dimensions: 11.75″ H x 16.25″ W x 6.5″ D
Interior dimensions: 11.00″ H x 15.50″ W x 5.75″ D
Weight: 2.5 pounds / 1.05 kilograms
Materials:
- 500d S-Kodra high-tenacity nylon for enhanced puncture and abrasion resistance, plus d-210d Duramax liner for a second layer of wear and weather protection
- Patented YKK zippers used on all compartments
MSRP: $124.95
Mountainsmith Endeavor Unique features:
- FAA-approved carry-on size bag with padded shoulder strap.
- Dual front panel compartments with pouches
- Four panel compartments for maximum organization
- Removable padded camera compartments allowing customizable size and configuration of area
- Water resistant
Application: Travel photography for any level of photographer
Pros:
- Reasonable cost
- Customizable main compartment
- Lifetime warranty
- Ability to hold a full-size laptop
- Reinforced handles and seams
- FAA carry-on size
Cons: None apparent at this time. Travel and field tests forthcoming.
Mountainsmith Endeavor Bottom line:
The Mountainsmith Endeavor enters a crowded market with many competitors offering similar products. I have used competing products for the last several years and I can say that, so far, my initial impression and testing of this bag puts it ahead of the ThinkTank Retrospective 20 and Lowepro Slingshot 200 bags I have used in the past. The lightweight material will surely be a huge upgrade over other heavier materials while carrying a full complement of gear. The exterior compartments open wide, but not fully; this minimizes the risk of losing small contents. The price point also makes this bag an excellent choice, costing approximately $50 less than comparable bags. I eagerly await my summer of road trips and adventures to really see how well this bag will hold up. All indications point to the Mountainsmith Endeavor being a great bag.
You can purchase the Mountainsmith Endeavor on Amazon.com.
