Guy Low Price Electronic

Tuesday, 9 December 2008

Black And Decker Charger

B&D Fast Chargers are great. But to avoid disappointment as expressed by some of the reviewers, it's important to note the following:

B&D 18v batteries come in (at least) 3 varieties: 1.2, 1.5, and 2.1 ampere/hours. The 1.2 comes with most tools and has 2 terminals. The 1.5 (comes with some kits) and 2.1 "Silver Extreme" (sold as a "high performance" accessory) have 3 terminals - the third terminal apparently detects over charging.

B&D chargers also come in (at least) 3 varieties:

1) "Dumb" chargers that supply a constant charge current/voltage, i.e., like the charger that comes with most B&D products that has the brick that plugs in the wall and a small piece that slips onto the battery; these have 2 terminals.

2) "Semi-intelligent" 2 stage chargers that supply a constant charge current/voltage for charging, but then drop to a "maintenance charge state". These also have 2 terminals.

3) "Intelligent" fast chargers that charge at a faster rate, can sense overcharging and modify charge current accordingly, and then drop to a "maintenance charge state" once the battery is charged. These chargers have 3 terminals.

The (dumb) charger that comes with most B&D products that has the brick that plugs in the wall and a small piece that slips onto the battery does charge ALL the 18v batteries in about 6 hours - BUT - the manual warns not to leave the battery on the charger or battery life will be diminished (no "maintenance charge state", just constant contiuous current).

Semi-intelligent chargers charge at twice the rate as the "dumb chargers", thereby charging ALL 18v batteries in about 3 hours. These are chargers that come with the 3 piece garden set, dual chargers that come with some combo kits, etc. You can leave the batteries on these chargers "indefinitly" according to B&D.

The "intelligent" fast chargers (single & dual) will charge the 2 terminal 1.2 A/H battery in about 3 hours (same as the semi-intelligent chargers) BUT will charge the 1.5 & 2.1 ampere/hour batteries (with 3 terminals) in about 90 minutes. And, you can also leave the batteries on the fast chargers "indefinitly" according to B&D.

Hope this helps

Rod Black & Decker FSMVC 9.6-Volt to 18-Volt Slide Style Battery Charger

I bought this charger based on the product description that says it will work with all B&D 18V slide style batteries. This is not true. It does not work with the 18V slide style batteries that come with certain B&D tool sets such as the Black & Decker #BDC318R-2 3PC 18V Drill Combo Kit. B&D customer support confirmed this false claim. I have no idea what other B&D tools have batteries that it wil not charge, however it does work with the batteries that come with Black & Decker 18-Volt Cordless Electric 12-Inch Grass Hog String Trimmer/Edger #NST2018.

I have several B&D outdoor 18-volt products and the batteries wear out pretty fast. I wanted a charger that would charge one battery as I work with the others. The charge light blinks when it is charging and is steady when the battery if fully charged. The product description states "less than 90 minutes" for a complete charge.

I have charged about a dozen 18V batteries with this charger. The average time from when the battery is first inserted until the blinking charge light goes steady indicating a full charge IS ABOUT 3 HOURS 15 MINUTES.

Since this charger is made for 9.6 volt to 18 volt, I believe the "LESS THAN 90 MINUTES" is referring to the 9.6 volt batteries. The 18 volt batteries take more than twice that long.

The stock black charger than came with the products takes about 6 hours to charge an 18 volt battery, so this charge IS faster -- about twice as fast. But the "less than 90 minutes" statement does not apply to the large 18 volt batteries -- just so you're aware.

Whether it's worth $25 to charge a battery in 3 hours instead of 6, you'll have to decide. For me, I was a little disappointed that the charging takes more than twice as long as what was advertised.

I have a set of 18-volt Black & Decker yard tools (hedge trimmer, line trimmer, and blower) that came with a regular slow charger. By the time I get about 2/3 done with any yard work, all 3 of my batteries are empty. I work through one battery at a time and drop it on the charger as I grab the next one. But the regular charger just can't do it fast enough. So I was thrilled to find the Black and Decker fast charger. It works great! Now when my battery runs out while I'm doing yard work, I stick it on the fast charger and by the time the third one is emptied, the first one is charged again. Hooray!

