PILOT 7L & 10L Premium Quality Messenger Bags for Photographers by Wotancraft

[@geofff6671]

Great review. I appreciate you showing the bags with mainstream sized lenses and bodies. So many reviews show premium bags stuffed with Leica lenses and bodies, which are small and makes it hard to gauge what the bag will hold in terms of regular sized systems.

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

Thanks for your positive feedback

[@rkdazet]

Thank you Mark! I've been using messenger bags quite a few years now. Haven't use a backpack for ages. These Pilot bags look like a very enticing upgrade from my old Lowepro Nova 180 AW which despite being capable of holding and organizing my kit has had some quality issues as well as a major flaw of not opening away from my body. The front buckle recently broke right before a shoot. I've contacted Lowepro twice about a replacement buckle and have had heard a peep from them one way or the other. Customer service is very important to me. Just a replay telling me the part is NLA is better than ignoring me. I do have the Think Tank Mirrorless Mover 30Ii which I like, but it lacks the zippered pockets for accessories that the Lowepro has for my cable release, filters, spare Z battery (Sony 7III) etc. The Think Tank won't IMO comfortably accommodate my A7III with Batis 40mm f2, Batis 25mm (or 18mm) plus Batis 85mm (or Sony 85mm f1.8) like my Nova,. Of course my wife will kill me if I buy yet another bag -- I have so many, including a couple relatively nice new Manfrotto bags one of which she gifted me! 🙂

[@danieldonner1852]

Thanks I ordered the pilot 7 size with pouches and am looking forward to lighter fully equipped shooting . You have a great deal of hands on wisdom in the photographic/ video endeavor

[@pratchsiri7153]

Great vdo with detail thank you so much ! I’m still thinking what size also . Or the color . So both even the 10L it’s pretty small ready right ? since it only fiit the 13” do you think can fit the new mac book pro 14” also from your vdo look like maybe can sqweez in ? And the 7L seems to be a good size also maybe foe camera . But only will fit the bidy and one lens maybe. … from the closeup I can’t tell witch one I like but maybe need both . 🤩

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

The 7L will take my A1 + three lenses. Maybe 2 lenses if you are using zooms instead of primes. I think the 10L will take a 14inch MacBook Pro as the 13inch has at least 1 inch free space beside it.

[@jmackultra]

I have been in the market for a waterproof messenger bags for my travels

[@kbstabs5982]

Great review, Mark.

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

Thank you kindly

[@Pharesm]

It wouldn't surprise me, if this video was the cause for WotanCraft's messenger bags being sold out everywhere, including the manufacturer itself... You expressed in the video, that a key part of your interest was based the bags being waterproof. Wotancraft don't seem to quite claim that much - on their website, they wrote "water repellent", which does not nearly equate to "water proof" So watch out for your gear if you're really getting into bad weather! They are still nice bags, of course, and some aftermarket rain cover will fix that, no doubt..

[@AlejandroGonzalez-AGS]

Very nice Review Mark. These bags look incredible. I’m sold in the 7L to start. Stay safe…Cheers!

[@TheArizonaHooligan]

I've used a Wotancraft messenger bag for about three years now. I recently re-waxed it to renew the waterproofing. The thing is bomb-proof. Anyone who purchases one should be extremely happy with it.

[@ashtonal.2634]

Hi Mark great review thanks, you helped me chose the 7L, HELP on there site it gives internal measurements as 32cm long mine is only 27cm! did you find your 7L bag smaller than advertised or did you not notice. Thank you. Al

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

I really haven't measured it. The important point is how much gear I could get in the 7L, which is why I had several photos of the contents that would fit inside, e.g., two camera snd two lenses, 1 camera and three primes or 1 camera and the 100-400 attached.

[@ashtonal.2634]

@@AlphaCreativeSkills thanks for replying Mark, mine won't fit the set up in your video at 13.15 that's why I was asking about size, I've emailed them just hope they will sort it. Thanks

[@lichtloper]

4:38 "the (WTCr) bags are waterproof" - Did you test their waterproof quality? I'm asking because I owned a densely 'woven' cordura backpack, excellent quality but it could only protect its contents during a short shower.

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

The cordura fabric is waterproof but a good bag design has to ensure zips and flaps prevent water entry. The top flap of the Pilot does this.

[@joshgonzalez2885]

Any chance at fitting a sigma 105mm f/1.4 in the 7L or just go for the 10?

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

I don’t own a sigma 105 but tried to use some known Sony lens sizes in this video

[@supertaufiqr]

Interesting bag with lots of feature.

[@jettubby17]

Thanks Mark, you made me order one! 😉

[@walkingmanvideo9455]

Can you fit a 12.9 inch iPad Pro in it? 10L bag that is.

