which messenger bag?

[alexkidd]

Hi, i'm after a messenger bag but specifically one with an open top zip on the flap.

i've looked at the redsnapper and admittedly i'm a fan of tamrac and don't really like the build quality of lowepros but i'm open to suggestions :)

preferably smaller rather than huge as it's going to be a usable bag rather than carry all my stuff in it bag.

however a d300, 17-55, flash, and maybe room for 80-200 or perhaps a smaller lens like the 10-20 or something at a minimum

reccomendations anyone? :)

[chris321]

What do you mean by 'an open top zip on the flap'? I'm trying to picture this but I can't quite get my head around it!

[alexkidd]

http://www.aldine.co.uk/redsnapper/images/bags/enlargeShoulder.jpg

bottom right image in that selection shows what i mean, basically you can put your hands through the top of the bag for quicker access to your kit and open the flap for when packing it :)

[chris321]

Ahhh gotcha! Does it absolutely have to have that? I've never actually seen that before on a bag, wouldn't things get caught on the flaps if you try and take out your camera quickly?

[alexkidd]

Yeah, it's essential for me :)

[Claire]

All I can think of with the top zip opening are the Lowepro Classified, Stealth Reporter, and there's the Tenba Messenger (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qIj-iPAuEd8).

[coldpenguin]

I would have thought that the zip is slower for access than the clips (at least it is on the orion trekker)

[chris321]

Is a shoulder bag with a velcro flap out of the question? Still very quick to open and close, or is it a protect-against-the-elements type thing?

Chris

[alexkidd]

i basically don't want to be opening and closing a flap constantly if i'm in an area where i don't want to be carrying the camera in my hands

will have a look at the previously suggested though :)