This 90 minute charger sometimes indicates that it is charging for 6+ hours on a brand new battery. Generally it works fine and does charge my batteries in about an hour but there are those few times that just sits there and just blinks away for hours saying that it is charging. Because of this, I never use it unattended. The batteries that it tried to charge for a long time got pretty hot but probably still well within the safe zone. It just made me nervous enough to only use it while I am home.

This charger is good to have if you need your battery charged fast. Doing a few hours of yard work using 2 batteries, you can recharge the batteries alot better than the one that comes with the product. The light on it let's you know when the charging is done. Am very pleased with this purchase

The charger is described by its manufacturer as being for all black and decker 9.6 - 18 volt batteries, when it is not. The charger does not work with certain newer batteries that have 4 prongs to them, just "older" ones with 3 or 2 prongs. A call to B&D support got me a reply that the charger doesnt work with the 4 prong batteries (which BTW have the same part number no matter how many prongs) and that I should return the item as it doesnt do what its advertised to.

So, if your tools use the 2 and 3 prong batteries, this charger is GREAT. If your tools use the 4 prong batteries, save your time and aggrivation and just charge them with the slow chargers that came with the tools. Beware buying extra battery packs as you cant tell till you get the package open if the batteries have 2, 3 or 4 prongs and the 4 prong ones dont fit into the older tools either!'

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Mini Usb To Micro Usb Adapters - retractable, mini usb to micro usb adapters

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This product is essentially a spring loaded USB cable with adapters. The key to it's usability is determining whether the adapters are appropriate for your proposed uses. I was looking for a cable end to fit an HTC Android phone. Unfortunately the end in question seems to go my names that are not entirely industry standard and did not come with this adapter kit.

The spring loaded cable itself works well and I'm using it with other adapter ends and am pleased with it's function. Philips SWR1249/17 Retractable USB 2.0 Adapter Kit

The Phillips set of USB adapters is exactly what I needed for charging items in my car. The pouch has a space for each part, and is small and sturdy. It should fit easily in my car's glove box. I haven't tried them out yet, as I just received them, and my car has been loaned-out. I can't tell you how durable they are. My only complaint so far is that the material in the kit that holds the parts in place is very smelly, so much so that I may have to throw it out. I'll let you know when I know how durable they are, and if the smell lessens over time.

Bought this for the retractable cable and some of the adapters. Adapters are OK. I thought the cable looked a little light weight, but figured it was needed to keep the retractable small and for its operation (cable is also flat). After using it a few times the retractable quit working. When you would pull out the cable it would not hold in place. Took unit apart and using the cable as is. The cable also does not have any relief going into the USB plugs. With the cable being light weight and flat, the wires will probably not last long from use.

Be warned! This kit does not contain *any* real micro-usb adapters. The box claims that there are two of them, but they are both bizarre proprietary things that will not function as standard micro-usb adapters. I bought this kit so that I could charge my micro-usb phone, but it is not useful for that purpose.

Useful set of USB connectors. I've got my doubts as to the durability of the wound up wires over the long term (this applies to this type of connector in general, not to this specific set). Philips gear, in general, is top notch (I used to work for a subsidiary, in my dim-and-distant past, and I can say from experience that this was the case back-in-the-day, and, as far as I can tell from recent purchases, mostly of electronic gear, it still applies).

The kit is housed in a drawstring bag (not IMHO adequate protection) which could certainly be improved upon (seems a shame to build a good product then house it in inadequate protection - but it does seem to be the way of the world these days; Philips is no exception, but they OUGHT to be).

While the cable and adapters are fine for data transfer on most devices I tested them on, they are wholly inadequate for power/charging. Although this product description is vague on this point, I was really expecting a higher level of product from Philips. As it is, this makes the cable and adapters sub-par as a replacement for fully functional cables and/or adapters. Unless you have very modest needs or have space in your bag for two sets of cables/adapters, I recommend to keep looking and find a more robust solution.

