Pelican 1740 Protector Case Black Review

The Pelican 1740 Protector Case Black Made a Bold First Impression

The Pelican 1740 Protector Case Black isn’t just another hard case; it’s a fortress for your firearms, a statement of serious intent. Pelican has built a reputation on rugged, reliable protection, and the 1740 model appears to be no exception, promising watertight, crushproof, and dustproof security.

I needed a reliable case to transport a competition rifle across state lines for matches. Soft cases weren’t cutting it, and airline travel demanded something far more robust. This case seemed to be the ideal solution.

Unboxing the Pelican 1740 Protector Case Black, the first thing that struck me was its sheer size and solid construction. The black polymer shell felt incredibly durable, and the double-throw latches snapped closed with a reassuringly firm click. It definitely feels like it can take a beating.

I considered the Plano All Weather 2 Gun Case and the Savior Equipment American Classic Double Rifle Case. The Plano felt flimsy compared to the Pelican, and the Savior, while well-padded, didn’t offer the same level of crushproof protection. The Pelican 1740 won out due to its reputation and its hard-shell, waterproof design.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism turning into excitement. While the size is considerable, the promise of uncompromising protection and organizational capability had me eager to put it through its paces. This wasn’t just a case; it was an investment in peace of mind.

Real-World Testing: Putting Pelican 1740 Protector Case Black to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test run was at a local outdoor shooting range, transporting my precision rifle and optics. I drove through a short rain shower, and the case sat in the back of my truck bed. I was confident that it would protect my gear.

The weather turned foul with light rain and mud, but the Pelican 1740 Protector Case Black shrugged it off effortlessly. Opening it up after the downpour, everything inside was bone dry and pristine. Using the wide-track wheels made transport over uneven terrain surprisingly easy.

There was a slight learning curve with the pick-n-pluck foam, requiring careful planning and precise removal to create secure compartments. However, once done, everything fit snugly, and I was confident that my equipment wouldn’t shift during transport. All my gear was completely secure.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Pelican 1740 Protector Case Black has proven itself remarkably durable. The exterior has a few minor scuffs, but the overall integrity of the case remains intact. The wheels still roll smoothly, and the latches continue to function flawlessly.

Even with constant use, there are no signs of cracks or structural weaknesses. Maintenance is a breeze; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove dirt and grime. I have transported the case on planes, trains, and automobiles.

Having used cheaper cases in the past, the Pelican 1740 has been a revelation in terms of peace of mind. Where I once worried about potential damage during transport, I now have complete confidence in the protection it provides. It drastically outperforms any case I’ve used before.

Breaking Down the Features of Pelican 1740 Protector Case Black

Specifications

The Pelican 1740 Protector Case Black boasts an interior dimension of 41″ x 12.9″ x 12.1″, providing ample space for rifles, shotguns, or sensitive equipment. It features four extra-deep, base-to-lid locking cleats for stacking stability, making it easy to store multiple cases.

The case incorporates an automatic pressure equalization valve, ensuring that it can be easily opened after changes in altitude or temperature. It uses a robust O-ring seal, which makes it watertight, crushproof, and dustproof. It also comes with a 6-piece pick-n-pluck foam set.

The wide-track polyurethane wheels with ball bearings and nylon hubs allow for smooth and effortless transport. The fold-down side handle provides a comfortable grip when lifting the case, and the double-throw latches ensure a secure closure. Stainless steel hardware and padlock protectors further enhance its durability and security. These specifications directly contribute to the case’s ability to withstand harsh conditions and protect valuable contents.

Performance & Functionality

The Pelican 1740 Protector Case Black excels at its primary function: protecting valuable equipment from damage. Its watertight seal keeps out moisture, while its crushproof construction shields against impacts.

The pick-n-pluck foam allows for customized organization, ensuring that items are held securely in place. The rolling wheels and side handle make transport easy, even when the case is fully loaded. The only weakness is the initial setup of the foam; it requires patience and careful planning.

Overall, the Pelican 1740 Protector Case Black exceeds my expectations. It provides unparalleled protection, convenient transport, and customizable organization, making it an ideal solution for safeguarding valuable equipment. It’s as simple as it gets.

Design & Ergonomics

The Pelican 1740 Protector Case Black is built from high-quality polymer, resulting in a durable yet relatively lightweight design. The case is comfortable to carry using the fold-down side handle, and the rolling wheels make transport a breeze.

The double-throw latches are easy to operate but provide a secure closure. The pick-n-pluck foam allows for a high degree of customization, but it can take some time to set up properly. There’s virtually no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The Pelican 1740 Protector Case Black is built to last. Its high-quality polymer shell is resistant to impacts, scratches, and abrasions. Stainless steel hardware ensures that the latches and hinges will not corrode over time.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. The case is designed to withstand years of use, making it a worthwhile investment. This case will outlast its owner if taken care of.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Pelican 1740 Protector Case Black comes standard with a 6-piece pick-n-pluck foam set, allowing for customized organization. There are no specific Pelican-branded accessories for this model, but the interior can be further customized with aftermarket foam inserts or dividers.

The case is compatible with standard padlocks, allowing for enhanced security. Some users have also added custom labels or nameplates for identification purposes. It’s a customizable platform.

Pros and Cons of Pelican 1740 Protector Case Black