Pelican cases have been the gold standard for protective cases for decades, trusted by professionals and enthusiasts alike to safeguard their valuable equipment. However, their premium quality and reputation come at a cost – literally. Pelican cases are often priced significantly higher than their competitors, leaving many to wonder: why is Pelican case so expensive?
Unparalleled Quality and Durability
One of the primary reasons Pelican cases are so expensive is their exceptional quality and durability. Pelican uses only the highest-grade materials, such as ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) and stainless steel, to construct their cases. These materials provide unparalleled strength, rigidity, and resistance to impact, ensuring that the contents of the case are protected from even the most extreme conditions.
Manufacturing Process
The manufacturing process of Pelican cases is also a significant factor in their high price. Pelican uses a proprietary process called “injection molding,” which involves injecting molten plastic into a mold to create the case’s shell. This process allows for precise control over the case’s shape, size, and material properties, resulting in a product that is both incredibly strong and remarkably lightweight.
Attention to Detail
Another reason Pelican cases are so expensive is the attention to detail that goes into their design and construction. Every aspect of the case, from the latches and hinges to the foam inserts and gaskets, is carefully engineered to provide maximum protection and functionality. This level of attention to detail requires significant investment in research and development, testing, and quality control, which is reflected in the final product’s price.
Waterproof and Airtight Seal
Pelican cases are famous for their waterproof and airtight seal, which is achieved through the use of a proprietary gasket system. This system, known as the “Pelican O-Ring,” is designed to provide a secure seal even in the most extreme conditions, such as underwater or in high-altitude environments. The O-Ring is made from a specialized rubber compound that is resistant to degradation from exposure to saltwater, chemicals, and extreme temperatures.
Pressure Equalization Valve
In addition to the O-Ring, Pelican cases also feature a pressure equalization valve, which allows air to enter or exit the case as needed to maintain a consistent internal pressure. This valve is designed to prevent the case from becoming over-pressurized or under-pressurized, which can cause damage to the contents or compromise the case’s seal.
Customization and Configuration Options
Pelican cases are available in a wide range of sizes and configurations, allowing users to customize their case to meet their specific needs. This level of customization requires significant investment in tooling and manufacturing, which is reflected in the final product’s price.
Custom Foam Inserts
One of the most popular customization options for Pelican cases is custom foam inserts. These inserts are designed to provide a precise fit for specific equipment, such as cameras, laptops, or medical devices. Custom foam inserts require significant investment in design and manufacturing, which can add to the overall cost of the case.
Specialized Cases
Pelican also offers a range of specialized cases designed for specific industries or applications, such as military, law enforcement, or medical. These cases often require additional features and functionality, such as reinforced shells, specialized latches, or integrated electronics. The development and manufacturing of these specialized cases require significant investment in research and development, testing, and quality control, which is reflected in the final product’s price.
Warranty and Support
Pelican cases are backed by a comprehensive warranty and support program, which provides users with peace of mind and protection for their investment. The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one year, and Pelican also offers a range of support services, including repair and maintenance, to help users get the most out of their case.
Repair and Maintenance
Pelican offers a range of repair and maintenance services to help users extend the life of their case. These services include repair of damaged shells, replacement of worn-out parts, and refurbishment of used cases. The cost of these services is often significantly lower than the cost of purchasing a new case, making them a cost-effective option for users who want to get the most out of their investment.
Customer Support
Pelican also offers a range of customer support services, including phone and email support, to help users with any questions or issues they may have. The customer support team is available to provide assistance with everything from product selection to troubleshooting and repair.
In conclusion, the high price of Pelican cases is a reflection of their exceptional quality, durability, and functionality. While the cost may seem prohibitive to some, the benefits of owning a Pelican case far outweigh the costs. Whether you’re a professional or enthusiast, a Pelican case is a worthwhile investment that will provide you with years of reliable service and protection for your valuable equipment.
What makes Pelican cases so expensive?
Pelican cases are made from high-quality materials that provide exceptional durability and protection. The cases are typically made from ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, which is a type of plastic that is extremely resistant to impact and abrasion. This material is more expensive than the materials used in other cases, but it provides a level of protection that is unmatched by other brands.
In addition to the high-quality materials, Pelican cases are also designed with a focus on precision engineering. The cases are designed to be airtight and watertight, with a secure latching system that ensures the contents are protected from the elements. This attention to detail and commitment to quality requires a significant investment in design, testing, and manufacturing, which is reflected in the final price of the case.
Are Pelican cases worth the high price?
For many professionals and enthusiasts, Pelican cases are worth the high price. The cases provide a level of protection that is unmatched by other brands, and they are designed to withstand the rigors of heavy use. Whether you’re a photographer, a musician, or a first responder, a Pelican case can provide peace of mind and protect your valuable equipment from damage.
In addition to the protection they provide, Pelican cases are also designed to be durable and long-lasting. With proper care, a Pelican case can last for many years, providing a lifetime of protection for your equipment. While the initial cost may be higher than other cases, the long-term value and durability of a Pelican case make it a worthwhile investment for many users.
What is the typical price range for a Pelican case?
The typical price range for a Pelican case can vary widely, depending on the size and features of the case. Small cases that are designed to protect a single item, such as a camera or a phone, can start at around $50-$100. Larger cases that are designed to protect multiple items, such as a laptop or a musical instrument, can cost $200-$500 or more.
The largest and most feature-rich cases, such as those designed for military or industrial use, can cost $1,000 or more. These cases are designed to provide extreme protection and durability, and they are often used in harsh environments where the equipment is subject to heavy use and extreme conditions.
How do Pelican cases compare to other protective cases?
Pelican cases are generally considered to be among the most protective and durable cases available. They are designed to provide a high level of protection against impact, water, and dust, and they are often used in harsh environments where other cases may not be able to withstand the conditions.
Compared to other cases, Pelican cases are often more expensive, but they provide a level of protection and durability that is unmatched by other brands. Other cases may be lighter or more compact, but they may not provide the same level of protection as a Pelican case. For users who need extreme protection and durability, a Pelican case is often the best choice.
Can I customize a Pelican case to fit my specific needs?
Yes, Pelican cases can be customized to fit your specific needs. Pelican offers a range of customization options, including custom foam inserts, dividers, and other accessories. These options allow you to tailor the case to fit your specific equipment and needs.
In addition to the standard customization options, Pelican also offers a range of specialty cases that are designed for specific industries or applications. For example, Pelican offers cases that are designed specifically for photography, music, or first response applications. These cases are designed to meet the unique needs of each industry, and they can be customized to fit your specific requirements.
Is the high price of a Pelican case justified by the quality and durability?
For many users, the high price of a Pelican case is justified by the quality and durability of the case. Pelican cases are designed to provide a high level of protection and durability, and they are often used in harsh environments where other cases may not be able to withstand the conditions.
While the initial cost of a Pelican case may be higher than other cases, the long-term value and durability of the case make it a worthwhile investment for many users. With proper care, a Pelican case can last for many years, providing a lifetime of protection for your equipment. For users who need extreme protection and durability, the high price of a Pelican case is often justified by the quality and durability of the case.