Ready Packs Nylon Map Case Review

First Impressions of Ready Packs Nylon Map Case

In an age dominated by GPS and digital navigation, the humble map remains an indispensable tool for the serious outdoorsman, tactical operator, and anyone venturing off the grid. The Ready Packs Nylon Map Case promises a simple yet effective solution for protecting and utilizing these critical navigational aids. Ready Packs, a manufacturer known for functional and budget-friendly gear, aims to provide a durable and weatherproof housing for your maps. For just $14.99, it certainly piqued my interest to see if this was a worthwhile investment.

I needed a reliable way to protect my maps during extended backpacking trips in unpredictable weather. I’ve struggled with flimsy plastic bags that tear easily and offer little protection against moisture and abrasion. My hope was that the Ready Packs Nylon Map Case would provide a more robust solution, allowing me to focus on navigation rather than worrying about map damage.

Upon receiving the map case, my initial impression was one of simple functionality. The nylon material felt reasonably durable, and the clear PVC window offered good visibility. It was lightweight, a key consideration for anyone trying to minimize pack weight. Compared to heavier, more elaborate map cases I’ve used in the past, the Ready Packs Nylon Map Case seemed like a no-frills option focused on the essentials.

I considered the Condor Outdoor Map Case and the Maxpedition M5 Waistpack Organizer before ultimately choosing the Ready Packs Nylon Map Case. The Condor seemed a bit bulky for my needs, while the Maxpedition was overkill in terms of organization and price. I opted for the Ready Packs Nylon Map Case due to its simplicity, lightweight design, and appealing price point.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The build quality seemed adequate for the price, but I was eager to test its durability and weather resistance in the field. It wasn’t an item that initially screamed quality or exceptional design, but I was curious to see how it performed in real-world situations.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Ready Packs Nylon Map Case to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Ready Packs Nylon Map Case during a three-day backpacking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was varied, with periods of sunshine, rain, and high humidity. I primarily used it to protect my topographical maps while navigating unfamiliar trails.

The case performed admirably in the wet conditions. The waterproof double zip lock seal kept my maps dry even during moderate rainfall. The clear PVC window allowed me to easily read the map without removing it from the case, which was a significant advantage. There was no need to repeatedly expose the map to the elements.

The map case was very easy to use right out of the box. The removable straps and clips provided flexible carrying and attachment options. I initially used the straps to attach it to my backpack’s shoulder strap for easy access, which worked well.

The only minor issue I encountered was that the PVC window fogged up slightly in high humidity. I had to occasionally wipe it down to maintain clear visibility. However, this was a minor inconvenience compared to the alternative of having a soaked and ruined map.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Ready Packs Nylon Map Case has held up surprisingly well. The nylon material shows no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being exposed to abrasion from branches and rocks. The seams remain intact, and the zip lock seal continues to function effectively.

The case has proven to be quite durable. It’s been tossed around in my pack, exposed to the elements, and generally subjected to the rigors of outdoor use. There is minor cosmetic wear and some fading of the nylon, but the overall structural integrity remains sound.

The Ready Packs Nylon Map Case is extremely easy to maintain. Any dirt or mud can be easily wiped off with a damp cloth. The PVC window can be cleaned with a mild soap and water solution. It is crucial to ensure the zip lock seal is free of debris to maintain its waterproof integrity.

In comparison to previous map cases I’ve used, the Ready Packs Nylon Map Case is a clear winner in terms of value and functionality. It’s not the most bombproof or feature-rich option on the market, but it provides excellent protection and usability at a fraction of the cost of higher-end alternatives. It absolutely fulfills its primary purpose and exceeds expectations given its price.

Breaking Down the Features of Ready Packs Nylon Map Case

Specifications

The Ready Packs Nylon Map Case has dimensions of 18 inches x 11.75 inches. This size is large enough to accommodate most standard-sized topographical maps. The clear PVC window allows for easy viewing of the map without removing it from the case.

The waterproof double zip lock seal provides excellent protection against rain and moisture. This is critical for keeping your maps dry and legible in wet environments. Removable straps and clips offer versatile carrying and attachment options.