With all the gadgetry we have this is a great little kit. Couple this with a Cigarette Lighter USB adapter in the car and you're good to go with all your portables. I love anything with a retractable cord and that takes up almost no storage space. - Computer - Mini Usb To Micro Usb Adapters - Retractable - Micro Usb'

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Spanish Phrase Book

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As someone who studied a bit in the past, forgot some easy things, knew a few intermediate things, this great buy really gives you many fine points to help you start to actually speak the language. It's a book for someone who's already gone through a basic/elementary book. You'll get the maximum benefit if you pay attention to many parts of the conversations that aren't even emphasised: I'm referring to the tricky aspect of languages where you can't do word for word translations and the different way prepostions are used. Want to say "about" something in Spanish? Use "de"(!)--and there are many other little stumbling blocks like that, which will either frustrate you or, like me, fascinate you. Like I said, it's a great buy. Practice Makes Perfect: Spanish Conversation (Practice Makes Perfect Series)

To start off with: on the back of the book, there is an indication that this is meant for intermediate learners. There is a grammar review/reference in the appendix but I suggest that before going through this book, you know how to conjugate most verb tenses, including the subjunctive, but you don't necessarily need to know when the subjunctive modes are used (some of this is taught).

Even if you consider yourself past the ¨intermediate¨ stage, it's likely you'll still find some useful information. I was able to have conversations in Spanish fairly easily before picking up this book, but now the vocabluary I use will be more varied.

Each chapter starts off with a dialogue (I've gone through several Practice Makes Perfect books and none had dialogues, although it makes more sense in a book like this which is about conversation!). The main parts to be learned in the dialogue are bolded, and explanations of these follow the dialogue (with examples). After this, there are several exercises for practice. This format is great I think, for a book whose goal is to help you improve your conversation in a language.

The author goes over many useful little parts of conversation. Some that I'll try to include more in my conversation are:

·así que (meaning ¨so¨...I used to use ¨por eso¨ more often)

·parece mentira (it doesn't seem possible)

·ya sea (whether)

·o sea (in other words)

·a propósito (speaking of which)

·para serte sincero (to be honest)

·quisiera (used instead of ¨quiero¨ sometimes for the sake of politeness)

·por otra parte (¨in addition¨, ¨furthermore¨ or ¨plus¨-I used ¨ademas¨ most often before)

·fíjate que/imagínate que (actually/just imagine)

·no acabar de (which indicates that something ¨just seems impossible¨)

·incluso (including/even)

·en efecto/efectivamente (indeed)

·en cuanto (as soon as)

·por cierto (by the way)

·estar harto (to be fed up)

·cuanto antes (as soon as possible, right away)

·evidentemente (¨obviously¨-not ¨evidently¨)

·por lo visto (evidently)

·la persona indicada (la persona ideal)

·en el fondo (basically, deep down...)

·ya que (since)

·educado & culta (well-mannered & well-educated)

This is just a small part of what's in the book though.

If you decide to go through this book, you'll be writing your own conversations sometimes. As you go through the chapters, it's a good idea to flip back to previous ones and add as many phrases or words (that you reviewed before)as you can, also including ones from the current chapter. That way, after you finish the workbook, you'll have remembered/learned much more. Also, for things you need more practice with, it's a good idea to write your own sentences and if you have a diary or journal, write in Spanish using these words or phrases.

This book isn't just about how to use little words or phrases, but of course sentence structure is included as well. One of my favorite chapters has to do with this (Chapter 12-¨Retelling a Conversation¨) where you must change direct quotes to indirect speech and vice versa. (Example: Les dijo «No lleguen tarde.» becomes: Les dijo que no llegaran tarde.)

As usual in the Practice Makes Perfect books, there is an answer key as well as an English to Spanish glossary and a Spanish to English glossary. Included as well (which I mentioned before) is a grammar review/reference in the appendix.

To me, ¨Practice Makes Perfect: Spanish Conversation¨ stands out as a unique book in the series and I think it would be useful to any intermediate to advanced learner who wants to improve their Spanish conversation skills.'

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Protein Shake - energizing, protein

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When the container is opened, the smell is reminiscent of "Play Doh" - clay/chalk-like. The taste is very much like what it must be like if you mowed your lawn and then let it dry, and then blended that up and put it in a drink and consumed it.

I cannot stress enough the taste is terrible.

That said, the fiber, low carbs, rice protein, and ginseng in it (normal and eleuthero) actively make me feel better after drinking it. More energy with no jitters.

To mask the awful flavor, I usually use another whey protein powder that is chocolate to mask the flavor of this stuff - two or three scoops of the other one and one of this, into 14-18oz of reduced fat milk, cold, and then after stirring it up drink it as fast as possible.

