Question about Leica and Pelican cases

[MarkoKovacevic]

I just bought a Pelican 1300 hard case for my Leica, and before I cut the foam I have a few questions.

1. I have a 15mm VF on my leica, which sticks up above the camera. I don't want to have to take the VF off each time, so I'm considering 2 options.

-Cut the foam deeper, so that the viewfinder has extra room, while putting the camera in bottom first.

-cut the foam more shallow, and have the camera go in lens first.

Which option would better protect the camera?

In addition, how much foam space do i need to leave between the camera and the hard part of the case, and how much do i need to leave between the lenses/cameras?

 

[zerobuttons]

.....
In addition, how much foam space do i need to leave between the camera and the hard part of the case, and how much do i need to leave between the lenses/cameras?

That will always depend on the type of foam used. In your situation, I would try contacting the manufacturer of the foam and get their advice.

 

[Merkin]

have you considered cutting the foam so that either the top plate or bottom plate goes in first, so the lenses point toward the ground while you are carrying and or rolling (unsure of the exact specs of that model just by the number) the case? More of the camera will be in contact with the foam, and it would be easier to deal with leaving the viewfinder on all the time. Also, it might free up a bit more space for lenses.

 

[Al Kaplan]

Why are you choosing a hard case? What are you protecting your camera from? What mode of transportation are you useing? Foam lined hard cases just for storage alone are a recipe for fungus. You're better off keeping your equipment where air can circulate and it gets some light. They're great for travel, though. They protect your stuff from being tossed around by baggage handlers while at the same time saying "Steal me! I have valuable things inside." That's what insurance is for, right?

Probably the best would be the original Zero Halliburton aluminum cases. Good and sturdy! Get the silver ones because the black ones will cook your stuff if left out in the sun for awhile. The thickness of the foam around things depends of how heavy the items are. For camera bodies and most lenses an inch between items should be enough. Order your foam from the case manufacturer, not an upholstery shop. Plan on replacing it every two or three years. It does deteriorate.

Right now I have three M bodies and several lenses lying unprotected on my sofa next to the 1976 original canvas Leica bag with the flap open. The Halliburton cases sit empty, lids ajar, in the spare room.

 

[MarkoKovacevic]

I'm choosing a hardcase for crush proof-ness. I'm protecting my camera from impacts, specifically from falling from a bicycle, and dropping the case while hiking. I'm not using it for storage, just transport.

 

[Rob-F]

Al is not kidding about the risk of fungus when gear is left stored in a hard case. Add to that the risk of corrosion of metal parts. Yes, I have seen it. I'm sure you have a need for the Pelican case, but I would take the camera out and leave it where air can circulate when it is just being stored.

I think I would cut the foam so the camera can be taken in and out easily and quickly. I think lens down into the foam, so that when you open the case the first thing you see is the back of the camera. That way the finder will be flush with the top of the foam, and not sticking up. Option #2, then.