Loaded Gear HD-100 Watertight Dry Box Review

Let’s Dive into Loaded Gear HD-100 Watertight Dry Box

The Loaded Gear HD-100 Watertight Dry Box from Barska is a compact, rugged storage solution designed to protect your valuable and delicate items from the elements. It boasts a watertight seal, crushproof construction, and customizable foam interior making it ideal for a variety of outdoor and tactical applications. I first encountered the need for a reliable dry box during a particularly soggy camping trip where my essential electronics were nearly ruined by an unexpected downpour. I needed something small, lightweight, and virtually indestructible to safeguard my gear.

The Loaded Gear HD-100 immediately caught my eye with its promise of a watertight and crushproof design. I considered other options like Pelican’s Micro Cases and Plano’s Waterproof StowAway boxes, but the HD-100’s combination of features, compact size, and price point made it the most attractive choice. Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the solid feel and robust construction. The latches snapped securely, and the overall build quality exuded confidence. I was excited to put it to the test.

Real-World Testing: Putting Loaded Gear HD-100 Watertight Dry Box to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test for the Loaded Gear HD-100 was a weekend fishing trip to a notoriously unpredictable river. I used the dry box to protect my phone, wallet, and keys while wading in the river. Despite a few accidental dunks and splashes, everything inside remained bone dry. The box easily fit in my fishing vest pocket, making it convenient to carry without being cumbersome.

The HD-100 performed admirably in these wet conditions; however, I did find that the latches were a little stiff to open with wet hands. Also, while setting up camp, the box sat outside and got exposed to dust and some water. Once back home, the box was cleaned with warm water and left to dry. Overall, I considered the first use a success.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use across various outdoor activities, the Loaded Gear HD-100 has proven to be a reliable and durable companion. It’s accompanied me on hiking trips, shooting range days, and even survived a few accidental drops onto hard surfaces. There are minor scratches on the exterior, but the box’s structural integrity remains intact. I regularly wipe the box down with a damp cloth after use, and the O-ring seal still looks and feels as good as new.

Compared to a similar dry box I previously owned, the HD-100 definitely outperforms in terms of its crushproof design and secure latching mechanism. The purge valve is a welcome feature, especially when travelling by air, as it prevents the case from becoming difficult to open due to pressure changes. The build quality inspires more confidence, making me more comfortable entrusting it with my valuable gear.

Breaking Down the Features of Loaded Gear HD-100 Watertight Dry Box

Specifications

• The Loaded Gear HD-100 Watertight Dry Box weighs in at just 1.25 lbs, making it incredibly lightweight and easy to carry. This is crucial for those who need to minimize weight while hiking, camping, or traveling.
• The outer dimensions are 8.3″ x 3.5″ x 6.6″, while the inner dimensions are 7.30″ x 2.95″ x 4.83″, providing a compact yet usable space for storing valuables. The size strikes a great balance between portability and storage capacity, accommodating items like smartphones, wallets, keys, and small electronics.
• The case material is durable Polypropylene, ensuring a high level of impact resistance and protection from the elements. Polypropylene is also chemically resistant, adding another layer of protection for the contents inside.
• It includes pre-perforated cubed foam and egg crate foam padding, allowing for customizable protection for delicate items. The customizable foam ensures that items stay secure and protected from movement, while the egg crate foam on the lid and base provides additional cushioning.
• The HD-100 has a working temperature range of -10°F to 210°F, making it suitable for use in extreme environments. This wide temperature range means it can withstand freezing temperatures as well as hot desert conditions.
• A watertight seal is achieved through the O-ring lining and secure latches, preventing water and moisture from entering the case. This is vital for protecting sensitive electronics and other valuable items from water damage.
• The edge-to-edge crushproof case design protects the contents from impact and pressure. This ensures that the contents remain safe even if the case is subjected to significant force or weight.

Performance & Functionality

The Loaded Gear HD-100 performs its primary function of protecting valuables exceptionally well. Its watertight seal, crushproof design, and customizable foam interior provide reliable protection in a variety of conditions. However, the latches can be a bit stiff to operate, especially in cold or wet conditions, requiring a bit of extra effort to open and close.

The box’s strengths lie in its compact size, rugged construction, and effective protection against water and impact. One area for improvement would be the latch design, perhaps incorporating a more ergonomic or easily manipulated mechanism. Overall, it exceeds my expectations for a dry box in this price range, offering a great balance of protection and portability.

Design & Ergonomics

The HD-100 sports a simple, functional design. The black polypropylene exterior is understated yet durable, and the carry handle is comfortable to grip. The case feels solid and well-built in hand, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand rough handling. However, the edges of the box could be slightly more rounded for improved ergonomics.

There’s virtually no learning curve. The pre-perforated foam is easy to customize, and the latches are intuitive to use, despite their stiffness. The purge valve is also a great addition, allowing to equalize internal pressure after ascending to higher altitudes while hiking.

Durability & Maintenance

With its rugged polypropylene construction and robust latches, the Loaded Gear HD-100 is built to last. I anticipate that it will provide years of reliable service with proper care. The box is easy to clean with soap and water, and the O-ring seal can be lubricated periodically to maintain its watertight integrity. However, the foam inserts may eventually need replacing with extended use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Loaded Gear HD-100 comes standard with cubed foam and removable top and bottom foam. These accessories provide immediate customizable protection. While there aren’t many aftermarket accessories specifically designed for this particular dry box, the foam inserts can be easily replaced with similar products from other brands, allowing users to further customize the interior to their specific needs.

Pros and Cons of Loaded Gear HD-100 Watertight Dry Box

Who Should Buy Loaded Gear HD-100 Watertight Dry Box?

The Loaded Gear HD-100 is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, photographers, anglers, and anyone who needs to protect sensitive equipment from the elements. It’s especially well-suited for hikers, campers, and kayakers who need a compact, lightweight, and reliable storage solution. However, someone who requires a larger capacity dry box or needs advanced features like integrated mounting systems may want to consider other options.

A must-have modification to consider is replacing the factory foam if you have specialized equipment for which you desire a custom mold. Also, purchasing multiple of these cases in varying colors helps keep equipment organized.

Conclusion on Loaded Gear HD-100 Watertight Dry Box

The Loaded Gear HD-100 Watertight Dry Box is a well-built, reliable, and affordable solution for protecting your valuables from water and impact. Its compact size, customizable foam interior, and rugged construction make it an excellent choice for a variety of outdoor and tactical applications. At $51.99, the price is definitely justified by the level of protection and durability it provides.

I would highly recommend the Loaded Gear HD-100 to anyone looking for a small, rugged, and watertight dry box. It’s a worthwhile investment that will give you peace of mind knowing your valuable gear is protected. Don’t let your gear be a casualty of the elements – grab an HD-100 and keep your essentials safe and dry on your next adventure!