If you are looking for something delicious, this is not for you. If you are looking for additional protein and fiber in your diet, with low carbs as well, this is a great product (and Amazon has it cheaper than my local stores, and it ships "free" with Prime). Rainbow Light Protein Energizer Food-Based Dietary Supplement Powder Vanilla Flavor 17-Ounce Bags (Pack of 2)

What can I say, it's not the tastiest thing out there but it is extremely low carb, no sugar, high protein, high fiber, spirulina, green food, aminos, digestive enzymes, vitamins, etc. It fills me up, and, I'm building muscle and losing fat. I can't say that for any other protein powder i've tried. It has everything i want, and reasonably priced. The taste isn't that bad, just a little flour-like. No big deal for me, for the sake of getting the nutrients i want. The taste can be masked.

If you want protein powder that tastes amazing, try Fruitien, however, with 13g net carbs per serving and low fiber, compared to the 1g net carb per serving of this, it does not compare.

The icing on the cake for me is the eco-packaging.

I couldn't tell you if it made me feel better because I couldn't finish one shake. I've never had a protein shake this disgusting. The ingredients say it's good for me so I'll give it an extra star for that. The first sip was gross. I gave it another shot. Still nasty. Third time's the charm? Nope, it's grainy like sand that won't dissolve and it went straight into the trash.

LOVE THIS STUFF. DRINK IT EVERY MORNING IN MY BLENDER

ENERGY DRINK. A LITTLE SWEET BUT NOT TOO MUCH, STILL GREAT WITH EVEN APPLE JUICE. TALKED MY "I DON'T BELIEVE IN ALL THAT VITAMIN STUFF" HUSBAND INTO DRINKING IT, A COUPLE WEEKS LATER HE SAID "WOW THAT STUFF REALLY WORKS, I CAN GET THROUGH THE DAY WITHOUT WANTING A 2 P.M. NAP" ALSO NO GLUTEN!!! I WAS BUYING IT AT THE HEALTH FOOD STORE AND PAYING FOR ONE WHAT I PAY FOR TWO THROUGH AMAZON. IF ENERGY IT WANT YOU WANT TRY THIS....GIVE IT SOME TIME.....YOU WILL BE HAPPY.

I like this protein powder so much I have it on a recurring order. It has 500 mgs of spirulena, along with other herbs & minerals. It is truly an energizer and buying it through Amazon makes it affordable for me. There's a discount for an autoship that brings the cost way down.

The taste is not great, but not as horrible as others have described. It is ideal in a blender with some light soy milk and banana or blueberries. if you don't mix it properly, it will be gloopy. but i love everything about it!! it does make you feel good and you know its good for you.

I, too, was looking for a protein supplement that was both good-tasting and was free of allergens as well as added sugar. I was thrilled to find this and my experience with it has more than matched my expectations. It is plenty sweet for me and the texture mixed with apple juice and water adds a nice creamy element. Maybe it's because I'm a long-time vegetarian who has a minimal need for sugar, and actually finds great enjoyment in foods that are good for me, but, bottom-line is that I enjoy this product and plan to keep it as a regular supplement to my diet.

This powder is definitely chalky in taste, but I add vanilla and use vanilla almond milk to make it ore appetizing. Besides the taste, some may find the green color unappealing, but it doesn't bother me. Love having a protein shake I can drink without having to worry about my allergies.

I am on a low 3 ounces protein and no sodium diet and I didn't want a lot of other ingredients that my body can't handle and it is food based. It's Organic 100% national free of gluten, yeast, milk, eggs,wheat, but best of all it has only 10mg of sodium and high in 15 mg protein this is very good for me , high in fiber no added sugar a very good Vanilla Protein Energizer drink. I have one scoop full with one cup of juice in the morning for breakfast alone with oatmeal and raisens I love it. I had been looking for the right one for me a long time I am 71 years old and Iam telling you truth about this I am very happy. - Health - Energizing - Protein - Fiber'

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Notebooks - notebooks

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I have used this product for several years for my daily written notes. I then move those notes to a computer program on my Mac called Notebook. The pages are big enough to tuck in 8.5x11 paper, or reduce it by 85% and tape it into the notebook. The pages are heavy material and the green tint makes it easy to read. There is a left margin line, and the pages are gridded on both sides. No detectable bleed-thorugh on pages when using a normal pen or pencil. Even highlighter marks are barely visible on the reverse side of the page. Looking back at one of my notebooks from 10 years ago, the writing and pages are just as crisp and new-looking as the day I write the notes. Highly recommended! TOPS Chemistry Notebook, Pressboard Cover, 9.25 x 7.5 Inches, Numbered, 120 Pages, Green Tint, (35120)

These notebooks were purchased for lab projects in which many hours would be spent trying to avoid eyestrain and keeping these bound books in one piece. They held up to both tasks wonderfully and I will definitely be buying more!

