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Crumpler "6 Million Dollar Home" Review

May 17 2007: I recently picked up the Crumpler "6 MILLION DOLLAR HOME" Photo/Messenger bag at my local Samy's Camera store. After fiddling with and trying out both the 6 Million Dollar and 7 Million Dollar bags (I spent a good hour going through each one, putting in my lenses in various configurations with the dividers), I opted for the smaller sibling.

See each image for pictures and comments, but my verdict on the 6MDH (and 7MDH) is that it's VERY WELL built, has VERY GOOD comfort/ergonomics, doesn't "look like" a typical photo bag (for example, compare Crumpler's photo bags with their laptop bags and other messenger bags and they are very similar http://www.ebags.com/crumpler/the_dreadful_embarrassment/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=93396 ), and has VERY GOOD AMOUNT OF SPACE for your day out shooting.

Generally-speaking, my typical "day-trek" will consist of the 20D + grip, external flash, 18-200 OS, and 30 f1.4 (though sometimes I'll take the 17-55 IS and 100 F2 instead). In fact, with this exact setup, there still PLENTY room to add a standard zoom and other accessories. The bottom line is that ALL of this fits in the 6MDH. So while the 6MDH does lack a tripod mount (which would actually alter the intrinsic design of a "sling" bag), I give it my HIGHEST MARKS and RECOMMEND THE 6MDH WITHOUT RESERVATIONS. It's ESPECIALLY nice for those day-trips into the city or other urban environments.

Basic Information:
The 6 Million Dollar Home [6MDH] here in the USA retails for $105 and comes in 4 (exterior) colors: brown, black, red, and purple. You can see them all here at Crumpler's website http://www.crumplerbags.com/Cart/index.php?catId=22 . The interiors are a different color from the exterior, so in my case, my brown 6MDH has a green interior. I chose the brown/green 6MDH because I like how it looks with my general attire (viz., khakis or REI convertibles, polo shirt, earth tones). The fact that it DOESN'T SCREAM "PHOTO BAG" when you venture into the city makes it even more attractive IMO. Anyway, this is how Crumpler describes the 6MDH:

FEATURES...
"A protective environment for your basic photo and or video equipment that doesn't scream "photo bag!"
*Water resistant 1000D Nylon shell & 420D Ripstop Nylon lining
*External pocket with internal mesh pocket
*2x hidden internal side pockets
*Mesh zip pocket under clip & Velcro release flap
*Padded & Brushed Nylon-lined main compartment
*Configurable dividers
*Plastic stiffening layer in base
*Carry Handle
*Adjustable and removeable shoulder strap with removable shoulder pad
*Fully padded

HOLDS...
A digital SLR, vertical grip & "twin lens kit", external flash unit and basic accessories. There is no tripod holder.

DIMENSIONS...
12.6" W, 9.45" H, 7.1" D [9 liters; the 7MDH holds 15 liters]
27.7 oz [my scale found it to be 32.7 oz]

***You can find a review of the 7MDH here http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=211096 ***
Front 1
Front 1		 Front 2
Front 2		 3 Bags Compared
3 Bags Compared		 Compared to Toploader 75 AW
Compared to Toploader 75 AW
Compared to Adorama Slinger
Compared to Adorama Slinger		 Lenses with 6MDH
Lenses with 6MDH		 Crumpler Logo Bag
Crumpler Logo Bag		 Crumpler Logo Zipper
Crumpler Logo Zipper
Main Handle
Main Handle		 Padded Strap with Handle
Padded Strap with Handle		 Padded Strap - Removable
Padded Strap - Removable		 Exposed with 6 Dividers
Exposed with 6 Dividers
Bird's-Eye View
Bird's-Eye View		 Opened-Up
Opened-Up		 Large Mesh Net for Storage
Large Mesh Net for Storage		 Name Tag
Name Tag
Magazine with 6MDH
Magazine with 6MDH		 Front Pocket Section 1
Front Pocket Section 1		 Front Pocket Section 1 with Books
Front Pocket Section 1 with Books		 Front Pocket Section 2 (Velcro+Mesh)
Front Pocket Section 2 (Velcro+Mesh)
3 L Telezooms
3 "L" Telezooms		 3 L Telezooms in 6MDH
3 "L" Telezooms in 6MDH		 2 L Telezooms with Prime
2 "L" Telezooms with Prime		 5 Lenses + 1.4x TC
5 Lenses + 1.4x TC
Sigma 120-300 EX DG HSM
Sigma 120-300 EX DG HSM		 7-2f4IS Inside A
7-2f4IS Inside A		 7-2f2.8IS Inside A
7-2f2.8IS Inside A		 7-2f4IS Inside B
7-2f4IS Inside B
7-2f2.8IS Inside B
7-2f2.8IS Inside B		 7-2f4IS Inside C
7-2f4IS Inside C		 7-2f2.8IS Inside C
7-2f2.8IS Inside C

