Pelican Air 1745 Bow Case Review

The Truth About Using the Pelican Air 1745 Bow Case

As a gear and equipment specialist with over a decade of experience navigating diverse environments—from the dusty workshop and sterile lab to the rugged outdoors and demanding field—I approach every piece of equipment with a critical, real-world lens. My search for a robust, yet manageable, solution for transporting my compound bow led me to the Pelican Air 1745 Bow Case. This wasn’t a casual purchase; it was born out of necessity after a particularly harrowing travel experience with a less-than-ideal setup that left my equipment vulnerable. I needed something that offered uncompromising protection without adding excessive weight, a common trade-off in the world of protective cases. My initial impression upon unboxing this Pelican case was one of solid engineering, a feeling that the company’s reputation for durability was indeed justified. While I briefly considered other brands known for their hard cases, Pelican’s specific focus on lightweight, yet impact-resistant, construction for travel tipped the scales. My first reaction was a sense of quiet confidence, a feeling that my valuable archery equipment would finally have the sanctuary it deserved.

Real-World Testing: Putting Pelican Air 1745 Bow Case to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing involved packing my compound bow, complete with a sight, quiver, and release aid, into the Pelican Air 1745 Bow Case. This took place on my workbench in the workshop, a controlled environment before any actual travel. The interior’s modular system allowed for a customizable fit, though it required some adjustment to ensure everything was snug. During this first packing, I noticed the weight was surprisingly manageable for its size, a definite plus. The push-button latches clicked satisfyingly into place, reinforcing the feeling of a secure seal. I didn’t encounter any immediate issues, but the sheer number of adjustment points for the internal tie-downs did mean a few minutes of fiddling to achieve the optimal hold for my specific bow.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months, this bow case has accompanied me on numerous trips, including a weekend archery tournament and several long drives to remote shooting locations. Its performance in varied conditions, from sitting in the back of a truck during a light rain shower to being jostled in airline cargo holds, has been impressive. The Pelican Air 1745 Bow Case has consistently maintained its protective integrity. There are no visible signs of cracks or weakening in the HPX resin, and the seals remain tight, keeping out dust and moisture effectively. Maintenance has been minimal; an occasional wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed. Compared to other bow cases I’ve used, including bulkier, less technologically advanced models, this Pelican case stands out for its blend of lightweight construction and substantial protection. It has certainly outperformed budget options and rivals premium alternatives in terms of ease of transport.

Breaking Down the Features of Pelican Air 1745 Bow Case

Specifications

The Pelican Air 1745 Bow Case boasts an impressive array of specifications designed for maximum protection and portability. Its interior dimensions of 44.0″ x 16.8″ x 7.9″ provide ample space for most compound bows, while the exterior dimensions measure 46.7″ x 19.4″ x 8.7″. The case is constructed from Pelican’s proprietary lightweight HPX resin, a material engineered for exceptional crushproof, dustproof, and watertight capabilities, significantly reducing its weight by up to 40% compared to competitor models. This lighter weight is a critical advantage, minimizing additional travel expenses and making it easier to manage.

Security is paramount, with six heavy-duty, push-button latches securing the case. Among these are two TSA-approved locking push-button latches, offering peace of mind during air travel, and four stainless steel padlock hasps for added security. The case also features integrated wheels for easy transit, a feature that significantly eases the burden of transporting a large case. Internally, the modular storage system includes integrated internal tie-down points to firmly secure the bow. The lid design offers deep storage space for accessories, and the MOLLE channels on the lid and base provide a highly adaptable organization system. The High Density foam lining further enhances protection for valuable gear.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function—protecting a valuable compound bow—the Pelican Air 1745 Bow Case performs exceptionally well. The rigid exterior shell and the thoughtful interior organization system work in concert to keep the bow stable and shielded from impacts. During transit, the bow remained securely in place, with no shifting or rattling that could indicate movement within the case. The crushproof and watertight design proved its worth on a couple of occasions where the case was exposed to inclement weather, offering complete reassurance that the contents were safe and dry.

