TENBA GEAR [ YES ]

I have been using Tenba products for over twenty years. They have always produced excellent backpacks, shoulder bags, and storage accessories and are a company I have come to rely on for quality products and design innovation.

The Fulton v2 16L (more below) is my go-to backpack for my 4×5 landscaping kit, and for a good reason, it works about as perfectly as I could find for weight, space, and security. The Roadie II Hybrid Roller/Backpack is not my favorite because it hurts my back. But maybe that is a casualty of a rail built into the back of a backpack; I do not know. I have not used anyone elses’ roller backpack, so I have nothing to compare it to. I keep the Roadie II stashed away for airline travel which I purposely choose not to do much of anymore as I prefer campervan travel.

The P675 Pro Traveler Shoulder Bag is my longest-lasting camera bag. I acquired it for my Pentax 67II kit in 2004, and even though I let go of the Pentax 67II, the bag stayed and still provides strong and convenient protection. Instead of camera gear, it houses a small practice guitar amp and accessories. You might think the P675 bag is the oldest Tenba gear I own, but you’d be wrong. The oldest is the Car Case for Monolights which is still in great shape. I do not know its model number, but it was acquired when I had my Atlanta studio. I retired from that Georgia-based studio business and moved to Florida in 2000 to begin a new business venture. So yes, I can attest to Tenba making quality photo equipment transport gear.

The other nice accessories I own and use made by Tenba are a couple of large Messenger Wraps and Battery Cases. I will have in my possessions soon a Reload Universal Card Wallet and Tools Zipper Pulls. I love the shades of blue they choose for some of their products and hope they stay with them. Give Tenba products a try if you have not already.

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The Tenba Fulton V2 16L All Weather Backpack – Black/Black Camo was my first choice to try out when I realized it was time for a new on-the-road backpack for my Ebony RSW 4×5 kit. The pack I was looking for had to hold all my gear, be comfortable when fully loaded, and offer security because I often shoot alone out in the landscape. Thankfully, the Fulton v2 16L answered all these requirements, and here is how:

(1) the pack is surprisingly comfortable for my petite, 5’3″ body when fully loaded. The 16L fits my torso just fine and rests on my hips. The weight feels like it must be floating on air because I do not feel much weight at all. I secure the pack with the chest and hip straps for longer walks, and it stays where it needs to when I walk.

(2) I prefer how the rear camera storage area opens for security and cleanliness reasons. When I lay the bag down, the rear does not lie on the ground; it lays down on the front, which is good because I do not use the front pockets. Walking around, knowing access to the camera is between my back and the pack, gives me a sense of security.

(3) the top loading area is expandable. I currently stow the SPG lens case and nothing else, and it can hold more if needed. So overall, this bag is light, carries all my gear safely, gives me a sense of security, and is comfortable to wear when fully loaded.

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WHAT’S IN MY FULTON V2 16L

TOP COMPARTMENT

SPG Lens Case with:
Rodenstock 65/4.5 Grandagon-N + CF
Nikon 150/5.6 Nikkor-W
Linhof Reflex Viewfinder (top only) for use with focusing bellows

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REAR COMPARTMENT

Ebony RSW (in SPG case)
Nikon 90/8 Nikkor-SW (on camera)
Linhof Variable VF + 4×5 & 6×12 Masks
Focusing Bellows
Ebony Focusing Loupe
(3) Toyo Film Holders in SPG Triple Sleeve
Da Yi 6×12 Film Magazine
Pocket Spot Light Meter
Toyo Lens Wrench
Minolta Shutter Release Cable

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FRONT COMPARTMENT

Compendium Hood
LEE Filter Holder
4×4 Filters

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I can fit more in the top compartment if necessary. I currently shoot with this kit on road trips for project work. One thing I enjoy about this particular model of the Fulton is the durability of the outside material. I lay the bag down on about every shoot to work out of the rear and work quickly. While I do my best not to scuff up the bag or lay it needlessly in questionable areas, I sometimes have to lay it down on the ground covered in dampness from recent rain with wet dirt, stones, leaves, etc. The bag cleans off nicely with a baby wipe or two that I have available in my campervan. This bag works well for me and may work for you if it can carry the gear you want.

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