post a comment
Sam 25-Sep-2008 07:28
Update: got the 7MDH. What a lovely bag! Thanks for the help..
sam 21-Sep-2008 07:19
Hi lightrules, I have the lowepro slingshot 100 for when I'm out with just the camera +17-55mm IS. Its a great bag! I'm really looking for a bag to carry just the 70-200 f4 and 17-55mm IS with either one attached to the camera. Due to some of my photog plans its really important it doesnt have a 'technical' look about it which is why I like the look of the Crumpler! Just hope the 7MDH is not too bulky - the 6MDH seemed like a very manageable size!
lightrules 20-Sep-2008 21:14
Sam, have you seen the Lowepro Slingshot, Flipside, and Fastpack series? In addition to the 6MDH, I mostly use these days the Flipside 300 and Fastpack 250; great bags! But they don't have the "look" of the Crumpler.
sam 20-Sep-2008 18:12
Thanks Lightrules! I think I'll go for the 7 million in that case. Much appreciated..
lightrules 20-Sep-2008 15:11
Sam, if you look at the final 10 images on this page, you'll see some with the 70-200 f4 IS, which is the same size as the non-IS. It's a tight fit, as you can see it will close all the way but is "maxed out". I personally think it's too "strained", but some do use it and don't mind.
sam 20-Sep-2008 09:46
Hi Lightrules,

I know this post comes long after this review but thanks so much as this is the bag I want to get. Could you let me know if the bag is a comfortable fit for the 70-200 f4 L attached to a xxD? I noticed mentioned that it is a bit long with the 70-200 f2.8. Many thanks again!
fabian 29-May-2008 05:43
nice work!!...
i have hp mini note with a size about like asus eee pc...do u think it will fit in 6mdh front compartment?
thx
lightrules 17-Apr-2008 04:01
Steve, a 70-200 f2.8 lens might be a tad long mounted to a body for the 6MDH. If possible, I would recommend you try the set up at a local photo store that sells Crumpler bags. You may need the 7MDH.
Steve 17-Apr-2008 02:56
Wuld I be able to keep my nikon 70-200 attached to my D80?. on the 6 million?. Would there also be room for my 16-85 and sb 600?
lightrules 14-Apr-2008 19:11
The 85 and 100 should fit, but one thing about these shoulder bags is that you don't want to weigh them down too much as it can get uncomfortable if carrying around all day. But this is very much user-dependent too. It's a great bag, no doubt.
Kenny 14-Apr-2008 18:48
This bag is very tempting, I found one on ebay for about $51 plus shipping, it would be a little over $60, I think it may be used... not a big deal. I have the following lenes, 70-200 f/4, tamron 17-50, 85mm f/1.8, 100mm macro. Plus Canon XTi and a sigma 500 dg flash unit... would the 85mm and 100mm fit in one pocket? and would I be able to carry all that comfortably in this bag?
lightrules 23-Dec-2007 14:48
The 6MDH isn't designed for laptop use, so I'm not sure how you would secure it. I just can't give you more information on this. Best wishes.
Johnny L. 23-Dec-2007 10:26
Hi and thanks for the wonderful review.

I was wondering . . . I have a 15.4" laptop and it's about 13.2" long. Do you think it can fit into the 6 MDH although it is stated as 12.6"? You think the bag can stretch an extra 0.6" without damaging the bag?

I was debating whether to get the 6 MDH. Hopefully if it fits my laptop, I don't have to get the 7 MDH which is too big for my needs.

Thanks!
Johnny L.
lightrules 20-Dec-2007 20:52
The 6MDH is the perfect fit for you. It's really not all that big. If you want a sling-type, this is the one. Have a great time there.
Cori 20-Dec-2007 20:49
Hi,

Looking for a comfortable bag for vacations. We are going to Disney World for a week. I have a cannon digital rebel xt. I carry a speedlite 430 ex flash , usually a 300mm zoom lens, a couple of filters, cleaning supplies, and extra batteries. I'm trying to get a bag that is big enough, but not so big that I'm constantly looking for a place to put it. I'm trying to decide between the 6 million and the 5 million. Thanks for any info.
TWLreal 13-Dec-2007 03:41
Bleh. Been looking for a messenger bag that will accomodate a notebook and some camera equipment.
lightrules 12-Dec-2007 16:10
The bag isn't designed to take a laptop, so I wouldn't recommend it.
TWLreal 12-Dec-2007 06:25
Do you think I can fit a 13" notebook in the bag as well my camera equipment?