These notebooks are a great size- about 8-10". The paper is smooth, a nice pale green, and the pages are numbered- which means I can keep track of my notes, and find references more easily. I prefer ones with a spiral binding- but I have a pile of these as well. Good notebook! - Notebooks'

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Precision Screwdriver Set

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This Maxtech 30-piece set has the best bit assortment that I have seen. I had several sets before ordering and purchased another set as well at the time that I purchased the Maxtech. The set does not mention what I have found on my own but mention it here to let you know. When I first received it I was extremely impressed by the quality of the bits. They are all manufactured from a 0.155" steel hex stock. I wish I knew of a handle that would accept this size hex bit that held the bits in place magnetically rather than a clip style. I have used Brownell's Gunsmith's full size hex Magna Bits for years and have several extra Magnetic handles and truly love this style. Back to my main point. Upon receiving I assumed that the handle alone would just accept the bits. When I went to install a bit directly into the handle the bit just fell into the handle clear out of sight. I just thought that this was the way to use the bits and just tried to really clamp down on the bits to keep them from falling. Problem is, the collets in the handle are just plastic with a metal outer tightening collar. The outer collar is the only thing that is metal and I kept loosing the bits as the light force used in tightening and loosening fasteners would just keep pushing the bits back inside of the handle. This morning I was just playing around with the set. I had not tried using the extension. But I found that once the extension was inserted I found that it was really an integral part of the set and why the handle is hollow. The extension is accepted at full depth to be pushed way down into the handle. You can extend it out any length that you desire. But pushed way in, it becomes the final piece in the puzzle. With this extension inserted you have a clip tip with a firm socket into which the bits, once inserted, are firmly held into place without any chance of them loosening and falling in deeper. Once I discovered this little bit of information my opinion of this set increased dramatically. This should be pointed out more clearly in the main description. Also the bits are held in the case by three trays that are completely removable from the main case which is very handy. The bits are clipped firmly in place. I would rather see these trays held into the case being able to just tilt forward with the "option" to remove them if you desire. All in all, with this bit of information known, I would give this set a 5-Star Rating. I hope this is useful.

UPDATE 7/3/009: Shortly after writing this I found a link on Amazon to 'widgetsupply.com'. They had a set of four color-coded aluminum micro screwdrivers with hollow handles. They came with sets of Torx, Phillips, Hex and Plain bits that are stored inside the handles which can be sortd by color depending on type of bit. The most important thing to me is that this set of handles holds the bits by the use of magnetic chucks! They accept all of the 0.155" Maxtech hex bits. Maxtech 16521MX 32-Piece Precision Bit Set

I do not typically leave reviews; however, I felt the need to after seeing some of the negative ones for what I consider to be one of the best tools of its kind. I have been trying to replace the hard drive on my MacBook for nearly a month and after using different sets that did not have the appropriate screws (I needed 4 sizes, including a Phillips size 000), I'd managed to strip screws, damage parts, and ruin flimsier precision screw drivers.

But, with my replacement screws (thanks Apple Genius bar!) and this 32-piece precision bit set, I was able to get the entire job done in 10 minutes. The set is compact, clear, and sturdy.

Those who have given it poor reviews, above, likely did not use the "bit extender" piece - but, it is a key element. Simply slide the extender into the base and then load the bit into the extender. This is not an optional part of the process - it's just how the unit is designed. This design allows the screwdriver to take on many different lengths and allows a static piece (the extender) be the connector to the bits, as opposed to a clamp like other designs. This preserves the bits themselves and allows the unit to be ultra-compact.

After buying and either breaking or returning three other precision sets, I can highly recommend this set.

I disagree with some of the criticisms posted. For the price, one should not expect professional-use tools. This is for the occasional home user, and as such, the quality is good enough.

Perhaps, the absence of an instruction sheet is a flaw. Some have complained that the handle does not hold firmly enough the screw bits; in my opinion, the extension-shaft is to be used always. Which brings me to my criticism.

