Wow, the Chinese are really upping their packaging design. That of their new Alpha Camera Strap makes for fine gift wrapping; you find yourself loath to throw it out (but my wife will).

The K&F Concept Alpha Camera Strap appears to be everything you would want or need in a camera strap. The actual straps are, as the seller asserts, made from the same super strong nylon webbing as automobile seat belts, the presumption being that if it can keep you from going through the windshield, its not going to fray or be in any danger of tearing or breaking while hanging a camera from your neck. The part of the strap that hangs around the neck is wide and padded, and I found it to be comfortable. The anchoring links use a unique, double locking system for extra secure fastening; the clip won’t release form the side pushers unless you first push a release button. In other words, you have to hold down one button while pushing two others. And there is also the opposing force of gravity.

At its full length, a camera hangs to my hip and when the strap is adjusted to its minimum length, hangs at my waist. I would prefer that it could be shortened more than that, for those instances when you want to minimize camera bounce. The straps adjustment hardware is attractive K&F branded aluminum buckles, and there are leather patches on each side for accent; adjusting the strap length is quick and easy. I find the two different widths of the strap appealing visually. I’m not sure what the various connecting pieces are made from, it appears to be some sort of plastic or rubber; they are highlighted with robust orange stitching.

I found it to be somewhat of a struggle to get the looped nylon cords of the anchors attached to the camera ring. It requires bending and scrunching the mailable plastic connection between cord and clip to then get the clip looped through the cord. A slightly longer cord would resolve this and eliminate a frustrating chore.

Comparatively, I would say that the K&F Alpha Camera Strap is a good value. The only question I have is where to get more of the camera anchors? Many photographers have more than one camera, so extra anchors would be convenient for quickly and easily switching the strap from one camera to another. Or better yet, include an extra pair or at least make it an option at purchase. And what about a system wrist strap using the same anchors? No doubt K&F Concepts, a manufacturer committed to the photo/video industry, will follow up by addressing these questions. Or maybe spend less on the packaging and instead, include extra anchors.