Accessory Review: Manfrotto Solo VI DSLR Holster Bag
The Manfrotto Solo VI DSLR holster bag is a member of the company's
Stile collection, a lineup that's composed of fashion-conscious camera
totes. Holster bags are ideal for photographers who want to be able to
unsheath their cameras quickly, while not sacrificing the added
protection of a serious camera bag. The Solo VI represents Manfrotto's
premiere holster model, and accommodates a full-frame DSLR (a short-body
model like the 5D Mark III, as opposed to a professional model with
integrated vertical grip) with a 100-400mm lens attached. More compact
models like the Solo IV and Solo II can house DSLRs with 17-55mm and
18-35mm-type lenses, respectively.
The internal compartment of the Manfrotto Solo VI measures in at 16cm
(6.3") L x 12cm (4.72") W x 24cm (7") H, which is ample space to fit a
'short body' full-frame camera like my Canon EOS 5D Mark III, with a
24-105mm lens attached. I was able to extend the lens to the full 105mm
focal length setting and there was still over an inch of volume left
over at the top. However, there are some 400mm lenses that are absolute
beasts and I'm not sure the Solo VI would be able to handle them. In
that regard, it's best to err on the side of caution and plan on using
the Solo VI for more conventional focal lengths (or try before you buy,
if you get the opportunity). One thing to note is that unlike some bags,
the Solo VI does not have a velcro-based lens strapping, but I found
that was not needed since the camera fit snugly in place.
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| Style remains at the forefront with the Manfrotto Solo VI DSLR holster bag. |
The Manfrotto Solo VI is designed to accommodate a
small-body (5DIII/D800 style) full-frame DSLR with up to a 100-400mm
lens attached. |
Externally, the Manfrotto Solo VI is a sexy number, flaunting the
company's arrow-inspired bag logo via a raised stitching pattern along
the main flap of the bag. This flap contains a rugged aluminum buckle
that connects to a plastic male fitting at the bag's base. Nuances like a
cylindrical rubber Manfrotto logo and embossed Manfrotto tripod logo on
the buckle add to the general feel of a stylish, and deliberately
styled
product. For durability and security, all panels of the Solo VI bag are
fortified with stiff foam material, which also adds cushioning to the
camera and contents. There's a solid nylon handle at the top of the bag
for an alternate carrying option, and the zipper system is top qualiy.
I only have a few gripes with the Solo VI, the first being that I
wish Manfrotto had added some sort of padding to the bag's strap, as it
tended to dig into my neck. Unfortunately, this can't be remedied by
just swapping for another strap because the Solo VI's strap is sewn into
the body of the bag. As a result, you'd need to get pretty creative to
make this strap comfortable when you're carrying around the weight of a
camera and lens. Also, there are no external pockets on the Solo VI;
even the flap is devoid of a zip pouch. I think the Solo VI would
benefit from at least a pair of mesh zip pouches on either side.
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| I used the gimmicky 'Pocket' pocket for storing memory cards rather than the company's branded mini tripod. |
Quick release is the name of the game with the Manfrotto Solo VI holster bag. |
Internally, the Solo VI offers a sleeve that can accommodate things
like batteries and memory cards, but not much more than that. Manfrotto
also stitched a 'Pocket' pocket into the sleeve, designed to hold the
company's '
Pocket' branded DSLR tripod.
I saw no need for the Pocket... pocket, especially since it's a
borderline useless accessory for someone shooting with a large DSLR. I
stuffed memory cards in there instead.
I also think Manfrotto missed an opportuinity to increase the
internal storage space by neglecting to sew a few sleeves or pockets
onto the inside of the main flap. When the flap is raised to unsheath
the camera, its underside is the most accessible portion of the bag.
Having a few pockets in that location would make the bag more versatile.
Summing Up
The Manfrotto Solo VI holster bag is undeniably swanky and very well
made. It can accommodate a short-body full-frame DSLR with a walkaround
lens attached (Manfrotto claims up to 400mm) and performs just as
advertised, enabling photographers to whip out a Mark III or D800 at the
drop of a hat. However, the Manfrotto Solo VI trades style for function
in a few key areas, namely the lack of external sleeves/pockets and
omission of a neck strap cushion. The latter can be fixed with a little
ingenuity, but photographers who are looking for the creme de la creme
of storage-happy holster bags might want to look elsewhere.
What we like: Superb build quality,
scintillating style, accommodates full frame DSLRs with larger lenses,
5-year warranty after registering online.
What we don't like: Lack of
pockets/sleeves, no cushion on strap, 'Pocket' pocket is gimmicky and
unnecessary, unless you own a Manfrotto 'Pocket' Tripod. Price is a bit
steep, compared to other models with more storage options.