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

I can fit a 13inch laptop into the 10L so I reckon there would be no issue with the 12.9inch iPad Pro

[@robertoalfalla256]

Thanks for a thorough and excellent review. I was looking for a new bag that checks all the boxes. just ordered the 10L version in charcoal. looking forward to house my Fuji gear and laptop.. etc..

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

Glad it was helpful!

[@chrisgibbsphoto]

Helpful review, thanks. Nice understated design too, great for blending in, something most PJ's appreciate.

[@2020-k8v]

Simply my favorite bag

[@leecollins5564]

Hi Mark. Excellent video as always, and a very detailed Wotancraft Pilot walkthrough. Subscribed. I'm considering either the 7L or 10L. Do you think I could get my Sony a6600, Sigma 16 & 56 F1.4, and Sony 70-350 G OSS into the 7L, and preferably with the ability to have the 70-350 attached to the camera? And maybe a bit of space left over for a rocket blower, a sandwich and snacks, an ND filter and a few lens wipes? Also, although the 7L is lighter, do you think the 10L being longer would help with weight distribution and make the bag feel more comfortable as far as any digging into the shoulder? I'm about to return a Thinktank Retrospective 7 because it feels a little heavy with the above gear and the strap digs in (mostly the unpadded edge trim around the padding) and is uncomfortable. Thanks.

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

I have had the SEL 70-350 G OSS in the 7L attached to a full-frame A1 body stored vertically to allow enough room for two primes. It is a more comfortable fit if the lens is stored vertically unattached but you can close the bag if attached. I don't own the Sigma 16mm F1.4, and I understand it is a large lens so can't comment, but I would typically store full frame f/1.8 primes as seen in the video.

[@gonzogorgonzola9153]

Great review!

[@1905milosz]

My opinion after a 2 week trip to italy. For that price NOT a nice bag and why?: -Top cover flap is allowing rain to get in, due to the fold design . - Strap quick release is in the way to mount a camera clip, quick release is opening very easy. Shoulder pad twisting when bag moved from front hold to back. - internal velcreo separators / organisers, very stiff pore to set up. Laptop compartment 😅. Front pocket and rear pocket no external padding feeling damp very fast. Price the same as Billingham quality lot lower.

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

Used this bag for a couple of years and never had rain get in - suggest you closed the flap inappropriately or over-packed the bag. Surely stiff velcro is a good thing - it is in my opinion. I think the durability of the Wotancraft Cordura fabric will be second to none.

[@arliceyoung1043]

Love those

[@arliceyoung1043]

Love these bag reviews because you talk about your workflow and share how you holster your camera.

[@cashmereclouds]

Ahhh I've missed you Mark!

[@igorivanov4421]

Why not Wotancraft Trooper ? is that less convenient ?

[@john_norris]

I know I'm late to the party, but just wanted to thank you for your comprehensive and engaging review, Mark. Your contextual narrative really helped. Still pondering, but I reckon I will initially try the 7L. Whilst I am mainly landscape (so full frame + 3 lenses + tripod etc), but want branch out and try some old school, small manual lenses - so a light kit bag will be ideal. The Scout looks an interesting alternative to the 10L Pilot. Best wishes,

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

I own the 7L and 10L but much prefer to pack down to the 7L rather than filling the 10L. I am in danger of carrying too much weight in the 10L. As crazy as it may seem I start with the bag and work backwards to decide what gear I am taking on location.

[@john_norris]

@@AlphaCreativeSkills Good advice, might help me simplify things! Cheers

[@RM-hy4so]

Can you put in a Sony A7R III with the 70-200 2.8 GM II attached in the 10L?

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

It’s a bit tight but it can be done - it will put a bulge in the top flap if the strap and buckle are tightened

[@TerryD23]

AT 4:17, I noticed the possible use of a belt strap? Was this an add on to stabilize the shoulder belt on the body? I like that idea. If so, what was used?

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

No belt strap here, just the bag swung around to the back of the person carrying the bag.

[@stefanusadrian8398]

Would 7L fit a7c with 24mm GM, 135mm GM and 50mm f1.4 GM?

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

Yes

[@johnpeter4184]

Wow!! Do you ever have heavy equipment. Hire a caddy. My interest is for an m43 bag Bye.

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

My personal preference is for full frame sensors (approximately 4x the surface area of an m43 sensor). I find 4 Kg in a messenger bag very manageable compared the pro DSLRs systems that used to weigh in at over 11 Kg in a backpack.

[@zKMotion]

great review, can't decide with the 7L or the 10L. Worried that the 10L might be to big and make me looks weird as I'm 5'7 in height.

