Let’s face it, drum gear, accessories and music instruments are not exactly cheap.
And you’ll definitely want the best protection for your gear when you need to transport them around, especially if you are touring by plane and have little control over how the air crew handles your baggage.
Pelican cases are one of the top companies that provide hard covered cases suitable for drummers and musicians.
The only issue?
Their price tag.
So…if you want the maximum protection at your budget, here are the:
Best Pelican Case Alternatives [Our top 10]
| Pelican Case Alternatives | Interior Dimension | Exterior Dimension | Weight | Pre-cut foam available? | Wheels | Pressure Release Valve | Waterproof |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| *Best Pelican Case Alternative Below $300*: Nanuk 960 Waterproof Hard Case  | 22" x 17 " x 12.9” (55.8 × 43 × 32.7 cm) | 25.4" x 20" x 14.5” (64.5 x 50.8 x 36.8 cm) | 19.2 lbs. (8.7 kg) |  | | | |
ProX VaultX XM-1101HW | 29" x 19" x 9" (73.6 x 48.2 x 22.8 cm) | 32" x 12" x 22" (81.2 x 30.4 x 55.8 cm) | 23 lbs. (11.66 kg) | | | | |
Seahorse SE1220 Equipment Case | 25.7" x 19.5" x 13.1" (65.3 x 49.5 x 33.3 cm) | 27.9" x 22.3" x 15.1" (70.9 x 56.6 x 38.4 cm) | 27.05 lbs. (12.27 kg) with foam 25.7 lbs. (11.66 kg) without foam | | | | |
Seahorse SE1530 Long Case | 44.5” x 14.3” x 6.22” (113 x 36.3 x 15.8cm) | 46.6” x 16.7” x 6.8” (118.3 x 42.4 x 17.3cm) | 19.6 lbs. (8.89 kg) 17.2 lbs. (7.81 kg) without foam | | | | |
MEIJIA Portable hard case | 28.8” x 17” x 9.3” (73 × 43 × 23.6 cm) | 31.6” x 19.3” x 11” (80 x 49 x 27.9 cm) | 26 lbs. (11.79 kg) | | |  | |
| *Best Pelican Case Alternative Below $200*: Seahorse 920 Case  | 22.1" x 13.5" x 8.5" (56 x 34.2 x 21.5 cm) | 24" x 16" x 10.1" (60.9 x 40.6 x 25.6 cm) | 12.5 lbs (5.66kg) (14.3lbs with foam) | | | | |
Amazon Basics Large Case | 20.5" x 10.8" x 7.5" (52 x 27.4 x 19cm) | 21.9" x 13.7" x 9.8" (55.6 x 34.7x 24.8 cm) | 16 lbs (7 kg) | | | | |
Royal Case Condition 1 Case #839 | 21.9" x 17" x 8.4" (55.7 x 43.1 x 21.4 cm) | 24.5" x 19.5" x 8.4" (62.2 x 49.5 x 21.4 cm) | 13 lbs (5.9 kg) | | | | |
| *Best Pelican Case Alternative Below $100*: Nanuk 910 Waterproof hard case  | 9.2" x 4.1" (33.6 x 23.4 x 10.4 cm) | 14.3" x 11.1" x 4.7" (36.3 x 28.2 x 12 cm) | 3 lbs (1.4 kg) | | | | |
Monoprice Hard Case  | 17.64" x 13.58" x 4.76" (44.8 x 34.5 x 12.1 cm) | 18.86" x 16.34" x 5.91" (47.9 x 41.5 x 15 cm) | 9.6 lbs (4.34 kg) | | | | |
We’ve done a quick review of each of the pelican case alternatives listed in the table above.
I focused on Pelican case alternatives for drummers who need to pack their cymbals, drum accessories and maybe a snare. Hard drum or tom cases will be covered in another article!
- What is a Pelican Case?
- Alternatives for Pelican Case
- Best Pelican Case Alternative Below $300
- Best Pelican Case Alternative Below $200
- Best Pelican Case Alternative Below $100
- Nanuk 910[Our Pick]
- Monoprice Hard Case
- Why Drummers Need Pelican Case?
