The Pelican Vault V200 Medium Case with Lid Foam and Dividers Made a Bold First Impression
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen my fair share of protective cases. But the Pelican Vault V200 Medium Case with Lid Foam and Dividers immediately caught my eye with its promise of rugged protection and customizable interior. This isn’t just another box; it’s a secure fortress for your valuable equipment, manufactured by Pelican, a name synonymous with durability.
I needed a reliable case to protect my sensitive camera equipment during unpredictable backcountry expeditions. My old soft case offered minimal protection against impacts and the elements, leaving me constantly worried about damage. The Pelican Vault V200 seemed like the perfect solution to provide the peace of mind I craved.
Unboxing the V200 was a satisfying experience. The case felt incredibly solid, with a reassuring weight that spoke to its robust construction. The high-impact polymer felt virtually indestructible, and the easy-open latches snapped shut with a confident click.
Compared to other medium-sized protective cases I’ve used from brands like Plano and Seahorse, the Pelican Vault V200 stood out with its superior build quality and customizable dividers. While the other cases felt flimsy and offered limited internal organization, the V200 felt like a professional-grade solution. I was particularly drawn to the touch-fastening dividers, which promised a tailored fit for my specific gear.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. The Pelican Vault V200 exceeded my expectations with its ruggedness, thoughtful design, and impressive attention to detail. I was genuinely excited to put it to the test and see how it performed in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Pelican Vault V200 Medium Case with Lid Foam and Dividers to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test run with the Pelican Vault V200 was a week-long backpacking trip through the rugged terrain of the Appalachian Trail. I used the case to protect my DSLR camera, lenses, and portable recorder from the elements and potential impacts. The V200 was strapped to the outside of my pack, enduring rain, mud, and accidental bumps against rocks and trees.
The Pelican Vault V200 performed exceptionally well in these demanding conditions. Despite being exposed to constant moisture, the weather-resistant seal kept my equipment completely dry. The high-impact polymer shrugged off the bumps and scrapes, showing no signs of damage.
Using the case was incredibly straightforward. The easy-open, push-button latches allowed for quick access to my gear, even with gloved hands. I did spend some time initially configuring the dividers to fit my specific equipment, but once set, the system worked perfectly.
The only minor issue I encountered was the handle’s comfort during extended carries. While the heavy-duty ergonomic handle is undoubtedly robust, it felt a little stiff after a few hours of continuous use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Pelican Vault V200 continues to impress. I’ve used it on numerous camping trips, shooting range visits, and even as a temporary storage solution for sensitive electronics during a home renovation project. It has been exposed to everything from scorching desert heat to freezing mountain temperatures.
The V200 has proven to be incredibly durable. There are a few minor cosmetic scratches on the exterior, but the case remains structurally sound and the latches continue to function flawlessly. The internal foam and dividers have also held up well, showing no signs of wear or tear.
Maintaining the Pelican Vault V200 is remarkably simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove dirt, mud, or other debris. The case’s robust construction makes it resistant to stains and odors.
In comparison to my previous experiences with cheaper protective cases, the Pelican Vault V200 is in a completely different league. It provides a level of protection and reliability that I simply couldn’t find elsewhere.
Breaking Down the Features of Pelican Vault V200 Medium Case with Lid Foam and Dividers
Specifications
- Dimensions: The case measures 15.4 x 13.1 x 6.2 inches, providing ample space for a variety of equipment. This size strikes a great balance between portability and storage capacity, making it ideal for various applications.
- Construction: Made from high-impact polymer, the V200 is built to withstand extreme conditions and impacts. This ensures that your valuable gear remains safe and protected, even in the most demanding environments.
- Interior: The case features lid foam and touch-fastening dividers for customizable protection. This allows you to create a tailored fit for your specific equipment, preventing movement and minimizing the risk of damage.
- Latches: Equipped with easy-open, push-button latches, the V200 provides quick and secure access to your gear. The latches are designed for durability and ease of use, even with gloved hands.
- Hardware: The case incorporates stainless steel lock hasps for added security. This allows you to secure the case with padlocks, preventing unauthorized access to your valuable equipment.
- Weather Resistance: The Pelican Vault V200 is crush and dustproof and weather resistant. This protects your gear from the elements, ensuring that it remains safe and functional in all conditions.
- Ergonomics: The heavy-duty ergonomic handle provides a comfortable and secure grip for easy transport. The handle is designed to withstand heavy loads and provide a balanced feel when carrying the case.
- Purge Valve: Includes a purge vent that balances air pressure inside the case. This is especially important during air travel or when moving between different altitudes.
Performance & Functionality
The Pelican Vault V200 excels at its primary function: protecting sensitive equipment. The case’s robust construction and customizable interior ensure that your gear remains safe and secure, regardless of the conditions. It performed consistently well during testing.
The case’s strengths lie in its durability, ease of use, and customizable interior. The main area for improvement would be the handle, which could be made more comfortable for extended carrying. It definitely meets and exceeds expectations based on its price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The Pelican Vault V200 boasts a rugged and functional design. The high-impact polymer construction provides excellent protection while keeping the weight manageable. It fits comfortably in hand.
There is virtually no learning curve associated with using the case. The easy-open latches and customizable dividers make it intuitive and straightforward to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Pelican Vault V200 is built to last a lifetime. Its robust construction and high-quality materials ensure that it can withstand years of use and abuse.
Maintaining the case is incredibly simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all it takes to keep it clean and functioning properly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Pelican Vault V200 comes with lid foam and touch-fastening dividers. These allow you to create a custom interior that perfectly fits your specific gear.
The case is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, such as padlocks, carrying straps, and custom foam inserts. This allows you to further customize the case to meet your specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Pelican Vault V200 Medium Case with Lid Foam and Dividers
Pros
- Exceptional durability thanks to its high-impact polymer construction.
- Customizable interior with lid foam and touch-fastening dividers.
- Weather-resistant design protects gear from the elements.
- Easy-open, push-button latches provide quick and secure access.
- Affordable price compared to other high-end protective cases.
Cons
- Handle could be more comfortable for extended carrying.
- Limited color options available.
Who Should Buy Pelican Vault V200 Medium Case with Lid Foam and Dividers?
The Pelican Vault V200 Medium Case with Lid Foam and Dividers is perfect for photographers, videographers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who needs to protect sensitive equipment during transport or storage. It’s also ideal for firearm owners needing a secure and discreet case.
This product might not be the best choice for individuals who require an extremely lightweight case or need a very large storage capacity. It is also not a replacement for a dedicated gun safe.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality padlock to secure the stainless steel lock hasps. Consider a custom foam insert if you need a more precise fit for specific equipment.
Conclusion on Pelican Vault V200 Medium Case with Lid Foam and Dividers
The Pelican Vault V200 Medium Case with Lid Foam and Dividers is an outstanding protective case that offers exceptional durability, customizable interior, and weather resistance at an affordable price. It offers a crush and dustproof environment.
The price of $99.95 is more than justified, given the level of protection and reliability that this case provides. It’s an investment in the safety and longevity of your valuable equipment.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Pelican Vault V200 to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile protective case. It is a solid and dependable product. Don’t risk damaging your valuable gear; invest in the Pelican Vault V200 today!