For years I have been using only a single P67 body for my work. I finally decided not to use a 35mm as a backup, although I still use my KX and Leicas on occasion. Being that the P67 does not have interchangable backs, having an extra body really comes in handy. The ability to have a different speed film readily available, has saved some shots that I would have otherwise missed. Also, when one body runs out of film, having another body at the ready is quite nice. The second body is also nice if the primary body should fail. The last advantage I've noticed is that I can have another lens already on the second body and when I am in a rush when a great shot is unfolding, I don't need to struggle with a lens change. This is very important when using the outer bay lenses, especially when using the extension tubes. There is nothing worse than being rushed while trying to attach tubes and outer bay lens to the P67. For me, the second body was a great addition; I guess that's why Pentax recommends it. SR

-- Steve Rasmussen (srasmuss@flash.net), August 09, 2000

Answers

Gene, with eight lenses and two bodies, shemping all that equipment around can be a problem. I never carry all of it around at the same time. I decide what I will need for my shooting and just leave the rest. Eight lenses seem to be about right for what I do, but what can I say, I'm an optics nut. SR

-- Steve Rasmussen (srasmuss@flash.net), August 15, 2000.

Steve, you state the obvious. I recently aquired a second mint p67 body for all of the reasons you state above. Now where to find the bucks to get a II body!!!

-- Gene Crumpler (nikonguy@worldnet.att.net), August 10, 2000.

How do you shlep all this equipment around? I'm still looking for a bag or case to haul it all around! My old MF bag won't hold it all. Is the pentax trunk case the answer?

-- Gene Crumpler (nikonguy@worldnet.att.net), August 10, 2000.

I'm surprised that no one has mentioned Polaroids. I have an old 6x7 with an NPC back to go along with two PII bodies. For years I have had shooters suggest that you have a backup...just in case of equipment failure. Even though I have never experienced this while shooting, it did happen while I was assisting. If all else fails you can rent a piece of gear if something goes down.

-- Tony Clark (tcphoto@earthlink.net), August 10, 2000.

Gene, I saw your winning bid on eBay for that 2nd body... I gather it is working out well for you?

After 20+ years, I just picked up my 2nd body, also on eBay. I was hoping to get a "67" model, but got the "6x7" the same as my original one. I figured there might be engineering improvements in the later one.. but I gota nice one anyway.

I too am finding the amount of luggable junk increasing. Maybe time for a Sherpa cart..

-- Bruce Gavin (doc@compudox.com), August 10, 2000.

Bruce;

The second body is beautiful, about a mint-. Very few signs of use. I got the waist level finder and have used it some. If it would stop raining here in NC on the weekends, I'd be using it more.

-- Gene Crumpler (nikonguy@worldnet.att.net), August 16, 2000.

Gene,

Congrats on the mint- 2nd body. I've traded a great deal of gear on eBay, and only got semi-burned on a Graflok back the seller didn't disclose accurately. I offed several Nikkor LF lenses on eBay at a very nice price, and used the funds for a couple Rodenstock LF, and a very tasty 75mm for the 6x7.

Last weekend, I got to put the 75mm to work at Lake Tahoe, and found it to be "just right" for several shots. Looking through the viewfinder, it just oozes sharpness... chromes come back this week. My 2nd body is cleaner than my original, and "just works." I put a new battery in it, and away it went. The original owner said it did not have spacing problems, so I should be happy with the results.

-- Bruce Gavin (doc@compudox.com), August 17, 2000.

Any Pro's and Con's on the Pentax Trunk Case?

-- Gene Crumpler (nikonguy@worldnet.att.net), August 22, 2000.

Well, here is my review of the trunk case. Built like a tank and heavy! Holds the gear very well and inspires confidence. I don't know if Pentax makes this case for the p67II. For extended hikes and travel I am now using a Hassie and a Contax G1. Sorry!

-- Gene Crumpler (nikonguy@worldnet.att.net), October 25, 2000.