Pelican 1560 Watertight Hard Large Cases with Wheels Review

Let’s Dive into Pelican 1560 Watertight Hard Large Cases with Wheels

For over a decade, I’ve been sourcing, testing, and recommending gear for the outdoor and tactical communities. Choosing the right protective case for your valuable equipment is paramount, and the Pelican 1560 Watertight Hard Large Cases with Wheels stands out as a top contender in the rugged transportation category. I’ve seen too much expensive gear damaged due to inadequate protection, and a solid case is often the only thing standing between your equipment and disaster.

I needed a reliable, wheeled solution for transporting sensitive camera equipment and lighting gear to remote locations for photo shoots. After years of struggling with flimsy rolling bags that constantly broke down, I knew it was time to invest in a case that could withstand serious abuse.

Upon unboxing the Pelican 1560, I was immediately impressed by its robust construction and overall design. The weight was substantial, but reassuring – a testament to the high-quality materials used. The case felt virtually indestructible.

I considered other options like the SKB iSeries 2217-12 and the Nanuk 935. Ultimately, I chose the Pelican 1560 for its legendary durability and the peace of mind that comes with Pelican’s lifetime guarantee. The other cases seemed less robust in comparison.

My first impression was a resounding “finally!” I was excited to have a case that could genuinely protect my gear, instead of just delaying the inevitable damage. I also felt a sense of relief knowing I wouldn’t have to worry about replacing it anytime soon, thanks to Pelican’s reputation.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Pelican 1560 Watertight Hard Large Cases with Wheels to the Test

First Use Experience

My first serious test for the Pelican 1560 was a multi-day photography expedition in the rugged terrain of the Utah desert. I needed to transport sensitive camera equipment, lenses, and a drone across varied landscapes. The case was subjected to bouncing around in the back of a pickup truck, being dragged across rocky surfaces, and exposure to intense sunlight and dust.

The Pelican 1560 performed admirably in these harsh conditions. The watertight seal kept dust and moisture out, even during a brief but intense rain shower. The wheels and extending handle made navigating uneven terrain surprisingly manageable.

The case was easy to use right out of the box. I did spend some time configuring the foam inserts to properly cradle my gear, but once that was done, everything was secure and well-protected. The extending handle operates smoothly.

Initially, I was slightly concerned about the weight of the case when fully loaded. However, the wheels and handle system made it manageable, even when navigating rough terrain. I did not experience any issues or surprises.

Extended Use & Reliability

After six months of regular use, the Pelican 1560 has held up exceptionally well. There are some minor scuffs and scratches on the exterior, which is to be expected given the environments I’ve subjected it to. None of these cosmetic blemishes have compromised the case’s structural integrity.

The durability of this case is outstanding. The latches remain secure, the wheels still roll smoothly, and the watertight seal remains intact. I am impressed with its performance.

Cleaning the Pelican 1560 is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dust and dirt. The polypropylene material is resistant to staining and easy to maintain.

This case far outperforms any rolling luggage or soft-sided camera bag I’ve used in the past. The level of protection and peace of mind is unmatched. I previously used generic brand rolling bags that consistently failed under similar conditions.

Breaking Down the Features of Pelican 1560 Watertight Hard Large Cases with Wheels

Specifications

• The Pelican 1560 Watertight Hard Large Cases with Wheels is manufactured by Pelican. Pelican is known for producing extremely durable and high-quality protective cases.
• It includes Wheels for easy transport. Wheels are essential for a case of this size and weight.
• It has a Depth/Thickness of 10.42 in. This ample depth allows for storing larger items or more items with sufficient padding.
• The case has a Length of 22.07 in. This length offers ample space for longer equipment or multiple smaller items.
• The Width of the case is 17.92 in. The substantial width contributes to the overall storage capacity of the Pelican 1560.
• The case is constructed from Polypropylene. Polypropylene is a robust, impact-resistant material ideal for protective cases.
• The Finish is Smooth. A smooth finish makes the case easier to clean and less prone to snagging.
• Additional Features include being Dustproof, Watertight, and Crushproof. These features are crucial for protecting sensitive equipment in harsh environments.
• The case Weight is 17 lb. The weight is a testament to the case’s robust construction.
• Internal Dimensions are 19.92 x 14.98 x 9 in. These dimensions provide ample space for customization with foam or dividers.

Performance & Functionality

The Pelican 1560 Watertight Hard Large Cases with Wheels excels at its primary function: protecting valuable equipment. Its robust construction and watertight seal provide exceptional protection against impacts, water, dust, and other environmental hazards. It simply works.

Its strengths lie in its durability, ease of use, and peace of mind it provides. The only area for improvement would be to reduce the overall weight without sacrificing strength. The wheels are a major advantage, as is the customizable foam.

It exceeds my expectations for a protective case. It’s a noticeable upgrade in terms of protection and durability. My generic bags lasted maybe one or two trips.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is exceptional. The polypropylene material is robust and the latches are secure. The case feels incredibly solid and well-made.

The Pelican 1560 is generally user-friendly. Configuring the foam inserts takes some time and effort, but once completed, it offers a customized and secure storage solution. The extending handle and smooth-rolling wheels enhance its usability.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Pelican 1560 should last for many years. Its durable construction and high-quality materials are designed to withstand significant abuse. It will outlast generic brands easily.

Maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean. Replacement parts, such as latches and wheels, are readily available should they ever be needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Pelican 1560 does not come with a wide array of accessories, but it does offer several customization options. The most common accessory is the foam insert set, which allows users to create custom compartments for their equipment. Lid organizers and padded divider sets are also available.

It is compatible with a wide range of third-party accessories, such as locks, straps, and labels. The internal dimensions are standardized, allowing for easy integration with aftermarket foam and divider systems. The lid organizer is highly recommended.

Pros and Cons of Pelican 1560 Watertight Hard Large Cases with Wheels

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Who Should Buy Pelican 1560 Watertight Hard Large Cases with Wheels?

The Pelican 1560 Watertight Hard Large Cases with Wheels is perfect for photographers, videographers, and other professionals who need to transport sensitive equipment in harsh environments. It’s also well-suited for hunters, law enforcement, and military personnel who require a durable and reliable case for their firearms and tactical gear. Anyone that has expensive, delicate gear to transport can use this.

Someone looking for a lightweight or inexpensive solution should probably skip this product. Those on a very tight budget may be better off with a less robust, generic brand case.

A must-have accessory is a set of custom-cut foam inserts designed specifically for your gear. A TSA-approved padlock is also recommended for added security when traveling. Consider adding the lid organizer.

Conclusion on Pelican 1560 Watertight Hard Large Cases with Wheels

The Pelican 1560 Watertight Hard Large Cases with Wheels is an exceptional protective case that offers unmatched durability, reliability, and peace of mind. While the price point is higher than some competing brands, the investment is justified by its superior quality and long-term value. It is a “buy once, cry once” situation.

The price is absolutely justified. This case will protect your gear.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Pelican 1560 to anyone who needs a rugged and reliable case for their valuable equipment. It’s a worthwhile investment that will protect your gear for years to come. Don’t risk damaging your equipment with inferior cases – invest in a Pelican 1560 and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your gear is safe and secure.