First Thoughts on the Pelican Vault Small Case Polyethylene Black 23″L X 13″ W x 13″ D (Exterior)
The Pelican Vault Small Case Polyethylene Black 23″L X 13″ W x 13″ D (Exterior) enters a market saturated with protective cases, promising rugged durability and weather resistance at a competitive price point. Pelican is a name synonymous with quality protection, and the Vault series aims to deliver that reputation in a more accessible package. This particular case boasts a high-impact polyethylene construction, push-button latches, and multiple layers of protective foam.
I was in dire need of a reliable case to transport my competition pistol to and from the range, without breaking the bank. I had been using a soft-sided range bag, but it offered little protection against bumps and scrapes, especially during transport with other gear. The promise of crushproof, dustproof, and weather-resistant protection was a major draw.
Upon unboxing, the Pelican Vault Small Case Polyethylene Black 23″L X 13″ W x 13″ D (Exterior) felt solid and reassuringly robust. The polyethylene shell had a slight texture, providing a good grip, and the latches snapped closed with a satisfying click. It felt significantly more substantial than the cheaper, generic cases I’ve encountered.
Compared to a similarly sized Plano hard case (which felt flimsy) and a higher-end Nanuk case (prohibitively expensive for my needs), the Pelican Vault seemed to strike a good balance of price and performance. I was particularly impressed with the heft of the case and the positive engagement of the latches, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand rough handling. My initial reaction was positive: I was excited to see how it performed in real-world conditions and was hoping it was the solution I needed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Pelican Vault Small Case Polyethylene Black 23″L X 13″ W x 13″ D (Exterior) to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Pelican Vault Small Case Polyethylene Black 23″L X 13″ W x 13″ D (Exterior) was at an outdoor shooting range during a somewhat damp and breezy day. I needed to transport my pistol, magazines, and some small tools safely and securely. The case fit perfectly in the trunk of my car, and the two push-button latches made opening and closing the case effortless, even with gloves on.
The multiple layers of foam inside held my pistol securely, preventing any movement during transport. Despite the rough handling while navigating the uneven terrain of the range, the contents remained completely protected. There were no issues whatsoever, and the case performed exactly as intended.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Pelican Vault Small Case Polyethylene Black 23″L X 13″ W x 13″ D (Exterior) continues to hold up admirably. The polyethylene shell shows minimal signs of wear, despite being tossed around in my vehicle and occasionally subjected to less-than-gentle handling. The latches still function perfectly, maintaining a tight and secure seal.
Cleaning is a breeze: a simple wipe down with a damp cloth removes any dust or dirt. The foam interior has retained its shape and continues to provide excellent cushioning. Compared to my previous soft-sided bag, the Pelican Vault offers vastly superior protection and peace of mind. It significantly outperforms anything else I’ve used in this price range.
Breaking Down the Features of Pelican Vault Small Case Polyethylene Black 23″L X 13″ W x 13″ D (Exterior)
Specifications
The Pelican Vault Small Case Polyethylene Black 23″L X 13″ W x 13″ D (Exterior) has exterior dimensions of 23″ L x 13″ W x 13″ D, while the interior provides a more compact space of 11″ L x 8″ W x 4.5″ D. It is constructed from high-impact polyethylene, ensuring durability and resistance to impacts. The case features two push-button latches for secure closure and easy access.
The polymer material of the shell provides excellent impact resistance, preventing damage to the contents during rough handling. The two stainless steel lock hasps allow for the addition of padlocks, providing extra security during transport and storage. These specifications are critical because they determine the level of protection offered and the case’s overall functionality.
Performance & Functionality
The Pelican Vault Small Case Polyethylene Black 23″L X 13″ W x 13″ D (Exterior) performs its primary function – protecting its contents – exceptionally well. Its crushproof, dustproof, and weather-resistant design ensures that firearms and other sensitive equipment remain safe and secure in various conditions. The case’s simple and effective design makes it easy to use.
One of the strengths is the ease of use: the push-button latches are a significant improvement over traditional latches that can be difficult to operate. A minor weakness is the limited interior space: while sufficient for a pistol and a few magazines, it may not accommodate larger accessories or multiple firearms. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a case in its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Pelican Vault Small Case Polyethylene Black 23″L X 13″ W x 13″ D (Exterior) features a no-nonsense, functional design. The polyethylene shell is robust and provides a secure grip, even when wet. The case’s weight is manageable, making it easy to carry, and the handle is comfortable, even when fully loaded.
The case is relatively user-friendly with no complicated mechanisms or features to learn. Its design focuses on simplicity and effectiveness. The only potential drawback is the somewhat utilitarian aesthetic.
Durability & Maintenance
The Pelican Vault Small Case Polyethylene Black 23″L X 13″ W x 13″ D (Exterior) is built to last, thanks to its high-impact polyethylene construction. It is highly resistant to impacts, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. The case is also easy to maintain: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime.
The simple design minimizes the risk of mechanical failure, and the stainless steel lock hasps are resistant to corrosion. With proper care, this case should provide years of reliable service. Repairing any damage would likely involve replacing the entire case, but given its robust construction, significant damage is unlikely under normal use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Pelican Vault Small Case Polyethylene Black 23″L X 13″ W x 13″ D (Exterior) comes with multiple layers of protective foam. While it doesn’t come with specific accessories, it can be customized with aftermarket foam inserts or dividers to suit individual needs.
The two stainless steel lock hasps allow for the addition of padlocks for enhanced security. The internal dimensions are also compatible with various third-party organizers and inserts designed for small cases.
Pros and Cons of Pelican Vault Small Case Polyethylene Black 23″L X 13″ W x 13″ D (Exterior)
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: High-impact polyethylene construction provides excellent protection against impacts and abrasions.
- Secure Closure: Push-button latches ensure a tight and reliable seal, keeping contents safe and secure.
- Weather Resistance: Designed to protect against moisture, dust, and other environmental elements.
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for money compared to other protective cases with similar features.
- Customizable Interior: Compatible with aftermarket foam inserts and organizers.
Cons
- Limited Interior Space: May not accommodate larger accessories or multiple firearms.
- Utilitarian Design: Lacks the aesthetic appeal of higher-end cases.
Who Should Buy Pelican Vault Small Case Polyethylene Black 23″L X 13″ W x 13″ D (Exterior)?
The Pelican Vault Small Case Polyethylene Black 23″L X 13″ W x 13″ D (Exterior) is perfect for gun owners, photographers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who needs to transport and protect sensitive equipment. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a durable and reliable case without breaking the bank. It’s particularly well-suited for individuals who frequently visit the shooting range.
Those who require a larger case for multiple firearms or extensive accessories should skip this product. Individuals looking for a more aesthetically pleasing case might also want to consider other options. A must-have accessory is a set of quality padlocks to secure the stainless steel hasps for extra security during transport.
Conclusion on Pelican Vault Small Case Polyethylene Black 23″L X 13″ W x 13″ D (Exterior)
The Pelican Vault Small Case Polyethylene Black 23″L X 13″ W x 13″ D (Exterior) is an outstanding protective case that delivers on its promises of durability, weather resistance, and secure closure. At a price of $49.95, the value proposition is exceptional. It offers a level of protection and reliability that far exceeds its cost.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Pelican Vault Small Case Polyethylene Black 23″L X 13″ W x 13″ D (Exterior) to anyone in need of a dependable and affordable way to protect their firearms and other sensitive equipment. If you’re looking for a case that combines rugged performance with a reasonable price tag, look no further and invest in the Pelican Vault for peace of mind and reliable protection.