Okay I got my Rapid Strap(RS)-4 in the mail today. Shipping was pretty quick from Seattle.
What's Included:
As you can see the strap itself is nothing special. The padded shoulder makes cameras feel pretty light and I like having the strap across my body rather than down the shoulder (I know some disagree with the cross body approach at least).
On the Shoulder pad is a small zipper compartment. It's big enough for two SD/CF card cases or some business cards but not much else. I think it's water proof enough but don't let it get doused because I know this is the same material for my Jansport backpack.
Every version of the Rapidstrap comes with what Black Rapid dubs the "FastenR". The L-Plate has a 1/4" screw to use with the camera body's tripod 1/4" female. Everything is metal so the worst that can happen is scratching or the spring in the clip coming loose ::knock on wood::
Use: (test camera is a D200 w/ 18-105mm VR courtesy of my housemate)
This is what the FastenR looks like attached to the camera. It holds really well due to tightening washer. It feels very solid attached to the camera. Only downside is if you put the camera down the FastenR obviously protrudes a lot and thus the camera doesn't sit well on a tabletop.
To keep the body from sliding back and forth on the strap as you walk is a stopper latch which is adjustable along the length of the strap. It's made of plastic but I don't see myself breaking this because you just set it once at a comfortable length (recomended at lowest position camera sits when at hip).
Everything in action.
Front view of RS4 being worn by me. The D200 sits comfortably at my waste in this photo. I'm scared of it moving around a lot as I walk so I might tighten the strap and raise it a lil so it sits a lil more at my belt line.
Another photo but side view.
Conclusion:
I'm very happy with it and it seems really solid. A well made device and I kinda wished I thought of it first. haha It's simple enough to make I think (as are most things in photography).
Pros:
-For event/wedding/street/urban photographers who are always on the move
-Perfect for travel. Makes the camera feel a little lighter.
-Camera sits away and points back which lessens the possibility of lens damage which wearing a neck strap on the shoulder might do.
-Raises to eye level very fast and grip is always in reach.
Cons:
-If not set right can ride legs and start to jostle.
-Cumbersome to attach and detach FastenR if tripod plate doesn't have D-Ring
-Havne't worn for an event yet but I think you could have shoulder fatigue with with larger bodies and lens combos.
All in all I'm happy with it.
More information and purchases here:
http://www.blackrapid.com/
hahaha I swear I'm not paid for this.
Hope everyone enjoyed the read.
I'll give more impressions later once I get my event assignment.