- What to look out for in a Pelican Case Alternative?
- The 2 original Pelican Case that most drummers and musicians will use
- What is IP67?
What is a Pelican Case?
Pelican is a company that makes high quality, durable hardware case.
In recent years, they have also expanded their offerings to include waterproof iphone shells, backpacks and more. Reliable hardware cases remain their core product.
They are trusted by users across industries like the military, emergency medical services (EMS), aerospace and more.
On top of that, they have also gained a strong following among hobbyists in the drones, music and photography niches.
What makes a Pelican Case so sought after?
Their unique selling point is that their boxes are waterproof, shockproof and have high impact resistance all while being light weight.
Users can customize their own boxes to suit their needs with Pelican’s Pick and Plug foam insert system.
Basically, you choose how you want to shape your foam protection for maximum protection of your equipment.
And oh, all their cases comes with a lifetime warranty too.
Sounds tough to beat?
Yes, it is.
Pelican Case Alternatives
As drummers, we know the fear of packing our drum kits for travel.
It’s nerve wreaking traveling with your dismantled drum kits, packed into boxes.
Will my drum kit be thrown and manhandled during the transport?
Did I tug enough cloth to protect my drum heads?
We researched and studied over 77+ hardware cases; from Seahorse cases to OEM hardware cases to pick out the top 10 pelican case alternatives in this review.
I’ve arranged these Pelican Case Alternatives into various categories, by budget (which is a proxy for size):
Best Pelican Case Alternative Below $300
What if you could save $100++ and still get trustworthy and reliable waterproof hard cases that will protect your gear?
This section explores pelican case alternatives that give you maximal protection for your budget:
Nanuk 960 Waterproof Hard Case
Nanuk is a veteran in the space – it has been serving professionals for over 20 years and have been constantly innovating in the scene ever since. Nanuk designs and builds their cases in Canada. Their cases are covered by a limited lifetime warranty as well, you can find all the details here.
Here’s the specifications of the NANUK 960 Waterproof IP67 hard case:
- Interior: 22″ x 17 ” x 12.9” (55.8 × 43 × 32.7 cm)
- Exterior: 25.4″ x 20″ x 14.5” (64.5 x 50.8 x 36.8 cm)
- Empty Weight: 19.2 lbs. (8.7 kg)
- Waterproof (IP67 rated)
- Dustproof
- Shockproof
- Fitted with wheels and comes with a quick release retractable handle for easy handling
- Comes with pressure valves to protect your drum gear during flights
- Features patented Powerclaw latches that ensure your box stays closed during transport
- Comes with foam insert which you can customize for your equipment
The Nanuk 960 Waterproof hard case took the top spot on my list for several reasons.
Firstly, it comes with limited lifetime warranty which can cover repair or replacement should a defect be determined to be present. Do note that Nanuk’s lifetime warranty may not cover accidental or negligent damage (more on this below).
Secondly, it is affordable. At under $300 (and even cheaper than the ProX), the Nanuk 960 is a steal.
Thirdly, it is built for air travel. The Nanuk 960 is of a good size for travelling drummers who need to transport fragile drum accessories. Several users have mentioned that they were allowed to carry it onto airlines, but do check with your carrier if you intent to do so!
Lastly, it is well built and feels sturdy without being too heavy. Although this might not be a major concern for most drummers, you’ll really appreciate the difference of having a lighter hard case if you’re constantly on the move.
That said, there is no perfect product out there. In the Nanuk 960’s case, some users have mentioned that the plastic along its lid can cheap off easily due to the design. The external damage however doesn’t seem to affect the function of the 960 nor its pressure valves.
The Nanuk 960 case is a popular pelican case alternative that comes with an affordable price tag. If you’re considering to protect your drum accessories but are on a tight budget, it might be right up your alley.