The screw-bit-socket has too large an external diameter for fine work. I have used this tool to tighten screws on my eyeglasses, and the collar of the socket gets in the way. For such small screwdrivers there is no need for a large torque, and the stem of the bits, and consequently the socket to receive them, could have been made much thinner. My other criticism is a minor one, this storage box could have been designed to receive the handle with the extension shaft inserted, rather than having to have to separate them store them.

Purchased a couple of these based upon the reviews here. I am surprised by the quality. The case is neat, holds the buts securely, and clearly shows the type and size. This is very helpful as some of these bit patterns are rather small. Here are a few facts that might not be clear:

1. These bits are made from 4 mm hex tool bar stock, not 1/4 inch bar stock that many are familiar with for similar tools. I thought this might be a problem, but I find the small bit sizes very appropriate for this format, and I prefer the smaller size.

2. A two-part driver handle is included in the set and fits nicely in the case. It consists of a handle and an extension. To use a tool, first insert the extension in the handle and tighten the knurled chuck. Fully extended, the handle is about 8 1/2 inches long. Fully collapsed it is just over 5 1/2 inches long.

3. The bits fit into the extension and are held there by a spring clip as a friction fit. This is very good as there is no magnetic action. One does not want to magnetize small parts. However, it does mean you have to push the bit in past its initial "stop" to get the friction to hold the bit in.

4. There are 3 bit trays in the set, and each can easily be lifted from the case and stood next to your work.

Another review talked about purchasing color-coded aluminum drivers from another source that fits the 4 mm driver format. I did this, and was most impressed with these tools also. The driver handle that comes with this set is quite adequate if you are ready to change bits as needed. The color coded handles are great if you perform frequent tasks that require say 3 or 4 torx drivers and you don't want to waste time changing bits.'

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Monday, 8 December 2008

Camera Backpack - photography, camera backpack

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After much thought, I decided to get a sling-type bag, as a backpack would be too difficult to access on the run, and in my experience a traditional (boxy) camera bag is a pain to carry around.

I have an EOS 20D with the 17-85mm zoom, and it fits beautifully in the main compartment with sufficient room for another lens and a flash or for two lenses.Then there's an upper compartment where I keep my battery charger, cables and other assorted stuff, and a filter pocket in the front.

Some nice details that really stand out to me:

- The hidden all-weather cover that stows away in a flat Velcro-ed pocket to the base of the bag is invisible until you pull it out for use: so much so that one reviewer didn't even realise it is there!

- The back is very well padded.

- The zips are very high quality, and silent when in use. When they are closed the zips themselves are not visible, instead you have a neat covered `bead' for the length of the opening.

- The main compartment flap opens fully, giving unrestricted access.

- There are two nylon webbing straps with quick-release clips to that ensure that when the bag is on your front, there is no chance that the flap will accidentally open due to the weight of the camera, even is the zips are half opened. This is hard to describe accurately, but trust me- there'll be no nasty surprises if these clips are in place.

- When in shooting position, the bag presents an excellent platform for your elbows, greatly enhancing the steadiness of your shot.

- There's a built-in microfibre cloth that protects your LCD screen whilst the camera is in the bag, and may well be used as a lenscloth.

- When you want to get moving, there's a second smaller strap that attaches easily to the main strap so that the bag really stays put on your back, even when hunched over on a bike.

This is beautifully made and intelligently designed bag that will likely last for years. I can't recommend it highly enough.

UPDATE: Have gotten the 70-300 IS (non-DO) canon zoom and the SlingShot 100 will not fit this lens whilst it's attached to the body without distortion of the closure flap - it does however fit the 20D body with a 17-85 mounted on it whilst the 70-300 is in the left compartment and the 70-300's large lens hood stored either on the lens in reverse, or in the right compartment, so I'm still happy with it.

UPDATE 2: Alexander asked me is the Slingshot would work on one shoulder: i.e. not over your head and across your chest. The answer is yes and no: you can certainly sling it over one shoulder, but due to the angle it was designed to work at the strap does not 'sit' as well on one side, so if you choose to carry it like this, you'll have to hold on to the bag a bit. Having said this, I use it on one shoulder far more than slung across my chest, so let that be your guide. Lowepro SlingShot 100 All-Weather Digital Camera Backpack (Black)

Lowe has done it again. I own 2 other Lowe bags (one being my expedition backpack for camping and a computrekker). I swear by their design innovation and attention to using professional grade materials.