Assuming the computer fits, will the equipment be pressing on it in ways that might damage something?
lightrules 02-Nov-2007 17:48
Thanks for the comments, Walter. But FWIW, I did comment on the "no camera bag look" under the Basic Information section above. Here's what I said: "The fact that it DOESN'T SCREAM "PHOTO BAG" when you venture into the city makes it even more attractive IMO." Enjoy your Crumpler! ;-)
Walter O. Koenig "Amoxtli" 02-Nov-2007 17:32
Geat review, great bag. Crumpler products are excellent. I have the identical bag, same color even, and am very satisfied with it. What I like about it besides all the features that you show and describe is the fact that it doesn't look like a camera bag. That's helpful for me when I go to shoot urban art in areas that are not considered "safe". Again, great review. Thanks for doing this.
Best Wishes, Walter
sgidude 17-Oct-2007 12:19
Awesome work, thanks heaps !!!
lightrules 12-Oct-2007 15:42
The 6MDH's only strap is the one you see in image "Front 2". But this bag is meant to be carried like a messenger bag as it slings over your shoulder. I'm not sure if this clears things up for you though.
Guest 12-Oct-2007 06:39
One question, does the MDH6 have a cross strap that connects from the lower corner of the bag to the strap like on a regular messenger-style bag?
lightrules 19-Aug-2007 03:46
Nice pick up Joe, and thanks for the comments. As for Crumpler compensating me, let me encourage you to drop them a line for me ;-) Take care.
Joe W 19-Aug-2007 02:42
I bought a 7mdh based on your 6mdh review and I agree with everything you said. The only nitpick is the lack of seperate storage spaces for cards, batteries, business cards, cleaning kit etc etc. You kinda have to just throwm em all in the same big pockets. No biggie...the quality is great and the look and feel while carrying it is top notch. On a sports shoot I can take 20D with 70-200 2.8 attached (middle pocket), 1DMkII body (side pocket), 300F4LIS (other side pocket) and spare batteries, cards etc. I could fit another smallish lens next to the 300F4LIS but no need on the sports shoot. Great bag and thanks for the review. Crumpler should give you a kickback!
lightrules 15-Jul-2007 23:59
Hi Omar, to be safe, I'd go with the 7MDH. That would be my recommendation simply based on what you've listed. Even if the 6MDH fit it all, it would be tight. Enjoy.
Omar 15-Jul-2007 23:50
Hello, and thanks for the great review!

I am debating between this 6 Million and the new 7 Million Home. I want all my gear to fit in it, and hopefully you could help me to make it clear. I have a canon 30d with battery grip, a 430EX flash, 70-200 f4 L, canon 70-135mm, and a sigma 17-70mm. Do you think is there enough room for all of these? I want them to fit well without the bag being so tight. I plan to have the 17-70 or the 17-135 attached to the camera, and well I'll need a little of extra space for battery charger and one filter. And, that closing clip is enough strong to hold the gear inside without falling out the bag? What if the clip is not closed, and I have the bag on my shoulder.. is there too much risk of the stuff inside falling out?

Now that I see better the pics, I think the 7Million would adjust more to my needs, but not sure yet. Your opinion would be truly appreaciated. Thanks!
lightrules 12-Jul-2007 02:27
You're very welcome, Sara. I'm sure you'll enjoy it as much as I do. It really is a great bag.
Sara 12-Jul-2007 01:40
Thank you so much for this review. I ordered my bag because I saw this review. I just received it today and it's fab. :) Thanks again!
lightrules 11-Jun-2007 03:09
You are very welcome, and thanks very much for "appreciating" the review. I tried to make it the best review on the 6MDH on the web, and even if I haven't done that, I'm glad it's useful/helpful to you. It's also linked at Crumpler's official website under the 6MDH section (in fact I think it's the ONLY review they have of the bag there). I really like the 6MDH and it really is "not too small, not too big." Take care and enjoy.
puuikibeach 11-Jun-2007 02:51
Thank you SO MUCH for this detailed review of the Crumpler 6 Million Dollar Home, the many photos, and the extensive comment thread. I'm in the market for a bag, my research has led me to the 6 and 7 Million Dollar Crumplers... and the gear assortment you discuss here is almost identical to my own! (Canon 20D with grip, 70-200, 17-85, 10-22, a Lensbaby, and batteries and chargers). This bag sounds ideal -- big enough, but not too big. Even your comment about color choices is pertinent -- I was leaning toward the garish red one, just so I wouldn't misplace it while traveling, but you make good points about brown.

