ncphototrekker's Full Review: Tamrac MX5382, Mas Small Accessory Belt Pouch with...
Tamrac manufactures great camera bags with lots of thoughtful touches, but possibly one of the best aspects of these bags is the MAS (Modular Accessory System) attachment points. Their backpacks usually have four different points for MAS accessories along the outer sides. These are excellent for customizing your bag for your needs and include everything from water bottle holders, to lens cases. They are easy to switch out, but are very secure and can be left on for a very long time without concern.
The small accessory pockets offered by Tamrac are quite useful for a variety of uses. I initially purchased them to store batteries, first aid supplies, a hotshoe spirit level, and remote release for my Canon 40D. However, it turned out that my new Tamrac Expedition 7x was not quite a big as I had hoped, and I no longer had room for my round screw on filters inside of the bag as I had gotten used to with my previous Expedition 5. Out of necessity, I converted the new small pockets for use to carry the filters, and couldn't be happier.
As it turns out, these pockets are the perfect size to fit three round screw on filters in their protective cases (Hoya and B W are being referenced here). I have two of the pockets which allows me to carry a total of six filters on the outside of the pack which makes it very easy to access my filters without disturbing the contents inside of the bag.
Build Quality
These pockets are made of the same high quality material that the Expedition bags are constructed of. There is a large flap that folds over the contents, and has a Velcro closure for security. There is a handle built into the top of the pocket, although I am not completely sure why it is there.
The pocket attaches to the MAS attachment points in a standard fashion which is very secure. In addition to a lot of Velcro, there are two snap closures for added security. Once on the bag, you will not have any problem keeping them there, but they can be removed in seconds if you wish.
The materials used provide a moderate level of padding for protection. There is a good deal of rain protection for the contents, but be aware that this not a complete seal. Due to there not being a zipper, water and other contaminants can enter at the top on the sides, but there is enough overhang from the flap that this is a minor concern.
In the Field
As I mentioned, I use these pockets for filters, but they are equally useful for other small supplies or snacks. The biggest benefit is that you don't have to open the main compartment of the camera bag to access the contents. In many cases, you will be able to access the contents while the backpack is still on your back.
The size of the pockets is nearly perfect, and a great compromise between storage capacity and exterior space. I have found that they fit perfect on the lower MAS points on the backpacks, allowing for larger MAS equipment on the top points. Due to their size, they don't hang down below the bottom of the bag, so things are not disturbed when you set the bag down on the ground.
Final Thoughts
This is an accessory that you either need or don't need. If you don't carry much equipment, then you will probably be just fine keeping everything inside of your bag for simplicity. However, if you carry a lot of stuff, and getting into the bag is involved, then this is something to consider. I've found that these pockets are great for filters, or first aid supplies, batteries, spirit levels, and even remote releases. This is a simple (and cheap) accessory that can really increase the functionality of a Tamrac camera bag. I have no choice but to rate this accessory as a 5 star product.
This foam padded hook and loop closing pocket is perfect for camera backs and other small accessories. Quick attachment to any belt or the Modular Acc...More at Adorama
This foam-padded, fast-access pocket is perfect for camera backs and other small accessories. Quick attachment to any belt or the Modular Accessories ...More at Buy.com Marketplaces
This foam-padded, fast-access pocket is perfect for camera backs and other small accessories. Quick attachment to any belt or the Modular Accessories ...More at Amazon Marketplace
Epinions.com periodically updates pricing and product information from third-party sources, so some information may be slightly out-of-date. You should confirm all information before relying on it.
- Add to My Yahoo!: 
- Add to Google Homepage: 
© 1999-2009 Shopping.com, Inc.