I use the SlingShot 100 AW everyday. Photo ops come up at any second. You have to be ready and the SlingShot allows you to be there. It comfortably holds my DSLR Rebel XT, 430EX flash, 5 memory cards, cables, power adapter, 24mm lens, 85mm lens, 100mm macro lens and the attached 18-55mm lens.

The INGENIOUS sling design is easy to use. Simply rotate unzip the main compartment (everything stays in because the closeable buckles prohibit you from opening it up too far) and easily lift the camera out in shooting position.

While the camera is out, the bag hangs comfortable around the front and I use it to rest my elbow on while shooting (an added bonus! stability).

The stabilizing strap can be hidden away, very NICE touch. And easily pulled out when needed.

The all-weather (AW) hidden cover comes out and protects in a downpour. Another great idea.

The microfiber LCD protector, numerous pockets are added bonuses, but the TRUE BEAUTY OF THIS BAG is that it allows QUICK, EASY AND SECURE motion from storage to shoot.

I got the 100 because I'm smaller and prefer a smaller bag. If I need to absolutely carry more lenses and gear, I'll most likely be going somewhere where I'm going to be stationary so I'll use my Lowe computrekker.

But as for being in the field, and being ready at moments notice...the SlingShot is it.

UPDATE JULY 2008:

=================

I sold this bag. Not because it was bad--I got more stuff and bought the next size up! I own the Slingshot 200 now and it is just as versatile, convenient and durable. LoweProducts are the way to go.

Contrary to the previous reviewer's comments, the all-weather sleeve that did not "come with the bag" is attached to the bottom of the bag -- there's no way that it did not come with the bag as the previous author writes. It is a very well-padded compact bag, and has enough room for a dSLR with lens attached (I have an EOS Digital Rebel XT) and room for two additional lenses (one shorter-length prime lens and maybe one standard telephoto zoom). Additionally, it's easy to quickly remove the camera from the bag because the zippers are on the side of the sling, allowing you quickly swing the bag to the front of your body, open the bag, and grab your camera. Removeable padded areas attached via Velcro allow for personal customization of the bag to better fit your equipment needs. This bag gets a favorable mention in my book.

In classic western films, a lone hero pulls out a gun in a split second and then... bang bang bang! LowePro's SlingShot AW series allows you to pull out your camera ready for shooting in just few seconds. Designed for quick and easy access, it has a single diagonal strap that lets you rotate the bag from your back to the front. Two zippers open the left side revealing a well protected DSLR camera body ready for action.

Sometimes you need a bag that can hold all your gears, such as primary DSLR body, backup DSLR body, notebook computer, several lenses (walkaround, telephoto, wide angle, etc.), filters, several memory cards, iPod, chargers, extra batteries, battery grip, and so on. And there are times when you need a smaller bag like the Slingshot 100. It is just large enough to hold Canon Digital Rebel XTi with EF 17-40mm f/4L USM, EF 50mm f/1.4 USM, extra battery, battery charger (with international power adapter if traveling overseas), a couple of extra CompactFlash memory cards, and 3 lens filters. And there's enough room for either Sony DCR-HC42 MiniDV camcorder, a couple of MiniDV blanks, and camcorder charger OR iPod with camera connector and iPod charger. Missing in action is EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM telephoto lens.

It has 5 areas:

1. Primary area for the camera and lenses. It includes 3 Velcro partitions that can be rearranged to snugly hold the camera body and lenses.

2. The area where camera's LCD meets is a pouch that can hold several memory cards and is specially engineered to protect the LCD.

3. Top portion can hold items such as compact camcorder, compact point and shoot camera, or iPod, along with their charger and cables. Or perhaps some snacks.

4. Front pouch can hold additional memory cards, blank MiniDV tapes, extra batteries, and other smaller accessories.

5. Hidden inside the bottom zipper is the "all weather" cover (umbrella like fabric) that can cover the entire bag.

This bag is just large enough to carry my most frequently used gears and small enough to be taken anywhere.

Pros:

- Well made, weather resistant, stylish.

- Cleverly designed for quick access.

- Enough padding to protect your gears.

- Just large enough for my commonly used gears.

- Integrated water proof cover.

Cons:

- Will not accommodate longer telephoto lens.

- Side pouch for a water bottle would've been nice. - Lowepro - Photography - Camera Backpack - Sling'

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