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

I prefer the 7L for a lightweight mirrorless camera kit

[@simonsaysAdventureCalls]

Hi Mark I must say first foremost I have seen your videos over the years on many subjects Sony related and they are excellent and par to none thank you very much for providing such insights and clear reviews. Now to my question 2 Sony bodies with lenses attached 1 with tamron 70-180 (biggest when needed) and 1 with tamron 28-70 or gm 24mm 1.4 attached can they fit in a pinch when needed into the 7L ? I share your view exactly to why I would not want the 10l with me on a day excursion but my setup for travel work is always 2 bodies with lenses attached plus 1small wide angle zoom and a 1.4 gm prime. I would keep one in the bag if I can and one almost always on my body etc. I would still need water bottle rain coat very small packable and a puffer to be able to attach hence why I love this bag for its versatility and cool and unassuming camera look

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

Unfortunately I can't comment on the size of the Tamron lenses attached to Sony bodies as I don't own any (I am a Sony Ambassador). The bag will, however, take two bodies with two lenses attached as shown in this video review. I can offer detailed and personal support on my Patreon.com/markgaler support channel.

[@simonsaysAdventureCalls]

@@AlphaCreativeSkills the tamron is about 6 inches vs the sony 100-400 8 1/2 and more narrow

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

You will have to detach the 100-400 from the camera to use the 7L. You can use the larger 10L if you want to keep the camera attached to the lens in the bag.

[@hazardstorms226]

Hi Mark. Thanks for another great video! Using the 7L, could I fit the 70-200 vertically? And if so how many other lens could be fit in along with an A9 please?

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

the 70-200 will fit vertically but not attached to the body. This would take up 1/3 of the width of the bah so you could expect to get the camera with smaller lens attached plus room for one more.

[@PhotoTrekr]

Glad to have found your review of the Wotancraft Pilot bag. I've used used TT Retrospective bags in the past and liked them. But, I went back to my TT Speed bags which I've used for years. The Wotancraft Pilot is the only bag I've seen which might make me switch to a new bag.

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

Glad it was helpful! - I have owned many bags over the years - always in search of a bag that ticked all boxes and not just some boxes. I rarely review non-Sony products but made an exception for these WotanCraft bags.

[@stripes_in_raw]

Sir, this is off topic but i need a help. I am unable to use Real Time Tracking (Greyed out) on my A7R4 when Subject Detection is set to Animals. Is it only an A9 series option where Real Time Tracking works with Animals too hand in hand with Animal Eye AF. With my A7R4 i can only use either Animal Eye Af or Real Time Tracking ( Subject set to Humans but also tracks animals but doesn't detect eyes, face or body of animals) Thank You

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

The A9, A9ll, A1 and A7C can use tracking and animal eye AF. The others you have to choose.

[@stripes_in_raw]

@@AlphaCreativeSkills Thank you Sir but can the A6600 do it like the A9s, A1 & A7c ?

[@RobertDettmanImages]

Hi Mark. Good timing with this. My long-term Sony bag is having zipper problems. I'm wondering if you think the Pilot 7L bag could accommodate 2 x A6K cameras with small lenses plus the E 70-350?

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

Hi Robert - Yes I can confirm that would indeed be possible. The 70-350 with camera attached takes up the whole height of the bag. The front pockets are then large enough to take filters + spare batteries and a table-top tripod or attach a larger tripod underneath the bag.

[@RobertDettmanImages]

Great to hear. I’ll order a bag. Thank you.

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

I have just packed 2 x 7L bags for a Vietnam/Cambodia trip - I have a generous 14Kg carry-on allowance. In one bag I have an A6700 with 70-350, two wide aperture primes + a Sigma 18-50 F2.8 I will be reviewing.

[@atelevandos]

Will the 7L bag fit the Sony a7riv with Sony 24-105 f4 attached and a second lens Sony 16-35?

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

I am not currently traveling with those items but I am familiar with their size and I don’t see this to be problem - it should be a very easy fit if you are not packing that third lens.

[@justinmcq78]

I have an a6400. Would it still be good to get the 10L just to have the extra space?

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

The way I look at it is that if I carry a larger bag I am more likely to fill it with weight I don't really want to carry all day. I use the 10L when I am going to the airport and the bag will be over the handle of my wheelie most of the time and under the seat in front of me on the plane. I would not want to carry it with the weight on one shoulder for more than an hour.

[@thieuquang]

Great review! Can I put an iPad pro 12.9 into the 7L pilot bag? Many thanks!

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

Check the interval dimensions listed on one of my slides. My iPad Pro is the smaller one.

[@justinmcq78]

Which size would you use for street photography with an A7riv and 70-180 lens?

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

The Pilot 7L. Not sure I would describe the 70-180 as a street lens but you may have your own style.

[@sstokoe2301]

Just wondering how/if you can use the PeakDesign capture clip on these Messinger bags

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

Yes you can use the Peak Design clip with these bags - either on the shoulder strap or mounted directly to the bag itself (the two straps on the top of the bag)

[@sstokoe2301]

@@AlphaCreativeSkills ….so you have mounted the capture clip on yours….

