Pelican 1535 Air Case No Foam (Black)

Few products are so time tested that they are nearly flawless. Pelican has been doing this for decades and this case is nice. I'd rate this 4.5 stars. Minor refinements could make it perfect. Expensive, but you get a case with lifetime warranty.The case is the typical waterproof, dust proof, floating, crush proof, etc. tank that Pelican is known for but a good bit lighter than previous versions. The main feature that makes this case worth it compared to competition like the Nanuk 935 is the light weight. 3 pounds is a big savings to start with in my book, at least for a carry on sized case when there is a weight limit on most airlines.The TrekPak inserts are quite pricey, but you get 10-20% of your case volume back with the provided set, and they look amazing if you are obsessed with cleanliness and organization in your cases like I am. With smart cutting, you will be able to reconfigure for multiple load outs similar to foam dividers.For cameras and lenses as is my main use, storing bodies and lenses vertically keeps items from moving and saves space. Even large DSLR bodies and medium lenses will fit this way. I see so many terrible layouts that are wastes of space that let gear bounce around by laying things down.What could be improved? These are mostly nitpicks, this case is meant to be light as possible hardened tank for gear storage.1) Latches are very loud. If I could change anything, this would be my first pick to change. They are so loud they will draw attention, and they require lots of force to operate. These should be improved after all these years!2) Obnoxious branding. I removed the branded stickers. These are for over proud people who want to be a theft target when traveling. I think Pelican should dial these down, we know the brand already. Could not remove the stupid red "Genuine Pelican Case" on the valve. Might cover it up or paint it after checking with to ensure it will not alter my warranty. I just want a black hard case that draws as little attention as possible.3) Wheels are basic, not good for much but hard floors or low carpet. Meh.4) Injection molding leaves a slight bulge on the lid. Wish they had a process that eliminated this. It is not very noticeable but still.5) I'm sure over time very slight improvements to weight and handles will be achieved but they are pretty solid.6) Hopefully materials, perhaps carbon reinforcing, could make this even stronger. The lid will compress slightly if you stand on it, but never in normal stacking. I doubt this will damage gear unless you pack too tightly regardless of how ridiculous it is.If competitors come out with a lighter case, the competition will be on again. The latches annoy me, but everything else is very close to as good as I can imagine.

I bought two of these Pelican boxes because they’re indestructible and guaranteed by the company to replace them if they break.I bought silver for my husband, because it was cheaper than black, but they sent black so they must’ve sold out on silver. Black made my husband happy, so that’s fine with me. I bought the orange one because I need to see my luggage and know it’s mine when it comes down the luggage belt. I hate orange as a color, but I can see it.The only precaution I have is because it’s a specialty box, luggage handlers think it’s video or photography equipment and in Miami, they delivered our luggage with other special items, like baby car seats. Once we realized they were over there, we were able to continue on to our hotel. We were confused at first as to why our luggage wasn’t coming out with everyone else’s from our flight. Then we saw it on the side. Just wanted folks to be aware it may cause luggage handlers to put it with the special luggage.The biggest reason I chose this size is because it truly is a domestic carry-on. It’s not a spinner, so the wheels are compacted into the design. It’s a sweet piece of luggage. We’ll probably get some larger pieces in the future. Aces!!

As with all Pelican products, this is an amazing, quality case. Sturdy, well built, and flawlessly designed. There's a reason Pelican has a reputation for being the best of the best when it comes to travel gear, and it's not purely cosmetic. If you've got something delicate, expensive, or sensitive, Pelican will keep it safe during travel or transport, make no mistake.However, be careful that you accurately measure and read the specifications for each case before you purchase to confirm your load will fit! For instance, this case, the Pelican Air 1535, will not fit something as large as, say, a fursuit. It barely fits a mens large Carhartt jacket and pair of overalls. While it is the MAXIMUM airline carry-on size, it's simply not big enough for a bulky load. It would make a great camera case, overnight "bag," or electronics transport. But if you're going to transport something large and bulky, look at the Air 1637 or the Storm iM2950.All-in-all a brilliant, well-made, rugged case that out performs all the rest. Pelican is the top of the industry when it comes to well designed, reliable cases. As my friend once said, "the best stuff comes in Pelican cases!"