Pearstone Onyx 50 Lens Case

Granted, the DA16-50mm lens is the most utilized lens I have, but there are times when it is better to use something longer, or wider; which brings me to this review.
The DA16-50 and the DA 12-24 are both “fat” lenses (77mm diameter filter thread) and both use an even “fatter” Bayonet Type lens hood, making it sometimes difficult to find a case, because the large petal shaped (Tulip) lens hood snags on the sides or must be removed for lens stowage.
Unless I am shooting a specific subject, I will generally carry two lenses, one on the camera and one in a side case (lens attached to my belt. Not only does this usually provide ample lens flexibility and handy access, but I also find the side case convenient for lens changing.
Recently, upon the advice of a friend, I purchased a Pearstone Onyx 50 lens case from B&H and am now glad that I did. Priced at $16.95, it did not seem like a bad deal – if it served the purpose.
The Pearstone Onyx 50 is made of strong, heavy-duty, weather-resistant ballistic black nylon with interior padding and Velveteen lined interior. It sports a lid having weather-resistant double zippers large enough for a man’s hands to grip and a mesh accessory pocket inside for a lens cloth or small items. A double touch fastener belt loop on the rear of the case allows easy and secure attachment to a belt. Or, a shoulder strap may be attached to two eyelet loops on the sides.
When I received the Onyx case I was happy to see the heavy duty materials and quality workmanship. Best of all, the 16-50mm and my 12-24mm with lens hood reversed in the stowed position, fit in the Onyx like a glove. The padding of the Onyx 50 is thick and ample though-out the case to provide protection. And, the heavy duty case is sturdy enough to permit easy lens changing without any folding or the lid dangling in the way.
Sound interesting? B&H carries eight differently sized Pearstone Onyx lens cases, ranging in price from as little as $9.79 to $16.95, all I am sure, well worth the small cost.

Onyx 50 Specifications:

Exterior Material: 600 denier weather-resistant ballistic nylon

Interior Materials: Velveteen and EPE foam

Closures: Self-healing, weather-resistant zippers with positive grip pulls

Carry Options: Double touch-fastener belt loop.
Two webbed eyelet loops for optional shoulder strap.

Exterior dimensions: 4.75 x 5.1 x 6.1"
12 x 13 x 15.5 cm

Interior dimensions: 4.5 x 3.9 x 5"
11.5 x 10 x 12.5 cm
Weight: Approx. 5 oz (144g)

Color: Black