Check out details on the Nanuk 960 waterproof hardcase on Amazon here
ProX VaultX large case (XM-1101HW)
ProX is a manufacturer of flight cases since 1984! Since then, they have become a formidable competitor of Pelican and their hard cover cases are equally sought after. They are trusted by professionals in the entertainment industry and music production industry and have evolved with the times.
The VaultX series are made from tough polypropylene copolymer which ProX claims is “virtually indestructible”.
The ProX VaultX XM-1101 case has the following specifications:
- Interior Dimensions: 29″ x 19″ x 9″ (73.6 x 48.2 x 22.8 cm)
- Exterior Dimensions: 32″ x 12″ x 22″ (81.2 x 30.4 x 55.8 cm)
- Empty Weight: 23 lbs. (11.66 kg)
- Comes with wheels and retractable handle for easy portability and transport
- Watertight (IP67 rated, independent test)
- Airtight
- Crash Resistant
- Contains automatic air pressure release valves for air travel
- Fitted with Pluck-N-Pak foam
- Comes with Limited Lifetime Warranty
The ProX VaultX case made this list for three key reasons:
Firstly, ProX offers limited lifetime warranty on its Cases. For its price tag, this is an obvious advantage. You can read more about the limited lifetime warranty on their website. I’ve quoted the terms here:
ProX Cables & ProX Cases come with limited lifetime warranty from date of purchase of the product, provided that such product was purchased in the U.S. from an authorized ProX dealer and a properly dated invoice or sales receipt are presented at the time of requesting warranty service. This warranty does not apply to sales outside the United States. International customers must return the unit to the dealer that the unit was purchased from for warranty service.
From ProX’s website
Secondly, it offers a good size which drummers will find useful. The Pluck-N-Pak foam should also come in handy when you’re customising your own storage space.
Finally, the XM-1101HW offers good durability for a manageable weight like the Nanuk 960.
Check out details on the ProX VaultX XM-1101HW on Amazon here
Seahorse SE1220 Equipment Case
Seahorse is another strong competitor of Pelican offering hard cover cases that are highly sought after. They have been around since 2001 and serve clients in Fortune 500 companies.
Seahorse cases are proudly made in America and also come with lifetime guarantee as well.
The Seahorse SE1220 case has the following specifications:
- Interior Dimensions: 25.7″ x 19.5″ x 13.1″ (65.3 x 49.5 x 33.3 cm)
- Exterior Dimensions: 27.9″ x 22.3″ x 15.1″ (70.9 x 56.6 x 38.4 cm)
- Weight with Foam : 27.05 lbs. (12.27 kg)
- Empty Weight: 25.7 lbs. (11.66 kg)
- Comes with wheels for easy portability
- Waterproof
- Airtight
- Rustproof
- Crash Resistant
- Comes fitted with pre-cut, customizable foam
- Comes with lifetime warranty
Take note that this case does not come with a pressure release valve which means the pressure might build up inside the sealed case during air travel.
A user mentioned that all you’d need to do is to undo the latches, give it a minute and you’d be able to open the case with ease.
For it’s price and size, I think that the Seahorse SE1220 is a steal.
You could fit a couple of cymbals in there, or pack your drum module, drum pad or synthesizer in along with trigger pad or microphone.
Check out full details of the Seahorse SE1220 on Amazon here
Seahorse offers 2 versions of the SE1220; with or without customizable foam. If you’re looking to protect gear or equipment that is sensitive to shock or extreme vibration, get the version with the foam. You can cut it to fit your gear. Alternatively, you can save some moolah by using some egg crate foam to hold your equipment instead.
If you are looking to transport cymbal stands, snare stands or the like, the following is more appropriate for you:
Seahorse SE1530 Long Equipment Case
The Seahorse SE1530 case has the following specifications:
- Interior: 44.5” x 14.3” x 6.22” (113 x 36.3 x 15.8cm)
- Exterior: 46.6” x 16.7” x 6.8” (118.3 x 42.4 x 17.3cm)
- Weight with Foam : 19.6 lbs. (8.89 kg)
- Empty Weight: 17.2 lbs. (7.81 kg)
- Waterproof
- 2 x In-Built Metal Locks
- Pressure Release Valve
- Comes fitted with pre-cut, customizable foam
- Comes with wheels for portability
- Comes with lifetime warranty
This variation of the Seahorse SE1530 was created for storing arms, hence it comes with built-in metal locks.