The strengths of this case lie in its robust construction and the intelligent use of lightweight materials. The push-button latches are both secure and relatively easy to operate, even with gloves on. The integrated wheels are a godsend, transforming the experience of moving the case from a struggle to a simple pull. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly concerning the internal organization. While the MOLLE system offers flexibility, it can also lead to some components feeling less secure if not meticulously attached, as noted in user feedback. The arrow holders, for instance, can shift if not carefully secured.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Pelican Air 1745 Bow Case is a testament to Pelican’s commitment to functional engineering. The HPX resin construction not only provides superior protection but also results in a surprisingly light case for its size. The textured exterior offers a good grip, and the placement of the handles and wheels is ergonomically sound. Opening and closing the six heavy-duty latches is straightforward, and the audible click provides positive feedback.

The interior’s modularity is a double-edged sword. While it allows for significant customization to fit various bow models and accessory kits, it does require more effort to achieve a truly “locked-in” feel for all components. The MOLLE channels, while versatile, can create some play in mounted accessories. The deep lid is a practical design choice, offering generous space for quivers, stabilizers, tools, and other essential archery gear. The overall feel of the case is one of rugged dependability, built to withstand the rigors of travel and outdoor use.

Durability & Maintenance

Given Pelican’s reputation, the Pelican Air 1745 Bow Case is undoubtedly built for longevity. The HPX resin is known for its extreme durability and resistance to impact, suggesting it will withstand years of regular use, travel, and potential abuse. The stainless steel padlock hasps and robust latches are also designed for extended wear and tear.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. The smooth exterior surface can be easily wiped clean of dirt and grime. The watertight seals should be inspected periodically for any debris that might compromise their integrity, but otherwise require no special attention. I haven’t encountered any significant wear or tear after extensive use, which is promising. Potential failure points might arise from the internal organization system if heavily stressed, but the core structure of the case itself seems nearly indestructible.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Pelican Air 1745 Bow Case comes with a set of high-density foam lining which is cut to accommodate a bow and accessories. The true customization comes from the modular storage system that utilizes MOLLE channels on both the lid and the base of the case. This allows users to attach various pouches, arrow holders, and tool organizers to create a personalized layout.

While the case itself doesn’t come with a vast array of additional accessories beyond the foam, its MOLLE system is compatible with a wide range of standard MOLLE-compatible pouches available from other manufacturers. This flexibility means users can easily expand the case’s storage capabilities to suit their specific needs, whether it’s for carrying multiple quivers, a comprehensive tool kit, or extra arrow tubes. The inclusion of two TSA-approved locking push-button latches is a particularly valuable feature for air travelers.

Pros and Cons of Pelican Air 1745 Bow Case

Who Should Buy Pelican Air 1745 Bow Case?

The Pelican Air 1745 Bow Case is an excellent choice for serious archers who frequently travel, whether for tournaments, hunting trips, or long-distance practice sessions. It’s ideal for those who own high-value compound bows and demand the highest level of protection against the elements and impact. This case is also well-suited for individuals who appreciate a lightweight yet robust carrying solution, making it easier to manage during airports or outdoor excursions.

Those who need a no-frills, basic bow carrier might find the price point and organizational complexity a bit much. It’s also perhaps overkill for someone who only transports their bow a short distance to a local range infrequently. For optimal use, I’d strongly recommend investing in a few quality MOLLE-compatible pouches to fully leverage the internal organization system and ensure accessories like quivers and tool kits are securely stowed.

Conclusion on Pelican Air 1745 Bow Case

The Pelican Air 1745 Bow Case is, without question, a premium solution for protecting your archery equipment during transit. Its blend of lightweight durability and robust security features, including the Watertight and crushproof design, makes it a standout product in a crowded market. The ease of transport, thanks to its integrated wheels and lighter-than-expected weight for its size, significantly enhances the travel experience. While the internal organizational system, particularly the MOLLE channels, offers great flexibility, it does demand careful attention to ensure all components remain perfectly secure during rough handling. For the archer who prioritizes unwavering protection and ease of travel for their expensive compound bow, the Pelican Air 1745 Bow Case is a worthwhile investment that delivers on its promise. I would readily recommend it to any serious archer who finds themselves regularly moving their gear.