Let’s Dive into Pelican 1690 Watertight Transport Large Cases with Wheels
The Pelican 1690 Watertight Transport Large Cases with Wheels is not just a container; it’s a vault on wheels. Manufactured by Pelican, this case promises to safeguard your valuable equipment from the harshest elements and the roughest handling. I’ve spent over a decade in the field, trusting my gear to various cases, and I’m eager to see if the Pelican 1690 lives up to the brand’s reputation.
I needed a reliable solution for transporting sensitive electronics and camera equipment for my documentary work. The need to protect items from water damage and impacts during air travel was a must. Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by its sheer size and robust construction.
Compared to my older SKB case and a couple of generic hard cases, the Pelican 1690 felt significantly more substantial. The others felt flimsy in comparison. My initial reaction was excitement; this felt like a serious piece of equipment designed for serious protection.
Real-World Testing: Putting Pelican 1690 Watertight Transport Large Cases with Wheels to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test for the Pelican 1690 was transporting camera gear to a documentary shoot in the Pacific Northwest. I subjected it to a commercial flight. The weather was predictably wet and rugged.
It handled the airport baggage handlers with ease, emerging with only minor scuffs. The watertight seal proved its worth during an unexpected downpour while loading gear into a boat. The case was intuitive to use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After six months of consistent use, including multiple flights and outdoor shoots, the Pelican 1690 continues to perform admirably. The polypropylene shell shows some cosmetic wear. The internal foam remains intact and protective.
Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe-down after each trip keeps it looking presentable. Compared to my previous cases, which showed signs of stress fractures and seal degradation, the Pelican 1690 feels like a long-term investment.
Breaking Down the Features of Pelican 1690 Watertight Transport Large Cases with Wheels
Specifications
The Pelican 1690 boasts interior dimensions of 30.13 x 25.13 x 15.36 inches, offering a substantial 191 liters of pack volume. This spacious interior allows you to accommodate large items or multiple smaller ones.
Constructed from polypropylene, the case offers a balance of impact resistance and lightweight maneuverability. The external dimensions are 33.43 x 28.4 x 17.65 inches.
The case features stainless steel ball-bearing polyurethane wheels and a telescoping handle. This makes transport through airports and job sites significantly easier.
Additional features include a Gore-Tex automatic pressure equalization valve, stainless steel padlock protectors, and an O-ring seal. These features ensure watertight, dustproof, and crushproof protection.
These specifications are critical because they dictate the level of protection and ease of transport you can expect. The ample interior space allows me to carry all my essential equipment in one container.
Performance & Functionality
The Pelican 1690 excels at its primary function: protecting valuable equipment. It has withstood rough handling during air travel. It has been exposed to harsh weather conditions with no compromise to the safety of the contents.
The case’s robust construction and watertight seal provide peace of mind in demanding environments. The only minor weakness is the weight when fully loaded. It can become cumbersome for a single person to manage in tight spaces.
The Pelican 1690 exceeds my expectations in terms of protection and reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Pelican 1690 features a straightforward, utilitarian design. The focus is on functionality rather than aesthetics. The rubberized top and side grips offer comfortable handling.
The telescoping handle extends and retracts smoothly. The large polyurethane wheels roll effortlessly across various surfaces. While there is a slight learning curve to customizing the foam inserts, the overall design is user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Pelican 1690 is built to last. The rugged polypropylene construction resists impacts and abrasions. The stainless steel hardware prevents corrosion.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The case’s durable construction suggests it will withstand years of use and abuse.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Pelican 1690 is available with several customization options. These include a lid organizer and customizable padded utility dividers. Pick ‘N’ Pluck foam is included for creating custom inserts.
The case is also compatible with TSA-Accepted PeliLocks for added security. While the case doesn’t directly interface with accessories from other brands, the spacious interior allows for accommodating aftermarket inserts and dividers.
Pros and Cons of Pelican 1690 Watertight Transport Large Cases with Wheels
Pros
- Unrivaled Protection: Watertight, crushproof, and dustproof design ensures the safety of your valuable equipment.
- Spacious Interior: Ample 191-liter capacity accommodates large or multiple items.
- Easy Transport: Telescoping handle and smooth-rolling wheels make maneuvering through airports and job sites a breeze.
- Durable Construction: Rugged polypropylene shell and stainless steel hardware withstand years of abuse.
- Customizable Interior: Pick ‘N’ Pluck foam allows for creating custom inserts to perfectly fit your gear.
Cons
- Significant Weight: The case can become quite heavy when fully loaded.
- High Cost: The initial investment is substantial compared to generic cases.
Who Should Buy Pelican 1690 Watertight Transport Large Cases with Wheels?
The Pelican 1690 is perfect for professionals who need to transport sensitive equipment in demanding environments. This includes photographers, videographers, sound engineers, and field researchers. Anyone who transports electronics or fragile instruments will appreciate the protection offered by the Pelican 1690.
Those on a tight budget or who only need to transport non-fragile items should skip this product.
A must-have accessory is additional Pick ‘N’ Pluck foam for creating custom inserts. TSA-approved locks are useful for air travel.
Conclusion on Pelican 1690 Watertight Transport Large Cases with Wheels
The Pelican 1690 Watertight Transport Large Cases with Wheels is an investment in the safety and longevity of your valuable equipment. Its robust construction, spacious interior, and thoughtful design make it an invaluable asset for professionals and enthusiasts alike. The price is justified by the peace of mind it provides.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Pelican 1690 to anyone seeking the ultimate protection for their gear. Don’t risk your valuable equipment with inferior cases; invest in the Pelican 1690 and travel with confidence.