I find the locks very handy as a deterrence against curious inspectors or baggage handlers. Drum modules, instruments or stands usually don’t warrant a need for our cases to be opened.
Also, it comes with a pressure release valve as well.
This means that if you decide to pack your drum modules in as well you can be sure that they will not be subdued to increased pressure within the case.
With it’s durability and size, the Seahorse SE1530’s weight remains manageable as well.
Plus it is almost 70% cheaper than a Pelican long case.
Remember, Seahorse cases also come with a lifetime guarantee so you are protected if your case is damage due to overuse or mistreatment during transport.
You can read what other users of the Seahorse SE1530 say here and here.
Thanks for their durability and value for price, Seahorse has been gaining popularity in the music scene as a strong Pelican case alternative in recent years. They offer a good range of case sizes to suit different needs. If you’re looking for a smaller, niftier Seahorse hardcase, check here.
MEIJIA Portable hard case
As you can probably infer from its name, this MEIJIA hard case is a rare Chinese product with a good amount of positive reviews, you can see what real users say about it here. MEIJIA has been trusted across many industries from engineers to defence and electronic equipment.
The MEIJIA Portable hardcase is watertight, comes with wheels for easily transportation and includes a customisable foam insert which allows us to fit our drum accessories snuggly during travel. And it is highly affordable for its specs.
They do not provide lifetime guarantee.
Here’re the specifications of the MEIJIA Portable hard case:
- Interior: 28.8” x 17” x 9.3” (73 × 43 × 23.6 cm)
- Exterior: 31.6” x 19.3” x 11” (80 x 49 x 27.9 cm)
- Weight: 26 lbs. (11.79 kg)
- Has rolling wheels and retractable handle for easy transportation and handling
- Watertight to protect your equipment from rain
- Comes with pressure valves to protect your drum gear during flights
- Comes with foam insert which you can customize for your equipment
At the point of update, the MEIJIA hard case has a 4+ star rating with over 66% voting 4 or more stars.
I dug through the negative reviews and found that a common complain among buyers is the lack of consistency in quality control, with the latches being the weakest link. This is worrying as it could mean that your hard case could burst open during transportation. You might want to consider getting some luggage straps if you’re considering the MEIJIA hard case.
Another common issues faced is the difficulty of opening the latches as they are too tight, or tend to get in the way even when unlatched. However, this isn’t that big of an issue.
A final issue to note is that this hard case is only watertight and not waterproof. If you are certain that your gear will not be exposed to extreme conditions, this affordable MEIJIA case might be a cost effective option musicians living on a shoestring.
To give you a better idea of the quality of MEIJIA hard cases, here’s a quick video:
Best Pelican Case Alternative Below $200
You just want a hard case with customizable foam inserts to carry your gear around without paying for all the extra features that you don’t need?
The following are suitable for you.
Warning: You get what you pay.
Although the following do come with features like pressure release valves, customizable foam insert and more, we did notice that the quality may not be consistent.
If you are planning to use the hard case just to transport your equipment within town, they will do just fine. But if you are planning to travel by plane, you might want to take extra precautions. You’ll also notice these hardcases tend to be smaller.
Seahorse 920 Case
Proudly made in the USA, the Seahorse SE920 case comes with a lifetime guarantee against defects in materials and craftmanship. It has the following specifications:
- Interior: 22.1″ x 13.5″ x 8.5″ (56 x 34.2 x 21.5 cm)
- Exterior: 24″ x 16″ x 10.1″ (60.9 x 40.6 x 25.6 cm)
- Empty Weight: 12.5 lbs (5.66kg) (14.3lbs with foam)
- Waterproof (IP67)
- Able to withstand water immersion (15cm to 1m) for 30 min
- Dustproof
- Fitted with wheels and a retractable handle for easy handling
- Comes fitted with pre-scored customizable foam
- Continuous pressure equalization system maintains pressure during air travel
- Comes with lifetime warranty
- Comes in various color options too
Many users of the Seahorse 920 agree that it is a great Pelican case alternative, especially if you’re using something similar to the A1510. It’s also encouraging to note that it had maintained an average of 5 stars after receiving 216+ ratings.
