The Billingham Eventer II is the latest camera bag from UK-based manufacturer Billingham. This bag was an update on the previous version which was probably the most expensive camera bag Billingham produced at the time. The Billingham Eventer II currently holds the position as the most expensive camera bag produced by the company.
Billingham bags are more than just a price tag. Billingham has consistently produced quality to support its price point. It is for this reason that I and many other photographers continue to buy and use their bags. Having said that, at more than double the price of their most popular bag, the Hadley Pro, the Billingham Eventer MKII is definitely in its own category.
What’s new?
Billingham Eventer MKII is a small update over the original version. There are some things that have been removed and some new additions.
The most obvious update on the new Eventer bag is the addition of a leather underside to the top handle. The leather underside makes it more comfortable to hold and use the bag in briefcase fashion.
Previously, the top handle with the rough underside became uncomfortable to hold after a while. This is a problem especially if you have a decent amount to carry in your pocket. With the addition of a leather bottom, the top handle provides more comfort, thus allowing you to hold the bag for longer periods of time.
Another obvious change to the top part of the Billingham Eventer MKII is that the fabric border below the top handle has been removed. This doesn’t make any functional changes and is purely an aesthetic change. Personally, I like the fabric on the previous model as it provides a degree of stiffness to the top cover.
MKII is on the right
The second major addition to the MKII is the luggage trolley strap on the back. If you’re traveling with a suitcase with an extendable handle, you can attach the Billingham Eventer MKII to the handle via the stroller’s strap. Stroller straps seem to be a popular addition to many new Billingham bags. This obviously results in a better user experience.
Other changes include the addition of a waterproof zipper and deeper padding on the bottom of the insert. These two additions will provide better protection for whatever you carry in the Eventer MKII.
Despite the fact that the zipper has been upgraded with a waterproof feature, the zipper can remain as it was originally. Full brass zipper with Billingham branding for an extra premium touch. New zippers are probably easier to use, and the ropes can help keep your hands from slipping. However, one could make the argument that a pragmatic approach is not necessary for every little aspect, especially when it comes to luxury products.
Why can’t I recommend this bag
The Billingham Eventer series is my favorite series from Billingham. This series of bags is the only bag currently available from the company with a leather bottom section. They’re also large enough to manage a good amount of devices, including a reasonably sized laptop. Unfortunately, it’s hard to recommend for a number of reasons.
First, there are more cost-effective options available from Billingham. Eg, Hadley One is a great alternative. It may not have a series hook because of the leather on the bottom, however, it is less expensive, can carry a fair amount of gear, and comes in more colors.
Even when you factor in the additional cost of having to buy the insert separately, it’s still significantly less expensive, not to mention the fact that it’s also a bit heavier. Remember that your shoulders will carry everything.
Second, the Hadley One is an easier to use and more practical bag. It features a removable shoulder strap, independently accessible front pockets, and an easier-to-access main compartment. The only downside to this bag is that it doesn’t include a full shoulder pad and accessories when you buy it. Both shoulder pads and full pads need to be purchased separately. However, even when you factor these costs in, Hadley One is still significantly cheaper.
Basically, the only areas where the Eventer MKII is better are the slightly larger capacity and the iconic bottom skin.
If you can afford it
Expensive Billingham Eventer MKII. It is even more expensive than what the Eventer was originally priced at when it was first released. As noted above, the Eventer MKII is currently the most expensive camera bag made by Billingham. However, if you can afford it, it might well be the best bag they’ve produced to date.
It is a bag manufactured with premium materials and exhibits exceptional craftsmanship. Billingham uses top grain leather, a higher grade leather than many manufacturers use. The benefit of full grain leather is that it can be produced with a consistent look and retains nearly all of the benefits of full grain leather.
The overall design and larger capacity also play a big part in making this bag great. If you require a bag of similar capacity then the only alternative from Billingham is the 207 and this bag doesn’t have the same striking elements as the Eventer MKII.
The Billingham Eventer MKII is a bag that really stands out. The updates compared to the original make for a more practical and comfortable bag to use. If this is a bag you can afford, you’ll be pleased to have it.
What I like
- A beautifully handcrafted bag.
- High quality material.
- Highly durable and weather resistant.
- The improved top handle makes a big difference.
What I don’t like
- This bag is expensive.
- Difficult to recommend due to available alternatives from Billingham
- At 1.78kg, it’s a heavy bag
- Detachable shoulder strap is not included.
- Might be too big
