One of the Best Camera Bags of 2020 Just Got Even Better
Earlier this year, I put together a list of the best camera bags of 2020. At the top of that list is the HEX Ranger DSLR Sling bag.
As I noted in that article, I didn’t come to the decision that the HEX Ranger was tops in 2020 lightly. Every bag on that list is something that I either own or have extensively tested. I know the HEX Ranger inside and out. I’ve put it through its paces over the course of a year. It is a killer camera bag. I make these very points in my one-year review of the bag, which you can see below.
As I alluded to in the video, HEX has been hard at work on an updated version of this bag.
Given all the superlatives I’ve thrown around in describing the original HEX Ranger, I wasn’t sure how much better the new version could be.
Well, I’ve got the new version in my hot little hands, and it is definitely an upgrade. Let’s get into why the HEX Ranger Sling Bag is better than ever before.
But First, a Few Specs...
The core of the updated HEX Ranger Sling Bag is the same as the original. It still holds up to eight liters of gear. HEX still uses high-end materials like genuine YKK zippers and Cordura fabric to ensure long-lasting durability and functionality.
What’s more, HEX retained the same superb design - the upgraded Ranger still hugs your body every bit as well as the original version. That’s a huge bonus because sometimes companies change things that were perfectly fine to begin with. The comfort of this bag didn’t need tweaking at all!
Other specs include an easy-access front organizer for smaller items, multiple hidden velcro stash pockets for things like memory cards or car keys, and a faux-fur lined pocket for your tablet. There’s a faux-fur lined pocket for your phone or sunglasses as well.
Of course, the updated version of the Ranger Sling has the same collapsible interior dividers. These come in SO handy for keeping gear organized when you need it, and when you don’t, being able to collapse the dividers make the bag extremely packable.
This bag retains the side adjustable load straps and the adjustable bottom carry straps from the original Ranger Sling as well.
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The HEX Ranger Sling Version 2 Has Upped the Comfort Level
As I noted in my one-year review of the original HEX Ranger Sling, one of the nitpicky things I didn’t like is that the strap was on the short side for me.
I’m a big dude, so sometimes I find that camera bag straps are a touch uncomfortable because they don’t allow the bag to hang low enough on my torso.
Well, HEX read my mind because the updated Ranger Sling has a double buckle strap, which allows for increased flexibility for larger and smaller sizing. So not only is this new version better-suited for tall guys like me, but it also fits folks like my wife, who is much smaller, much better.
Additionally, HEX has added increased padding on the shoulder pad. This was another minor detail about the original Ranger Sling that I identified as something I’d have changed.
Again, HEX delivered with more padding so the carrying experience - which was already really comfortable - is even more comfortable now.
HEX added more padding on the top lid of the bag as well, giving the interior of the bag more protection from outside forces.
But as they say, last but not least, HEX has integrated their hideaway rainfly that is found on it’s larger DSLR bags! It stuffs away in a secret velcro pocket on the back of the bag when not in use. And it’s right there when you need it for extra protection when you are caught in that cloudburst. The rainfly even has a reflective logo print on it for added safety. That’s some great added value!
The HEX Ranger Sling Version 2 is a Go-Anywhere, Do-Anything Bag
Like its predecessor, the HEX Ranger Sling Version 2 is a bag you can take to the mountains or beach, on the street or to a portrait shoot, and just about anywhere in between.
There’s room for your DSLR and related essentials, or in my case, more than enough room for my mirrorless kit or my drone kit when need be.
Whatever I’m carrying, the compact, lightweight design makes it an easy carrying experience (the flush grab handle helps with that too). And now that the Version 2 has a hideaway rainfly, I don’t have to run for cover when the occasional rain storm hits!
For a bag that measures just 14.5"L x 7.25"W x 4.75" and weighs 1.3 pounds, the HEX Ranger Sling Version 2 sure packs a mighty punch.
As good as the original HEX Ranger Sling was, Version 2 kicks it up a notch! But HEX has made sure that these upgrades don’t come with an upgraded price. The Ranger Sling is still priced at $99.95. This may be the best feature of all for such a quality bag.
Grab your own Ranger Sling Bag by visiting HEX Brand.