Shimoda Core Unit - Mirrorless - XL30 RST (520-453) Mirrorless (ML) XL30 RST

Shimoda Core Unit Mirrorless XL30 RST, when your Action X30 suddenly grows up

Sometimes everything just fits. That’s exactly what happens when you combine your Shimoda Action X30 with the Shimoda Core Unit, Mirrorless, XL30 RST. All of a sudden, an already clever camera backpack becomes a well‑thought‑out, full-fledged transport system for large telephoto zooms and mirrorless setups that makes sensible use of the entire space from top to bottom, without any wasted room.

Perfect fit for the Shimoda Action X30, fully utilized interior volume

This Core Unit is tailored precisely to the Shimoda Action X30. It fills the backpack from the base up to just below the roll-top, so you really make use of the full height of the interior. No half-empty zones, no improvised in-between solutions.

The construction is designed so that lenses up to 46 cm in length fit inside comfortably, even when they’re already mounted on a camera. This is especially valuable with long focal lengths, because you don’t have to keep screwing things on and off when you need to move quickly.

Consistently designed for large telephoto zooms, superzooms up to 46 cm in length

The Shimoda Core Unit Mirrorless XL30 RST is made for serious telephoto fans. It accommodates long superzooms up to 46 cm in length and provides them with a stable, padded seat. These include, for example:

• Sony 200–600mm f/5.6–6.3 G OSS FE [SEL200600G] (2019)
• Nikon Z 180–600mm f/5.6–6.3 VR NIKKOR (2023)
• Canon RF 200–800mm f/6.3–9.0 IS USM (2023)
• OM System 150–600mm f/5–6.3 M.ZUIKO Digital ED IS
• Fuji 150–600mm f/5.6–8 R LM OIS WR XF

These lenses don’t just fit in on their own, but also when mounted on a camera body. That’s a real advantage out in the field, because you can simply grab your telephoto and start shooting instead of mounting it first. The internal layout can be adjusted so that the setup sits securely while still remaining quickly accessible.

RST: rear, side and top access, three ways to your camera

The abbreviation RST stands for rear, side and top access. And that’s exactly what you get here in a coherent combination that integrates seamlessly with the functions of the Shimoda Action X30.

From the rear you get the classic, full-surface access to the entire camera system. When you set the backpack down and open it, all your gear is laid out neatly in front of you: bodies, telezooms, smaller lenses, accessories. Ideal for reconfiguring or whenever you want to work in peace.

On the side, the Core Unit integrates into the side access of the Action X30. You open the side access and reach your camera and main lens directly, without having to completely remove or set down the backpack. This is incredibly practical on hikes, assignments or trips, because you can simply reach over your shoulder.

Additionally, the XL30 RST allows access from above. Via the zipper at the lower end of the expandable roll-top, you can reach the camera or telephoto lens directly from above without exposing the entire system. For example, you can position your large superzoom at the top and pull it out in a flash when an opportunity arises that won’t come again.

Optimized for mirrorless and DSLR cameras without grip

This mirrorless version of the Core Unit is specifically designed for mirrorless cameras and DSLR models without a battery grip. It accommodates cameras up to a height of about 12 cm, which is perfect for most modern mirrorless systems and more compact DSLRs.

The reduced depth of the Core Unit not only creates a slimmer profile in the backpack, it also helps you stay within typical international carry-on regulations. This is a key factor especially when flying, because you want to keep your entire camera kit in your cabin luggage and not in the hold.

Note on compatibility, not for the Shimoda Explore series

Important, so there are no nasty surprises later: The RST Core Units are not compatible with backpacks from the Shimoda Explore series. They are specifically matched to the Action X30 and its access and interior concept. So if you’re using an Explore, this particular Core Unit will not fit due to its design.

Light, water-repellent protective cover, storage and packing cube in one

The Core Unit comes with a separate, lightweight protective cover. Its primary purpose is to protect the padded unit when your gear is not inside the backpack. At home, in the studio or on a shelf, it reliably keeps dust and moisture away so that your camera equipment stays clean and ready for use.

At the same time, this cover can be used as a packing cube. You can fill it with clothing or other everyday items and stow it in your backpack or carry-on. This is especially practical if you’re transporting your Core Unit empty or want to adjust your packing volume flexibly. That way, a simple cover becomes a versatile organization tool.

EVA protective shells and dividers, slim build, high protection

The walls and dividers of the Shimoda Core Unit Mirrorless XL30 RST are made from EVA material. Compared to the cheaper PE foams often used, EVA offers significantly better protection against impacts and pressure. At the same time, this material allows more precise control over density and quality, so padding can be reinforced exactly where it’s needed.

A pleasant side effect: the walls can be made thinner without sacrificing protection. This leaves more usable interior volume for your camera, telephoto lenses and accessories. You benefit from a robust, protective structure without unnecessarily bulking up the interior.

External and internal dimensions so you can plan precisely

To help you plan your gear precisely, here are the relevant dimensions of the Shimoda Core Unit, Mirrorless, XL30 RST:

• Maximum lens length: up to 46 cm
• Weight: about 0.64 kg
• External dimensions: approx. 28 cm width x 48 cm height x 13 cm depth
• Internal dimensions: approx. 26 cm width x 46 cm height x 12 cm depth

These dimensions are chosen so that they optimally fill the interior of the Shimoda Action X30 while still leaving enough room for flexible layouts. This allows you to arrange your mirrorless camera, several lenses including long superzooms, and accessories such as converters, filters or small audio setups in a sensible way.

Who this Core Unit is particularly interesting for

If you work with long focal lengths such as the Sony 200–600mm f/5.6–6.3 G OSS FE, the Nikon Z 180–600mm f/5.6–6.3 VR NIKKOR, the Canon RF 200–800mm f/6.3–9.0 IS USM, the OM System 150–600mm f/5–6.3 M.ZUIKO Digital ED IS or the Fuji 150–600mm f/5.6–8 R LM OIS WR XF, this Core Unit really plays to its strengths. It is built to transport these glass giants safely, without them shifting around in the backpack or having to lie awkwardly across it.

At the same time, it’s aimed at anyone who wants to use their Shimoda Action X30 as a full-featured, modular camera backpack with an interior that doesn’t feel improvised, but so well thought out that you can focus on shooting while you’re out and about instead of constantly repacking.