Kata KT D-3N1-30 Sling/Backpack (Black) Review
Kata KT D-3N1-30 Sling/Backpack (Black) Feature
- Easily convert your 3N1 from a right-handed sling to a left-handed sling or a backpack
- Features “Thermal Shield Technology” to ensure optimal camera protection
- Included rain cover folds neatly away into an integrated pocket
- Fast, one handed camera access with “Quick Release Buckle”
- Waist strap is included to provide maximum comfort to your back when using the 3N1 in backpack mode

OK, before I purchased this bag, I was debating on whether to buy the thinner 3n1-20 bag by Kata. I search the internet and it was pretty difficult to find a definitive answer, so I bought both. I am a Canon user and this is what I’ve concluded:
* 70-200mm IS f/4L mounted on the 5D MarkII or 1D Mark II does not fit the 3n1-20, however, both fit comfortably in the 3n1-30
* The Kata 3n1-30 fits and feels like a normal school backpack (I am 5′ 7.5″ tall, medium build). The 3n1-20 looks and feels alittle small, like a cute fashionable backpack for girls (girls, I don’t mean anything negative by this)
* The Kata 3n1-30 fits everything I need for a day out shooting (1D Mark II w/70-200 lens mounted, 17-40mm f/4, 430EX flash, flash cord, 100mm f/2.8 macro lens, 28-80mm f/2.8 lens, my hat, 2 16oz bottles of water, ziploc bag of snacks, car keys, cell phone, Garmin 60CSX GPS, spare batteries of the 1D and flash, ND and circular polarizer filters, and my 12 pack of 4GB CF memory cards with room left over in the top compartment.
* Build quality is excellent. Obviously not mil-spec, but looks very durable and I’m not afraid to drag it across rocks
* Complaints of the flaps not opening up all the way doesn’t seem like a big deal. Once the bag was setup to the way I want it, it didn’t matter whether the flaps opened up all the way.
** Something else to consider: I was also debating on whether I needed the 3n1-33 model which has a laptop compartment. I decided against it because this bag was purchased for travel/city photography. When I travel, I tend to bring my Tamrac Expedition 7 backpack for transport (this is where I keep my laptop) and pack my smaller/lighter backpack or bags. Once I get to my destination, I leave the Tamrac in my room and travel lightly with one of the smaller bags. All my downloading is done back in the room anyhow, so I felt I didn’t need to spend the extra for a laptop compartment.
That’s pretty much it in a nutshell. For a more detailed review, please visit my website: [...] and click on the blog for a complete review.
Kata KT D-3N1-30 Sling/Backpack (Black) Overview
Why choose between a backpack and a sling when you simply can pick up one of the new Kata 3N1 bags and get the best features of each type of bag? These unique bags provide ultimate freedom designed with three carrying options in one bag: right-handed sling, left-handed sling and backpack. Quick access to a camera has never been faster with a sling that offers a quick release and one-handed bag opening for camera access. Left-handed photographers can celebrate as they discover the first photo bag that can be configured as a left-handed sling. When not in a situation that requires quick camera access, convert the 3N1 into an ergonomic and comfortable backpack. All these product features come in a package that includes the unique combination of protection, light weight and style that has become Kata’s calling card. In sling position, the bag easily swings around from back to front providing quick draw access to your main camera & accessories via a quick release clip with single pull opening of the camera compartment door. In standard backpack position and “X” position (both straps crisscrossed over the user’s chest) you can comfortably carry your equipment for long distance walking when needed. The included balancing hip strap helps take the load of your heavy equipment off your shoulders. The 3N1-30 is designed to fit a D/SLR with a long range zoom lens attached and 5-6 extra lenses with accessories.
Kata KT D-3N1-30 Sling/Backpack (Black) Specifications
*** Product Information and Prices Stored: Aug 23, 2010 17:18:05