A fuss-free waterproof hard case, the Seahorse SE920 has received great ratings and continues to gain fans, as seen from the raving reviews. It comes with key features that makes its travel friendly too:
Its size is suitable to be carried onto certain airplanes (do check with your airline carrier to be sure) and if you’re checking it in, the SE920 comes with lock holes that would fit with TSA standard padlocks.
That said, there was a slightly negative review which suggest that the wheels are not as durable. Although this is a cause of concern, it seems that the lifetime warranty can cover the wheel. Another area of concern is regarding the foam provided – it is not a dense as many would like, and some users have observed that their foam do not hold the shape nor protect their fragile items well. You might want to consider buying the empty case at a lower price and get better protective foam if you plan to transport fragile items.
Check out the details on the Seahorse 920 on Amazon here
Amazon Basics Large Case
If you are limited by the size of your budget but still want something that provides reliable protection for your gear, this is it.
Here’s a look at the specifications of the Amazon Basics large hard case:
- Interior: 20.5″ x 10.8″ x 7.5″ (52 x 27.4 x 19cm)
- External: 21.9″ x 13.7″ x 9.8″ (55.6 x 34.7x 24.8 cm)
- Weight: 16 lbs (7 kg)
- Waterproof (IP67 rated – independent test)
- Airtight
- Comes with wheels and retractable handles for easy handling
- Comes fitted with pre-cut, customizable foam
- Covered by Amazon Basics 1 year limited warranty
I tend to be skeptical about cheap hard cases because the items we want to protect tend to cost quite a bit and it doesn’t make sense to save pennies on the hard cases and take the risk.
Although the Amazon Basics range has its hits and misses, I must say that Amazon does a pretty good job with its OEM products and this Amazon Basics hard case is one such example. With over 1,837+ ratings, it has scored an average of 4.5 stars and this alone was encouraging enough for me to consider this product for this list.
For its price, the large hard case provides a good size while allowing it to meet the carry-on regulations for most U.S. domestic airlines. (do double check with your airline just to be sure!) However, do note that it doesn’t come with pressure valves so you’ll be taking a risk with pressure sensitive equipment.
That said, I would prefer to top up about $8 for the Seahorse SE920 for its limited lifetime warranty and the greater trust in the Seahorse brand.
Learn more about the Amazon Basics Large Case now.
Royal Case Condition 1 Case #839
This is a worthy mention with a good amount of positive reviews from other users as well. Here’s a look at the specifications of the Condition 1 Case #829:
- Interior: 21.9″ x 17″ x 8.4″ (55.7 x 43.1 x 21.4 cm)
- External: 24.5″ x 19.5″ x 8.4″ (62.2 x 49.5 x 21.4 cm)
- Weight: 13 lbs (5.9 kg)
- Watertight, Airtight
- Comes with pressure release valve
- Comes fitted with pre-cut, customizable foam
- Comes in various color options too
It remains lightweight while providing the protection your gear would need during transport.
The size is slightly larger than the standard carry on requirements though and it doesn’t come with wheels so you’ll need to manage the amount of gear you pack into the case.
Some users have mentioned that the pre-cut foam provided is not stiff enough, you might need to consider replacing those.
With that said, given it’s price point you’re getting a great deal for a functional hard case that will protect your gear during transportation.
Learn more about the Condition 1 case on Amazon now.
IBEX Case
IBEX cases produce cases in various dimensions to cater to a larger group of audience which means that you’d probably be able to find a case for your needs.
