Saeed, on your video of the rifle blowup tests (most interesting by the way) I see you used the GoPro Hero cameras.

I've read reviews of these cameras at B&H and other sites. Most are very positive, a concern I have is with battery life.

Some reviewers say 20 - 90 minutes is about how long a charge lasts, depending on what features are used. Of course an extra battery or two would be an option.

Similar cameras with good reviews are the Contour ROAM2 and the Sony HDR-AS15 HD.

Since you use the GoPro obviously you must like it. Specific questions: What are you thoughts on the pros/cons of the GoPro, and have you tried the Contour and Sony models?

Hope this isn't too much trouble, but I do value your experience. Your comments on the Canon XF305 helped convince me to buy an XF300, you didn't steer me wrong!

I'm posting this on the forum as there are some really knowledgeable people here, and their input is always appreciated.

Dave Anderson

Dave,

First of all forget the Sony.

It is a piece of junk compared with either the GoPro or Contour.

For some applications, the Contour might be better.

But, over all in quality and usability, the Hero3 is head and shoulders above everything else found today.

I have not measured how long the battery lasts. But, it lasts longer than on the Hero2.

We also purchased an external battery charger from Amazon. This helps you charge another battery as one is being used.

Actually, as we have several GoPro3s, we have several spare batteries.

My experience is with the original Contour.

I have not used the Contour ROAM2.

Hope this is of help.

Saeed, thanks for the information, it really is very useful in deciding which to purchase.

Kind of a specialized camera, but I can see for certain situations/locations the GoPro would work very well.

Thanks again and best regards. I liked your rifle blowup video, very interesting to see what happens when a case fails.