2013Vests forum
Storage and carrying cases for backmount stabilizer vests
13 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- Rubber maid action packer cases are inexpensive and lightweight but typically degrade after about three years of use.
- Pelican hard cases like the 1630 model provide strong protection for vests and arms but add significant weight and bulk.
- Custom ATA cases can be designed to fit specific vest models precisely and serve as both protective storage and on-set ready cases.
- Klassen soft cases have demonstrated durability over extended periods with frequent air travel when kept relatively light by storing accessories separately.
- The Flyer softcase works as a carrying case for Klassen vests when the arm is removed, and remains lightweight for shipping and flying.
- Standard off-the-shelf cases tend to be either too large for efficient packing or too small to properly accommodate the vest and arm together.
Depends on
- Solutions discussed were specific to particular vest models including Klassen classic and original DSD vests from that era.
- Durability claims for soft cases are based on individual experience over specific time periods rather than systematic testing.
- The Pelican 1650 required the vest to be stripped to minimal configuration to fit properly.
- Hard case protection comes at the cost of significantly increased weight and size, making them less practical for frequent travel.