What Makes Pelican Case 1170NF with no Foam and Lid – Black – 1 out of 5 models Stand Out?
In a world saturated with gear promising ultimate protection, the Pelican Case 1170NF with no Foam and Lid – Black – 1 out of 5 models carves out its niche as a compact, rugged, and customizable solution for safeguarding your valuables. Manufactured by Pelican, a name synonymous with durability, this case offers a watertight, crushproof, and dustproof haven without the pre-cut foam, granting users complete control over their internal organization. It’s the blank canvas for protection, and that’s precisely what makes it compelling.
I was searching for a reliable way to safeguard sensitive electronics while hiking and kayaking. Many “waterproof” bags failed me in the past, especially when submerged, so I needed something more robust.
The Pelican Case 1170NF arrived in simple packaging, a testament to Pelican’s confidence in the product speaking for itself. The black polymer felt incredibly solid in my hands, and the latches snapped closed with a satisfyingly secure click. It was noticeably lighter than I expected, a welcome surprise considering its reputation.
Compared to similar cases like the Nanuk 905 or a generic Amazon-branded hard case, the Pelican 1170NF won me over with its proven track record and lifetime guarantee. While the Nanuk offered similar features, Pelican’s reputation for unwavering customer support sealed the deal. The generic case simply couldn’t compete on build quality and trusted protection.
My initial reaction was excitement mixed with a tinge of anticipation. Would it live up to the Pelican hype? The absence of foam initially felt like a missed opportunity but quickly transformed into a liberating blank slate.
Real-World Testing: Putting Pelican Case 1170NF with no Foam and Lid – Black – Black – 1 out of 5 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My first true test for the Pelican Case 1170NF was a weekend fly-fishing trip in the rugged mountains of Montana. I used it to protect my DSLR camera, extra lenses, and a portable GPS unit from the elements. The varying weather conditions were optimal to test the case’s capabilities.
The case performed admirably in intermittent rain and kept the gear dry and protected during accidental bumps against rocks. Opening and closing the latches with wet hands proved easy, and the grip remained secure. There was no learning curve; it was intuitive from the start.
The only minor issue was a slight condensation buildup inside the case after a significant temperature drop overnight. This didn’t damage the gear, but it highlighted the importance of potentially adding desiccant packs for sensitive electronics in fluctuating environments.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a week-long kayak trip and numerous hiking excursions, the Pelican Case 1170NF continues to impress. There are no visible signs of wear and tear beyond a few minor scuffs on the exterior. Its durability is impressive.
Cleaning the case is effortless. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth removes mud and grime. The O-ring seal remains intact, ensuring consistent watertight performance.
Compared to a cheaper hard case I used previously, the Pelican 1170NF is in a completely different league. The previous case succumbed to cracking after a single drop, while the Pelican barely flinched. It truly outperforms the competition, making it worth the investment.
Breaking Down the Features of Pelican Case 1170NF with no Foam and Lid – Black – 1 out of 5 models
Specifications
The Pelican Case 1170NF boasts impressive specifications that contribute to its overall protective capabilities.
Its exterior dimensions are approximately 11.67″ x 8.20″ x 3.56″, making it compact and easily portable.The case features easy open Double Throw latches that are robust and designed for quick access even with gloved hands.
These latches ensure a secure closure, maintaining the case’s watertight seal.Its open cell core with solid wall design achieves a balance of strength and lightweight construction.
This design provides exceptional impact resistance without adding unnecessary bulk.The case incorporates an O-ring seal, contributing to its watertight capabilities.
This seal prevents water and dust from entering, protecting sensitive equipment.An Automatic Pressure Equalization Valve is integrated to balance internal pressure, particularly important during altitude changes.
This valve also prevents vacuum lock, making the case easy to open in varying environments.The use of stainless steel hardware ensures corrosion resistance and longevity.
This is especially important in harsh outdoor conditions.
These specifications matter because they translate directly into real-world protection. The size is ideal for smaller electronics or valuables, while the robust construction and watertight seal provide peace of mind in demanding environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Pelican Case 1170NF excels at its primary job: protecting valuable gear. Its watertight, crushproof, and dustproof design ensures that contents remain safe from the elements and physical impacts.
The case’s strengths lie in its robust construction, reliable latches, and effective sealing. However, the absence of foam necessitates careful planning and potentially the purchase of aftermarket inserts to prevent items from shifting during transport.
The Pelican Case 1170NF meets and exceeds expectations for a protective case in this size range. It delivers on its promise of durability and weather resistance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Pelican Case 1170NF’s design is utilitarian and focused on functionality. The materials used are high-quality, resulting in a solid and durable feel.
The case is comfortable to carry thanks to its relatively lightweight construction and manageable size. There’s no real learning curve involved; its design is simple and intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
The Pelican Case 1170NF is built to last a lifetime, thanks to its rugged polymer construction and stainless steel hardware. With proper care, it should withstand years of heavy use.
Maintenance is simple: wipe it down with a damp cloth as needed. The O-ring seal should be inspected periodically and lubricated with silicone grease to maintain its watertight properties.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Pelican Case 1170NF doesn’t come with any accessories, such as foam inserts. This allows for complete customization based on the user’s specific needs.
Numerous aftermarket foam inserts, dividers, and organizational solutions are available from Pelican and other manufacturers. These options allow users to tailor the case to their specific equipment and preferences. The case is compatible with a wide range of accessories designed for similar-sized Pelican cases.
Pros and Cons of Pelican Case 1170NF with no Foam and Lid – Black – 1 out of 5 models
Pros
- Unrivaled Protection: Watertight, crushproof, and dustproof design provides peace of mind in demanding environments.
- Customizable Interior: The absence of pre-cut foam allows users to tailor the case to their specific needs and equipment.
- Durable Construction: High-quality polymer and stainless steel hardware ensure long-lasting performance.
- Easy to Use: Simple latches and intuitive design make the case easy to open and close, even with gloves.
- Lifetime Guarantee: Pelican’s unwavering commitment to quality is backed by a lifetime guarantee of excellence.
Cons
- The lack of included foam necessitates the purchase of aftermarket inserts, adding to the overall cost.
- Condensation can build up inside the case in fluctuating temperatures, requiring the use of desiccant packs for sensitive electronics.
Who Should Buy Pelican Case 1170NF with no Foam and Lid – Black – 1 out of 5 models?
The Pelican Case 1170NF is perfect for photographers, videographers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who needs to protect sensitive equipment from the elements. It’s ideal for safeguarding cameras, lenses, GPS units, electronic devices, and other valuables.
Individuals seeking an all-in-one solution with pre-cut foam should consider other Pelican models. Also, those on a very tight budget might explore less expensive, albeit less durable, alternatives.
Must-have accessories include custom foam inserts, dividers, and desiccant packs. A shoulder strap can also enhance portability.
Conclusion on Pelican Case 1170NF with no Foam and Lid – Black – 1 out of 5 models
The Pelican Case 1170NF with no Foam and Lid – Black – 1 out of 5 models is a testament to Pelican’s commitment to quality and durability. While the lack of included foam may seem like a drawback, it’s ultimately a strength, allowing for complete customization and tailored protection.
The price is justified by the case’s robust construction, reliable performance, and lifetime guarantee. This is an investment in protecting valuable gear.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Pelican Case 1170NF to anyone seeking a compact, rugged, and customizable protective solution. Don’t risk your gear with subpar alternatives – invest in the Pelican difference. Protect your investment; get yours today!