I have owned only Lowepro bags for around 14 years as I don't trust any other to carry my photographic gear. I had been looking at the new Primus AW backpack to replace my Rover AW backpack and shopped around for prices and information. While surfing eBay, I came across the Primus bag, brand new and a lot cheaper than what was available locally. I was initially a little suspicious, but after looking at the seller's rating (99.8% positive and with well over 1,000 sales) I felt pretty safe, put in a bid and won the bag.

After a little over a month and some light work, I noticed a tear alongside a zipper. I was very surprised - I've never had a problem with a Lowepro bag before. I initially contacted the seller concerning the damage. He replied that he would look into it, but I would need to pay all postage, and that he would be charging over AUS$50.00 to ship the bag from his end and asked me if it was worth the hassle. I then contacted Maxwell International concerning the warranty, who were happy to help. At their request I sent the bag in... to find out it was a fake.

It definitely pays to buy Lowepro gear from reputable local Lowepro stockists. Apart from the issues with the warranty (which I have yet to use on a 'real' Lowepro bag), you know you are buying the genuine product.

Nathan Van Der Meulen
9 May 2008