Traveling with the Nikon 600 mm f/4 VR (1 Viewer)

Hi Folks,

I am looking at a birding trip that involves travel (by train / bus) for me and my Nikon 600 mm f/4 VR and I was wondering if I could look at taking the lens along with me in the CT-607 Trunk Case in which it was sold.

In case I go by bus the Trunk Case (and the lens in it) would be in the luggage bay and may get tossed around a bit, in case I go by train it would be below my berth and have a relatively far smoother passage

While on this topic -- I am also wondering about using the Trunk Case; while the padding in it is impressive and the lens fits into it snugly, the tripod collar seems to be in the way and I am having to apply some pressure to bring the top down. Is this something that will go away with use?

Again, while on this topic, is there a camera bag that will allow me to travel with the lens (and attached TC and DSLR) and another camera, tripod, gimbal, etc? Is it advisable to travel with a TC attached to the lens?

Looking forward to advise / feedback from those who have been there, done that

Warm Regards,

Anand

Anand_Vishwanadha said:

Again, while on this topic, is there a camera bag that will allow me to travel with the lens (and attached TC and DSLR) and another camera, tripod, gimbal, etc? Is it advisable to travel with a TC attached to the lens?

Looking forward to advise / feedback from those who have been there, done that

Warm Regards,

Anand

Click to expand...

Hi Anand. Whilst I can't comment on the suitability of the Nikon case (or suggest an alternative) for long haul travel, I can say that I'd never put a very valuable lens in the luggage hold of a bus or under the seat on a train (constant vibrations) but if there is an overhead bin ? Yes, if not then close to me !

Also you should never travel with a TC or DSLR attached since this is by far the weakest link and it's not a stretch to imagine damaging the mount (of any ; the camera, the lens or the TC). Same reason why heavy lenses should always be supported and not left to hang off the camera (when on a strap).

Considering the values involved I would consider getting a matching size pelican case with customized foam padding for transport from A to B......
Also less obvious re contents than the Nikon trunk.

Thank you Frogfish and as it turns out, I am traveling by train and will be on an upper berth. Most probably I will heft the lens onto the same berth

Yes seaspirit, I am looking at getting a Pelican as well and yes the "obviousness" of what is inside is a big worry. The problem is that anything to do with lenses cost a bomb! But a man's gotta do what a man's gotta do, I guess

How about checking from Think Tank Photo Airport series? http://www.thinktankphoto.com/categories/rolling-camera-bags/airport-series.aspx

Thanks Horukuru, I just checked the site you mentioned and those strolley bags do look good but a tad too small for this monster. Could you share the specific model that you think will work for the 600 mm?

BTW, I took the original CT-607 case with me for the lens and it was easy enough to travel with. I hoisted it into my train berth and secured it with a chain that I locked