Anyway, great reviews, of this bag and of equipment in general. I've created a PBase account specifically to follow your reviews (and follow 'em up with questions from time to time). Thanx!
APP 05-Jun-2007 16:46
Thank you lightrules! That's exactly what I needed!
lightrules 05-Jun-2007 14:57
APP, I've posted 6 additional images (the last 6 on this page) that show how the 7-2f4IS and 7-2f2.8IS look in relation to the 6MDH. Hope it helps.
APP 05-Jun-2007 08:15
Thanks for the great review! It's really helpful and shows many things that usually interest people but aren't common to be shown.
There's just one thing - you wrote about a close fit and a bulge when the tele lens is on the body (with BP of course). Does any of the pictures show the bulge or better - how the bag looks after closing with such a setup? Does the front velcro show then and how much? I'm personally interested in the combination with the 70-200 f4. Any chances you could add a front view with the set and the bag closed?
I have considered the 7MDH to be too big for my needs, but if the 6MDH looks stretched then I guess I'll have to reconsider :( [no chance to check it myself :( ]
Thanks again!
Joe W 27-May-2007 06:10
Awesome, thanks for checking. Sorry to use up alot of comment space here but it was truly helpful.
lightrules 27-May-2007 03:37
Joe, I just checked the 20D+grip and 70-200 f2.8IS, and this combo does fit in the 6MDH fairly well. It is a little tight, but it does work, bottom line.
Joe W 27-May-2007 00:33
Well the smallest bag that will fit my needs is the best option ;) If you think the 6mdh will fit the 20D and 7-2 2.8 then that's all me.
lightrules 26-May-2007 20:47
You've got a lot of options out there, Joe. The 6MDH or 7MDH will definitely do you well with its own style also. But there is also the Lowepro Slingshot 300AW (sort of cumbersome IMO though) and the fine Domke bags. There are also the Tamrac Velocity bags, and specifically the 9x. If you can take something a little bigger than the 6MDH, I think maybe the 7MDH may be the perfect bag for your needs, all things considered.
Joe W 26-May-2007 20:41
Yeah I saw that review...seems their product is high quality. What I'd like is something I can carry around the Soccer field (or whatever type of field) and be able to open the bag, pull out the camera and shoot. And replace it in the bag just as easy.
lightrules 26-May-2007 20:02
Joe, that set-up will easily fit in the 6MDH. The only thing is that if you have the 7-2f2.8 on the body (in the center slot of the bag), like I said before, it will slightly bulge when you close it up. If you mount the 1750 on the body, and keep the big lens to the side, then it's no problem at all; it will close up nicely without a hint of anything "big" inside. Yes the 7MDH is bigger but I don't recall it being taller. Deciding between the 6 and 7 is tough; I went back and forth until I was blue. But I wanted the smallest bag that could fit my "day-trekking" gear, and the 6 easily did that. Have you seen the 7MDH review linked here http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=211096 ?
Joe W 26-May-2007 19:55
My ENTIRE kit consists of 20D, 85 1.8, 17-50 2.8, 70-200 2.8 and a 1.4 Kenko TC. I may get a flash in the near future (Sigma or Canon...haven't decided). With this kit in mind would you suggest the 6 or 7mdh? I am considering the lowepro but it doesn't look as nice.

lightrules 26-May-2007 19:06
Joe, it will fit, but it isn't what I'd call a "natural" fit. That is, while there is an adjustment on the outside strap that can loosen enough to make it work, it is a little bit large still. Does it snap and lock and close completely? Yes. Can you tell you have a "bulge"? Yes. So it's a little tight, but it will work. Hope this helps.
Joe W 26-May-2007 18:34
I am considering this bag based on your review. Do you think I could fit my 20D into the bag with a 70-200 2.8 lens attached? Thanks.
lightrules 19-May-2007 18:48
Okay, yes that's true it lacks a zipper for the main compartment. I actually prefer it this way for this kind of bag as it isn't intended to be completely "sealed" and "weatherproof". I think for backpacks and "heavy duty" use in the field, sealed zips and the like are boons; but for day-trips into the city or for general ease of use, I personally like the no-hassle, no-zip style of this "sling". It actually is protected quite well still though as the outside is water-resistant durable nylon material and has "flaps" that cover the inside when you actually pull the sling up to your shoulder. I guess I just don't see much of the elements being able to "slip through" unless it's a terrible downpour or some real bad weather. But your point is well-taken, and enjoy your Lowepro! I like my Lowepro gear too.
Farooq 19-May-2007 18:40
I meant no zip for the covering flap which is good dust protection, also there was no rain cover. How ever still Crumpler are good bags specially considering unique capacity for its type illustrated by your ‘3 "L" Telezooms in 6MDH’ picture.
lightrules 19-May-2007 04:57
Hi Farooq, what do you mean by "no zip"? Thanks for the comments though folks.
Farooq 18-May-2007 23:46
Thanks for the great website and wealth of information. One down side that I personally found with Crumpler was no zip, I opted for Lowepro Stealth instead and am quite happy with it. Keep on spreading the light with your excellent reviews !!!!
ML 17-May-2007 17:48
Thank you for the detailed review for this bag!
click on thumbnails for full image