This latest iteration is a 1 step forward, 2 steps back. The buckle is a one-hand clip which means practical jokers or thieves could easily unbuckle the strap from behind you. A thick zip tie will solve this in my case, as would some gaff or duct tape since most of us won't be unbuckling this very often, if at all. The other questionable pieces are the 2 moveable bumper locks. The previous version would unlock and slide easily in both directions, making one-hand adjustments quick and smooth. On this version, the spring-loaded clips require tension if you have a smaller camera, meaning two hands are needed to put each lock in place. This isn't a big deal but does slow you down in some situations. Other than that, the strap holds nicely in place and I like the new locking carabiner design - it feels like a tighter lock and the flanged lock/screw are a nice touch. Otherwise, love these straps and use them on both my cameras.

It does the job and has a minimalist design.

If it weren't for the fact that I feel this product is overpriced, I'd given it 5 stars. The strap, although having decent grip WILL move around your shoulder throughout the day unless you buy the separate BRAD strap. Which is where my gripe is. There are straps selling for a third of the price which don't seem that far off from this product that come with accessories such as a "BRAD-like" strap and extra tether. I don't feel the material used is much-if any- better than that of cheaper straps as well. My GSD actually tore through this strap in less than the time it took me to get juice from the fridge (Which I should know better than to leave anything Nylon or Plastic around him.) I ended up buying a more reasonably priced strap, but did transfer over the locking mechanisms from this strap which I felt were far superior. If you have the money to splurge, I say go for it. If you are on a budget, definitely look at other options.

This review is for the BlackRapid Breathe Cross Shot. After receiving this camera strap, I don't know what took me so long in researching alternative camera straps to replace the OEM camera strap. I researched several different sling style camera straps and decided to pull the trigger on this one based on the positive online reviews. After trying this strap out I wish that I would have attempted to replace my original strap years ago. My one and only complaint about this strap as well as most of the other sling style straps is that they don't come with a tether as a safeguard for if the screw in connector where to unscrew or break. For the price of these straps I don't understand why they don't include a inexpensive strap to secure the buckle attachment to the original strap mount on the camera. Rather than purchasing one I decided to create my own tether to secure the strap in way so that I can't possible unscrew and if it were to break the tether will catch the buckle of the strap. With my original camera strap I would often use it like a sling because it was more comfortable way to carry it when not in use. However when I was ready to shot I would have to lift it over my head, I would then wrap the strap around my hand a couple of times and start taking the pictures. It is much easier to use the BlackRapid Cross Shot as now I just simply lift the camera to my eye, take the picture(s) then let the camera rest back at my hip. I don't have to worry about wrapping the strap around my hand for security as this strap is already wrapped around my body and the camera isn't going anywhere.

How does this strap work and what are the features? To begin the rubber shoulder harness is very comfortable and slim, it stays in place very well with little slippage. I don't know how comfortable it would be with a sleeveless shirt. The strap itself is 1-1/2" and has a quick release buckle so you don't have to pull it over your head. The strap also has two different stoppers so that you can adjust the range of motion in which the camera will slide. The strap is adjustable, I'm around 5' 8" with a slim build so I needed to adjust the strap about as short as it would go. With this configuration I have to have the quick disconnect buckle on my back side so that the sling will work properly. This isn't an issue for as I am already using my old strap as a sling, the main difference with this one is that it is a one time process versus over and over again. The D-loop which screws into the bottom screw mount in the camera seems to be high quality and it contains a rubber bushing so to prevent from over tightening and loosening however I do believe that it could loosen on it's own eventually. It's definitely worth purchasing or setting up a tether as a safeguard for your camera.

Overall I really like the strap. It has a very pro feel to it and makes shooting a pleasure. The screw definitely loosens when walking around so checking it relatively often is probably a good idea. If hiking I would recommend using the leash as well. Also just a heads up, the Lockstar breaks very easily. When snapping it closed, make sure it is perfectly lined up with the TIGHTENED carabiner lock. Also use some caution when using the carabiner to tighten down the strap to the camera. BlackRapid provided excellent customer service on my new strap and sent me a replacement Lockstar.

Despite the quick release buckle being on your back (where someone other than you can release it), this sling is absolutely excellent for long days of walking. I used it for a day trip to Epcot and the Magic Kingdom and it was simply perfect at distributing the weight of the camera and telephoto lens. Made for a very comfortable day. I read other reviews about the quick release buckle and used a zip tie for added security. The safety tether included in the kit was also additional security and small enough to stay out of the way. I don't think it's totally needed since the FastenR snugs down very well. I found myself checking it every thirty minutes or so and it was was always firmly attached without any signs of loosening. The ConnectR carabiner and gate lock is high quality stuff. Shooting was remarkable and the strap never left my shoulder. Very impressive. I would like BlackRapid to consider removing the quick release buckle altogether but it doesn't affect the functionality of the sling whatsoever.