I think this case is one that musicians and drummers will find practical:
- Interior: 19.1 x 14.0 x 7.3″ (48.5 x 35.5 x 18.5 cm)
- Exterior: 20 x 16.3 x 7.8″ (50.8 x 41.4 x 19.8 cm)
- Weight: 10.05 lbs (4.56 kg)
- Watertight
- Dustproof
- Temperature resistant from -20°C to 80°C (-4°F to 176°F)
- Comes with pressure release valve
- Comes fitted with pre-cut, customizable foam
This IBEX protective case is another great option for musicians and drummers who want to protect their drum modules, synthesizers and even cymbals.
The case is sturdy and can hold its own even when it is stacked beneath larger bags. Plus, it also meets the carry on requirement for airlines so that you can bring your equipment with you while you travel.
However, given its small size, it may only be able to store your mics.
Check out the details on the IBEX hard case on Amazon here
Best Pelican Case Alternative Below $100
Most drummers wouldn’t really require hard cases under this category due to the small sizes. That said, if you’re looking for trustworthy and reliable Pelican Case alternatives that provide safe level of protection for a fraction of the cost.
Nanuk 910 Waterproof hard case *Our Pick*
If you’re looking to carry small fragile equipment like mics, drum machines, synthesizers or maybe a priceless metronome (who knows), the Nanuk 910 is a portable briefcase like hard case that could be for you. Here’re its specifications:
- Internal: 13.2″ x 9.2″ x 4.1″ (33.6 x 23.4 x 10.4 cm)
- External: 14.3″ x 11.1″ x 4.7″ (36.3 x 28.2 x 12 cm)
- Weight: 3 lbs (1.4 kg)
- Waterproof (IP67 rated)
- Dustproof
- Shockproof
- Withstands temperatures from -20 to 140 F
- Comes with pressure equalizer valve
- Comes fitted with customizable foam insert
- Covered by Nanuk’s lifetime warranty
Made in Canada, Nanuk hard cases are known for their quality. That isn’t just a marketing slogan, at least 88% of the 1,537 users of the Nanuk 910 on Amazon agree – it managed to average a 5-star rating despite accumulating that many reviews! The 910 series has been popular among photographers, musicians and even emergency personnel and preppers.
With the customisable foam design, you can protect your equipment against a bumpy journey. To top it off, the NK-7 reesin used to make Nanuk cases are highly durable.
You can read what other users of the Nanuk 910 say about their hard cases.
Monoprice Hard Case
The Monoprice hard cases do not come with a lifetime guarantee but they do provide reliable protection.
I don’t know how they managed to pack so much features for such a low price point, I mean just take a look at the specifications of the Monoprice hard case:
- Internal: 17.64″ x 13.58″ x 4.76″ (44.8 x 34.5 x 12.1 cm)
- External: 18.86″ x 16.34″ x 5.91″ (47.9 x 41.5 x 15 cm)
- Weight: 9.6 lbs (4.34 kg)
- Comes with pressure release valve
- Waterproof up to 1 meter depth for 30 minutes
- Seal design provides IP67 level protection
- Comes fitted with pre-cut, customizable foam
You’d also notice that it is lightweight despite the protection it offers.
Although it’s made in China, you are getting pretty good quality, practical size and basically a bang for your buck.
It’s not just me raving about it, many photographers, audiophiles and musicians have also recommended the Monoprice hard case as a great low budget option for their gear.
You can read what other users of the Monoprice hard case say about their hard cases.
Why drummers might need a Pelican Case?
For the touring drummer or the musician who travels to record music, the Pelican Case is a hardy case that will protect your sensitive and fragile equipment like your microphones, drum modules, mixers, recording devices, stands, cymbals, synthesizers, etc.
Pelican makes hard cases in various sizes that allows for you to plan what and how to pack.
What to look for in a Pelican Case Alternative?
These are the criteria we used to determine the best Pelican Case alternatives.
- Customizable foam insert
This is a key feature that allows users to customize the spaces in their pelican case or hardware case to hug their equipment snugly for maximum protection.
