Kata HB-205 GDC Hiker Backpack for DSLR system or DV/HDV camcorder. (Insertrolly optional)

by Kata

Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 13 x 10.5 x 20 inches ; 8.5 pounds
• Shipping Weight: 9 pounds
• Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
• ASIN: B000H3OD0S
• Item model number: KT HB-205
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Date first available at Amazon.com: June 17, 2003

Product Description

HB-205 Hiker Backpack features a level of protection you haven't seen before; KATA's TST protection safeguards the camera compartment and the bottom of the case. The extensive main compartment easily accommodates 2-3 D/SLR bodies with up to 8 lenses (up to 400 mm f 2.8). The case is set up with modular dividers, and if additional division is necessary, KATA's Modi-Vers Kits can be purchased separately. 2 soft TST open side pockets will hold water bottles, small tripod etc., and an assortment of pockets all work together to provide the ultimate carrying and protecting solution for outdoor photographers. A tripod can be carried while attached to the backpack by using tripod holder. The HB-205 advanced harness system is designed to allow for ultimate adjustment of all features; shoulder straps, 6 point adjustable waist belt, and lumbar pad, ensure the perfect ergonomic fit for each individual carrier. When not in use, the harness can be neatly folded out of the way to allow for easy storage and to allow the addition of KATA's Insertrolley.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

4 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Great, but don't overload it if you're flying!, December 27, 2007

By 

DeadPirate2 - See all my reviews

This review is from: Kata HB-205 GDC Hiker Backpack for DSLR system or DV/HDV camcorder. (Insertrolly optional) (Electronics)

I originally bought the KATA 502 backpack because I was worried this one wasn't big enough, but the 502 is TOO BIG. it's over airline specifications and just generally gigantic. This one (205) is a much better sized option, with plenty of storage space.


In the main compartment I can comfortably fit my DVX100B, extra lenses, charger, batteries, two microphones, tapes, external hard drive, filters, and a whole mess of cables. My 17" widescreen laptop (in a sleeve/case) fits easily into the back and is well protected.

I have always gotten through airport security just fine, but I did have trouble the first time I tried to fit it in an overhead compartment. Now it's fine, I just learned not to overload the outside pockets when flying (empty them if you can). It gets pretty heavy anyway, so think about your back too!

Generally, a well constructed and designed bag. I bought it to eliminate the number of extraneous bags and cases I usually travel with, and it's perfect for that. Only took off a star because of my overhead troubles.

2 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars A great video bag, March 7, 2008

By 

cvu (Northern California, USA.) - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Kata HB-205 GDC Hiker Backpack for DSLR system or DV/HDV camcorder. (Insertrolly optional) (Electronics)

This fantastic bag is a perfect fit for my DV production gear: A Panasonic DVX100 with several mikes, a wide angle extender and several smaller items. It is a tight fit, though, but I wanted to have the ability to carry the bag on board commercial flights. The next model up, the HB-207, is slightly larger with a top pocket and a laptop computer sleeve, but it's out of the question as a carry-on item.

The shoulder straps could use a bit more cushioning but two automobile seatbelt covers wrapped around them have solved the problem for me. I recommend you look into the Porta-Brace line of pro video backpacks before buying. They're the industry standard for video and film production and their products match or better the Kata's features at nearly the same price.

Finally, another good point is that the bag doesn't look too flashy or expensive, so you won't walk around with a 'rob me' sign on your back, like you would with some other video packs. The weather cover does have a very large Kata logo printed on it, though. Overall a good investment.