One of the coolest DSLR accessories I have been able to use lately is the Crossback Sling and Holster System from the people at Crooked Horn Outfitters. While several companies make DSLR camera slings, this is the first time I have seen a sling and holster combination. Retailing for $124.99, the Crossback DSLR camera system allows the photographer to have quick access to his or her camera while at the same time allowing it to be stowed away when not in use. When I opened the package from Crooked Horn Outfitters, I was a bit underwhelmed. The system is comprised of the sling, stabilizing strap, belt, and holster unit and nothing looks all that impressive or flashy.
Putting everything together and wearing it, however, made the benefits and price point of the system completely apparent and justified. I take photos at events – usually big ones like Comic-Con, E3, or CES. I come into contact with thousands of people on a daily basis as I weave in and out of crowds, snapping pictures along the way to my appointments. Having my hands free to use is of the utmost importance, both for personal protection as well as utility. With the Crossback, I can transition from smartphone camera to DSLR camera in a very timely manner, which is something I do quite often as we also put out pictures on social media. If you are an outdoor photographer who goes hiking or into areas far from civilization, you would be seriously remiss not to check the Crossback out. In fact, it was practically made for photographers just like you. Mountaineering, hiking, camping, the Crossback holster is perfect.
The sling and stabilizer strap are both made of a durable nylon material that won’t rip anytime soon and the belt is a durable nylon belt that can easily withstand the weight of the camera resting in the holster. The belt buckle, however, is a little on the flimsy side, feeling like a cheap plastic. That being said, in all my wearing of the system, it never broke or failed, it just doesn’t feel as rugged as the rest of the Crossback system. The holster is padded and will not scratch your camera up while using it.
That is, with the exception of one issue: The diameter of the holster opening. I use several types of lenses in my travels. 35mm and 50mm prime lenses, an 18-55mm kit lens, and an 11-16mm wide angle lens. Unfortunately, the wide angle lens has a very hard time in fitting into the holster. It has a 77mm filter end that just will not insert into the holster without two hands to push it down inside. I would have liked to have seen the holster be just a smidge wider to accommodate those types of lenses. Now, admittedly, that lens is pretty wide as lenses go – I had no issues with any of my other lenses, including a 55-200mm long lens.
Aside from this issue, the Crossback DSLR holster system from Crooked Horn Outfitters makes active photography very easy by freeing up your hands when you need them, allowing you not to worry about if your camera is flopping around banging into things. With the Crossback, it stays in place until you need it. The Crossback DSLR camera holster system is available now at both Crooked Horn Outfitters official website as well as e-tailers like B&HPhoto.
[easyreview title=”Crooked Horn Outfitters Crossback Sling and Holster System Review Score” cat1title=”Overall Score (out of 5)” cat1detail=”” cat1rating=”5″ ]
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