Gaming Reviews
Gear Review: Pelican Cases
By Hector Cortez Dec 31, 2011, 2:17 GMT
Pelican cases are tough and can withstand just about anything.
Imagine the following scenario: You're on your way to a friend's house with your Xbox 360 for some serious gaming when suddenly your grip slips as you're heading up the stairs to your buddy's apartment and your console falls down the stairs, shattering in just enough places to become extinct. Now picture this same scenario, but instead of carrying your console in your unprotected hands, your Xbox 360 is safely inside a Pelican case. Your grip slips and the case hits the stairs, hard. The difference now being that instead of checking the Xbox 360 for damage, you check to see if you damaged the stairs with the built-like-a-tank Pelican case.
Sure, some might deem the use of Pelican cases as overkill—products that are best left for professionals who work in extreme work environments with extremely expensive equipment. And yes, this is one market that loves Pelican cases, but they aren't exclusive to such professions. What Pelican cases can offer the everyday consumer is piece of mind. If you're traveling somewhere with expensive home electronics, such as the above Xbox 360 example, there's something comforting about knowing that your console, controllers, and games will arrive unscathed.
Of course transporting gaming gear isn't the only thing you can use these tough cases for. Perhaps you're a photographer or filmmaker with expensive cameras and lenses, or maybe a pricey sound recorder and microphones. Whatever your profession or hobby, I'm sure there are aspects of it that are very important, maybe even priceless.
I had a chance to get my hands on four different Pelican cases, each with its own distinct characteristics—be it size or features. First up is the 1600 which features rubber over-molded handle, stainless steel hardware and padlock protectors and two-level Pick N Pluck with convoluted lid foam. It measures 21.43” x 16.50” x 7.87”. Pelican also offers the 1500 model which is the 1600's little brother, measuring in at 16.75” x 11.18” x 6.12”. An even smaller model (1170) measuring in at 10.54” x 6.04” x 3.16” is also available. This is perfect for small items such as a Nintendo 3DS, PlayStation Portable, or digital cameras. Lastly, and my favorite of the bunch, is the 1560 which measures 20.37” x 15.43” x 9.00” and comes with a retractable extension handle and strong polyurethane wheels with stainless steel bearings. These extra features make transporting the case much easier. The handle is strong and wide and can handle a large amount of weight.
All the cases feature Pelican's Pick N Pluck is a system of foam that can be modified to best fit your gear. You “pick” which piece of the foam to remove and you simply “pluck” it. This allows for a snug fit that will hold your gear in place. They also feature double safety locking latches with keys and an Automatic Pressure Equalization Valve to keep unwanted elements out of the case, while also ensuring you can easily open it at any altitude.
These Pelican cases are tough and can withstand just about anything. Hard knocks, drops, water, etc are no match for these. Putting your gear in a Pelican case will give you piece of mind, knowing that everything will arrive in one piece. Whether you're a gamer, a professional, a hobbyist, or just an everyday consumer, it's never a bad idea to have some sort of protection for your valued, pricey equipment. The above mentioned Pelican cases are highly recommended. For more information, visit http://www.pelican.com.