You wouldn’t want your equipment to be moving around freely in the hardware case as it gets thrown around because that would defeat the purpose of getting the hardcase protective box in the first place.
- Size
Having a hard case that is too small or too big will not be practical, hence size is an important factor to consider.
Most companies manufacture hard cases in a range of dimensions, we used the 2 most practical and useful Pelican cases (listed in the next section) for musicians and drummers as comparison.
- Lightweight
You’ll want a lightweight case so that it is easier to transport even after you have packed your equipment in.
- Waterproof
This is optional unless you are worried your case will come in contact with a huge amount of water.
- Durability
The purpose of a pelican case or a hardware case is to protect your gear, hence durability is a key factor that the box must have.
- Shockproof
Let’s face the truth.
Check in baggage or luggage will be thrown around and mishandled, no matter what the airline industry say.
If you have bulky gear that you have no choice but to check-in, you’ll want the baggage to be shockproof.
Because if the hardware case breaks from the shock, then it defeats the purpose of purchasing the hardware case too.
Durability and Shockproof ability are difficult to gauge from the product specifications, we refer to user reviews to crowd-source for the reliability of the Pelican Case alternatives.
2 Pelican Case Models that Musicians Often Use
Pelican manufactures a wide range of hard cases, I based my comparison on the following models because I felt that they are the most appropriate and practical models for musicians and drummers alike.
The Original Pelican Drum Hardware Case (1740)
Here are the specifications of the 1740 Pelican Case:
- Interior: 40.98″ x 12.92″ x 12.13″ (104.1 x 32.8 x 30.8 cm)
- Exterior: 44.16″ x 16.09″ x 14.00″ (112.2 x 40.9 x 35.6 cm)
- Weight with foam: 27 lbs (12.2 kg)
- Empty Weight: 22 lbs (10 kg)
- Waterproof
- 6 piece foam set
Holds up to 6 cymbal stands, a snare stand and a hi-hat stand, the Pelican 1740 Protector Long Case was originally marketed to drummers who tour or have to travel with their equipment.
The original case is lightweight at just 22 lbs and is completely waterproof. Pelican tests their products to ensure that all their cases meet the claims they make.
The best part about owning a pelican case is that you get to own a hardware case for life. Pelican is so confident about the quality of their products that they offer lifetime guarantee on their hardware cases.
However, unless you are touring overseas, you might not need a hand carry protector case with wheels to transport your gear. Instead, you might be using a full sized flight case.
Here’s a size reference of the Pelican 1740, you can tell how deep the case is in the video:
Hence the 1174 Pelican Long Protector Case might not be the best option for you.
Instead, you might want to look at smaller Pelican cases like:
Pelican Protector Transport Case (1690)
If you are transporting your cymbals, this might be the hard covered case that you should consider purchasing.
The 1690 Pelican Protector Transport Case has an area of 30.13″ by 25.12″, you can probably fit your cymbals and hi-hat in. The 1690 has a depth of 15.36″, you might need to check if there will be enough space.
It comes with 3 levels of Pelican’s signature Pick N Pluck foam which gives you the freedom to pack your cymbals and hi-hats accordingly.
With such quality, comes a larger price tag which new touring drummers don’t usually want to stomach.
What is IP67?
The IP code is the ‘international protection marking‘ aka ‘Ingress Protection Marking’ code, as regulated by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).
It is an international standard that tells us how well a product can protect against intruding bodies.
A product with IP67 rating is:
- Dust tight: Provides complete protection against dust, in a vacuum. This is tested for at least 8 hours.
- Can be immersed in water, up to 1m depth for at least 30 minutes. There should be no entry of water in harmful quantity.
However, not being ‘rated’ IP67 does not mean that the product does not meet the requirements. It just means that the company has not tested the product according to the standards set up the IEC.
Conclusion
I hope our review and break down of the Pelican case alternatives above have given you better options to consider according to your needs and budget.
Feel free to leave a comment below if there’s anything we’d miss or if you don’t agree with our review 🙂