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

I occasionally put it on the shoulder strap - just above where it meets the bag.

[@KAcastillo]

may i know if the ipad pro 12” can fit in the 7L?

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

My iPad Pro 11 inch is a very comfortable fit.

[@michaels7889]

This bag seems to have gone out of production and is unavailable in Netherlands and Germany.

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

They are new models. Did you use the links in the info below the video?

[@michaels7889]

@@AlphaCreativeSkills They seem inappropriate to the Netherlands with long distance postage. Probably not popular here Mark! Also not available in the UK at present: too popular and sold out. Your doing perhaps!?

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

Chris from dpreview.com just listed the Pilot 10L as his favourite messenger bag. The postage to the USA from the manufacturer is free and fast. Other countries are not so lucky.

[@nedjinski]

It looks rather sporting on that decidedly clean GS . . . . Does anybody ever ride that thing?

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

The bike has traveled more miles than I care to mention. I traveled overland between the UK and Australia and the after hitching a ride on a freighter it then traveled coast to coast across the USA. It has done many subsequent trips including the Sahara desert via the High Atlas Mountains.

[@nedjinski]

@@AlphaCreativeSkills Mark - I hope you know I was kidding. Being a lifetime beemer rider I have a big soft spot for these venerable machines.

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

They will probably bury my GS with me 😉

[@heyitsjoebob]

Could the 7L squeeze in a macbook air?

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

I think you would need the 10L for that. The 7L is iPad Pro size.

[@tocatlian]

Looks like the perfect bag! Do you know if it’s is available in Melbourne?

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

They are new bags so local suppliers may not yet have them available - I got mine delivered from Taiwan.

[@tocatlian]

@@AlphaCreativeSkills 🙏 Thanks for your note and consideration, Mark. Really appreciate all of insights you share on this channel. I’m getting so much more out of my a7r iii and will be shooting with the 50mm f/1.2 today for the first time in the streets of Melbourne.

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

Great lens - fast aperture and very fast focusing- a good candidate for the lens of the year award. Are you aware of my Patreon support site? Patreon.com/markgaler

[@whipsnadepoacher]

Sorry. It looks amateur. Cheap thin dividers and just a magnet to hold it closed. No thanks.

[@stephanedubarry8624]

Very useful

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

Glad you think so!

[@anthonyc1883]

More colors please, Wotancraft!! Faded green, faded purple...wow.

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

The faded purple is Charcoal Grey

[@ssaliba63]

Hi Mark, not sure about yours but this bag (pilot 10L) has a terrible smell… I do like it being light weight but definitely not up to the hype. This is my personal view as I compared it to my Billingham Hadley Pro and the two cannot compare in quality. The Wotancraft is useful no doubt but way overpriced when compared; sorry, I always trusted your reviews but this one fell short. It’s so evident that Wotancraft flooded KZbinrs with free products to capitalize on sales. Lesson learned, always touch and feel before throwing your money away; just my personal view - take care!

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

My Pilot does not smell at all. This is my bag of choice (hence the review) and Chris Nichols of dpreview.com voted it photography product of the year (above the A1 and Z9). I am not influenced by free merchandise as I usually purchase all my photo accessories.

[@ssaliba63]

@@AlphaCreativeSkills happy for you Mark, to each their own of course. This Pilot is so cheaply made and the worst part of it is the shoulder strap. I'll stick to my trusty and beautifully crafted Billingham Pro; this one will go on the Bay. enjoy yours in health.

[@BahramED63]

I have an unrelated question… As an amateur photographer for astrophotography, I’m looking for a wide angle lens… choice are between Sony 12-24f4 and Sigma 14-24f2.8… now the question is, combined with a7m3, which one is more important? Wider aperture or that extra 2mm?

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

It gets more complicated if you also consider a 20mm f/1.8 prime and merge 2 or 3 photos to widen your angle of view.

[@BahramED63]

@@AlphaCreativeSkills Thanks for reply 🙂 Hmmm… well I have 24-70 and 55 Zeiss… my idea was to get 12-24 and 70-200/300 to have a complete range… That’s were the idea comes from… what do you recommend?

[@robertcudlipp3426]

Will just hold on to my reasonably priced Lowepro (?sp) bags and 2 Billingham bags purchased second hand- overpriced brand new.

[@anthonyc1883]

There seems to be no end to the appetite photographers (and others) have for bags. It's kind of astonishing that there's anything new in bag design still left to be discovered/engineered.

[@AlphaCreativeSkills]

I think the appetite photographers have for their bags is the same as some have for shoes. One is never enough ;-)

[@robertcudlipp3426]

If Imelda Marcos had even a passing interest in photography, one can only guess at the vast number of camera cases, doubtless including numerous bespoke premium items made by Hermes, to protect their rarely used bag residents!