The nylon construction provides a good balance of durability and lightweight performance. Nylon is known for its resistance to abrasion and tearing, making it a suitable material for outdoor gear. These specifications combined create a simple, functional, and affordable map case.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the map case’s ability to protect and present your map. The size ensures compatibility with common map formats, while the waterproof seal guarantees your map will remain usable regardless of the weather. The nylon construction adds durability, and the straps enhance portability and attachment versatility.

Performance & Functionality

The Ready Packs Nylon Map Case performs its primary job of protecting maps exceptionally well. The waterproof seal provides a reliable barrier against rain and moisture. The clear PVC window offers good visibility, allowing for easy map reading in the field.

Its strength is its simplicity and effectiveness. It doesn’t have a lot of bells and whistles, but it does what it’s supposed to do, and it does it well. The only weakness is the potential for fogging in high humidity.

The product meets and exceeds expectations, especially considering its price point. It’s a no-nonsense solution that gets the job done. It provides better protection and usability than simpler alternatives like plastic bags, without the added bulk and expense of more elaborate map cases.

Design & Ergonomics

The Ready Packs Nylon Map Case features a simple and functional design. The rectangular shape and clear window maximize visibility. The removable straps and clips provide flexible carrying options.

The build quality is adequate for the intended use. The nylon material is reasonably durable, and the seams are well-stitched. The map case is lightweight, which is a significant advantage for backpackers and hikers. There is no real learning curve involved; it’s ready to use straight out of the box.

The weight is comfortable in hand, and the attachment options are flexible enough to accommodate various carrying preferences. Overall, the design is geared towards practicality and ease of use.

Durability & Maintenance

The Ready Packs Nylon Map Case should last for several years with proper care. The nylon material is resistant to abrasion and tearing, while the waterproof seal is designed to withstand repeated use. It’s a relatively simple item, so there’s not much to break.

The map case is easy to maintain and repair. Any dirt or mud can be easily wiped off with a damp cloth. If the waterproof seal becomes damaged, it can be replaced with a similar zip lock bag or a waterproof sealant. With basic care and maintenance, this map case should provide long-lasting performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Ready Packs Nylon Map Case comes with removable straps and clips for carrying and attachment. These straps can be used to attach the map case to a backpack, belt, or other gear. There are no specific customization options available for this product.

The simple design of the Ready Packs Nylon Map Case makes it compatible with a variety of accessories. It can be used with lanyards, carabiners, or other attachment devices. You could also potentially add patches or other embellishments to the nylon material for personalization. However, the core functionality remains unchanged.

Pros and Cons of Ready Packs Nylon Map Case

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Who Should Buy Ready Packs Nylon Map Case?

The Ready Packs Nylon Map Case is perfect for hikers, backpackers, campers, and anyone who relies on paper maps for navigation in the outdoors. It’s also suitable for search and rescue personnel, surveyors, and anyone who needs to protect their maps from the elements. Pro anglers who need to navigate using charts would also benefit.

Those seeking a more elaborate map case with built-in organizational features, multiple pockets, or specialized accessories should skip this product. Also, if absolute bombproof durability is required for extreme environments, a higher-end, more robust option may be preferable.

Must-have accessories include a good quality topographical map, a compass, and a pencil for marking routes. Waterproof markers are also a valuable addition for annotating maps in wet conditions.

Conclusion on Ready Packs Nylon Map Case

The Ready Packs Nylon Map Case is a simple, functional, and affordable solution for protecting and utilizing maps in the field. Its waterproof seal, clear window, and durable nylon construction provide excellent value for the price. It is a no-frills option that prioritizes practicality and ease of use.

The price of $14.99 is more than justified for the level of protection and usability it provides. It outperforms cheaper alternatives like plastic bags and offers a more streamlined solution than more expensive, feature-rich map cases. It provides excellent value for money.

I would personally recommend the Ready Packs Nylon Map Case to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable way to protect their maps during outdoor adventures. It’s a simple yet effective tool that can make a significant difference in your navigational experience. If you value simplicity, functionality, and affordability, this map case is definitely worth considering. Go ahead and keep your maps safe.