BlackRapid SnapR 35 Camera Bag Review

Features
Handling and Performance
Verdict
Specification
BlackRapid drew our attention to their brand when they launched the revolutionary R-Strap. They've since gone on to add a series of camera carrying accessories that include the SnapR bags - first the SnapR 20 and followed recently with this SnapR 35.

BlackRapid SnapR 35 Case: Features

For those unfamiliar with BlackRapid, their strap threads through a connector that screws into the camera's tripod thread, allowing you to draw the camera from waist to eye-level freely on the strap. This sling strap concept is taken a stage further with the SnapR bags as you can now house your camera in a padded and highly protected case at the base position. 

The connector has a tripod thread attachment (above left). Once in place this allows the camera to be raised from the case to eye level on the sliding strap connector (above right).
The SnapR 35 has the same size height (110mm) and length (170mm) found with the SnapR 20, but is  wider (125mm). The main compartment is about 85mm and accommodates a compact system camera with a zoom lens.

I'm an Olympus Pen user and the SnapR 20 holds a camera with a 17mm or Holga lens, while the SnapR 35 offers space for a camera with 14-42mm to be held comfortably.

The case is made from ballistic nylon with a smooth easy to clean base, and the strap attaches with 20mm Fastex style buckles.

The case can be removed from the strap and then the strap clips can be connected together for use as a standard sling strap. You can also turn part into a secure handstrap.

BlackRapid SnapR 35 Case: Handling / Performance

Everything from zips to strap fasteners is robustly made and gives you confidence in performance.

 

There's a padded and zipped compartment at each side of the main compartment. These are big enough to hold a smart phone on one side and a slim lens or spare batteries, memory cards etc on the other side. There is no internal pocket so smaller items like memory cards will slip around. A net pocket stitched into the side would be a good idea. 

 

The wider main compartment is perfect for cameras like the Olympus Pen EP-2 with a longer lens. It will suit other similar models from the likes of Panasonic or small bridge cameras from Fujifilm, Nikon, Canon etc.  You can see the smooth base in the photo above right. It's a rubberised material which is not only easy to clean, but doesn't slide around on smooth surfaces and actually provides a grip.

The inside of the main compartment has a soft lining on the base and I'm unsure why they didn't continue this around the top and sides as it seems to be a more protective material than the side/top lining.

Value for Money

The Black Rapid SnapR 35 is available for around £45 - this is good value as it provides the 3 in 1 quick access strap system, a wrist strap and bag. Normally a DSLR Black Rapid Strap system on its own would be around £50. The SnapR 35 holds your camera securely, but allows it to be accessed and used unrestricted without detaching the case. This versatility means you're unlikely to leave the case behind and lose it.

BlackRapid SnapR 35 Case: Verdict

Having used the SnapR 20 regularly for several months (as the case I take the camera in while out on the bicycle) I was already sold on this case. It's actually something I'd wished for and has made my enjoyment of using the Olympus Pen greater now as I can go out with the 14-42mm knowing the camera is protected well. The concept is great, and well thought out. The versatility is good too. If you are out on a fine day you can ditch the case altogether and make use of the strap system. I will keep the SnapR 20 and switch between the two depending on what lens I decide to go out shooting with. Next I'd like BlackRapid to create a cycle strap accessory attachment, so you could fasten it to the tube of the frame.

This 3 in 1 bag/strap combo reinforces BlackRapid's innovative thought process. Protection and versatility combine with ease of use to provide a perfect solution for compact system camera owners.

BlackRapid SnapR 35 Case: Pros

Compact
Quick access glide system
Versatile 3 in 1 strap option
Pocket for phone, documents
Easy to clean base

BlackRapid SnapR 35 Case: Cons

No small pocket for memory cards
Soft lining only on base of main compartment

FEATURES
HANDLING
PERFORMANCE
VALUE FOR MONEY
OVERALL

Visit BlackRapid's website for more information.

BlackRapid SnapR 35 Specifications

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