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Backing packing with a SLR is a bit of a challenge when compared to using in
a point and shoot camera which is easily attached to a pack shoulder strap.
Having the camera handy as you hike is desirable. A conventional neck
strap allows the camera to bounce or it must be held in one hand while walking.
This strap attaches to the sternum strap of any backpack. The
camera is easily released for shooting and the neck strap still provides
security. The neck strap can be used for shooting without a pack.
The parts:
| Description |
Cost |
Image |
| 3/4" nylon strap about 2 yards |
1.35/yd |
 |
| 3/4" ladderloc buckle |
.40 |
 |
| 3/4" Triglide (standard or wide mouth) |
.30 |
 |
| 3/4" D ring |
|
 |
| 3/4" Snap Hook |
.40 |
 |
| 1/4" x 20 x 1/4" Pan head machine screw.
Slotted is desired since most folks can tighten with a Swiss army knife
or spoon. These screws are fairly flat. Commercial screws are more
expensive and will stick out more and press against your chest. |
.25 |
 |
| Size "O" grommet. Kits are about $40!
Optional see below. |
|
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Parts may be purchased at a local backpacking gear supplier or online at
www.therainshed.com.
Directions:
- Cut a piece of webbing 6" long. Melt the cut end to prevent
fraying (I use my gas stove, but a lighter or propane torch will work).
- Fold in half and install the D ring.
- Stitch a 3/4" square to connect the ends. Stich twice
around.
- Install a "O" grommet. Note if you don't have a grommet tool
you can simply burn a 1/4" hole in the stitched end of the webbing using a
hot nail. Use a flat washer with the screw.
- Make the neck strap using remaining webbing cut to the desired length.
You can adjust the lengh to allow for use with a backpack (shorter) or
without (longer). Note: You can make multiple straps for
different uses. I use 3/4" webbing for backpacking (lighter and
compact). You might use 1" or 1.5" webbing. Buy hardware
for larger webbing.
- Stitch on the ladderloc buckle. Assemble the parts as shown
in the photo.
Camera strap. 3" loop seems to work well. Longer lets the camera flop
more and shorter is harder to thread the sternum strap through.
Neck strap hook detail. Notes: Triglide prevents hook from moving
on the strap and also can be used to hold loose end. If you are a
minimalist just sew a loop with the hook, not adjustable but very simple.
Complete neck strap.
Strap installed on the camera
Strap connected to the Sternum strap (neck strap not connected).
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