Protect Your Drums! Case Review
Feb 23, 2023
Drums are an investment that requires proper care and maintenance to keep them in good working condition. One of the most important aspects of caring for drums is protecting them during transport. Drum cases are the ideal way to do this, and investing in good quality drum cases can save you a lot of money and headaches in the long run. In this article, we will discuss the importance of protecting your drums with good cases, the different types of drum cases available, and how to protect the upholstery of your car while transporting your drums.
The Importance of Protecting Your Drums with Good Cases
Drums are delicate instruments that can be easily damaged if not properly protected during transport. Even a small dent or scratch can affect the sound quality of the drums. This is especially true for vintage and high-end drums that require special care and maintenance to maintain their value. Investing in good quality drum cases can help protect your drums from damage and extend their lifespan.
Drum cases not only protect the drums from physical damage but also from environmental factors such as dust, humidity, and temperature changes. Moisture and humidity can cause the drums to warp or crack, while extreme temperature changes can affect the sound quality of the drums. Good quality drum cases are designed to provide protection against these environmental factors, ensuring that the drums are in good condition when you need to use them.
Different Types of Drum Cases
There are several types of drum cases available, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The most common types of drum cases include soft bags, hard cases, and rolling cases.
Soft Bags: Soft bags are the most affordable and lightweight option for transporting drums. They are usually made of heavy-duty nylon or canvas material with a soft padded interior that provides some protection against scratches and minor impacts. Soft bags are ideal for local gigs and rehearsals where the drums are not exposed to extreme conditions. They are not suitable for long-distance travel or air travel, as they offer minimal protection against physical damage and environmental factors.
Hard Cases: Hard cases are the most durable and protective option for transporting drums. They are made of sturdy materials such as polyethylene, ABS plastic, or fiberglass and are designed to withstand heavy impacts and extreme environmental conditions. Hard cases usually come with foam inserts that are custom-designed to fit the specific size and shape of the drums, providing a snug fit that keeps the drums from shifting during transport. Hard cases are ideal for long-distance travel, air travel, and touring where the drums are exposed to rough handling and extreme conditions.
Rolling Cases: Rolling cases are a convenient option for transporting multiple drums. They are designed to clip together and roll on wheels, making it easy to transport them from one location to another. Rolling cases are usually made of durable materials such as polyethylene or ABS plastic and come with foam inserts that provide protection against impacts and environmental factors. They are ideal for touring and live performances where the drums need to be transported frequently.
Top Drum Case Brands
There are several brands that make high-quality drum cases, each with its own set of features and advantages. Some of the top drum case brands include SKB, Hardcase, Gator, Protection Racket, and Ahead Armor.
SKB: SKB is a well-known brand that makes durable and high-quality drum cases. They offer a wide range of cases, including hard cases, soft bags, and rolling cases, each designed to provide maximum protection for the drums.
Hardcase: Hardcase is a popular brand that makes hard cases for drums. They are known for their high-quality and durable cases that provide excellent protection against impacts and environmental factors.
Gator: Gator is a reputable brand that offers a wide range of drum cases, including hard cases, soft bags, and rolling cases. They are known for their high-quality and affordable cases that provide excellent protection for the
- Drum Bag Sets
Drum bag sets are an affordable and convenient option for drummers who want protection for their drums without breaking the bank. They are made of durable and water-resistant materials such as nylon or polyester and usually feature padded interiors to cushion the drums. Drum bag sets are also lightweight and easy to transport, making them ideal for gigging drummers.
One popular option is the ChromaCast CC-DPB-KIT-3 Drum Bag Set. It includes five bags for snare, tom, and bass drums, as well as a cymbal bag and a stick bag. The bags are made of durable nylon and feature 10mm padding to protect your drums. The set also includes adjustable shoulder straps for easy carrying. This set is available on Amazon for $94.99.
Another option is the Kaces KDPD3 Drum Bag Set. It includes bags for a snare drum, two tom drums, and a bass drum. The bags are made of water-resistant nylon and feature 8mm padding to protect your drums. The set also includes a padded shoulder strap and carry handles for easy transport. This set is available on Amazon for $64.95.
- Trolley Case Sets
Trolley case sets are a unique and innovative option for drummers who need to transport a large number of drums. These cases are designed to clip together on a trolley for easy transport, making them perfect for touring drummers.
One popular option is the Gruv Gear Club Bag Set. It includes four trolley cases that can hold up to 10 drums, as well as a stick bag and a hardware bag. The cases are made of durable and weather-resistant nylon and feature 25mm padding to protect your drums. The trolley system is made of lightweight aluminum and includes high-quality wheels and handles for easy transport. This set is available on Amazon for $999.
Protecting Your Car Upholstery and Driving Safety Considerations
While having a good set of cases is essential for protecting your drums, it's also important to consider the impact they can have on the interior of your car. The weight and shape of drum cases can easily damage upholstery and scratch surfaces, especially during transport. Here are a few tips to protect your car and keep it looking its best:
- Use a Rug or Blanket
Placing a rug or blanket under your drum cases in the trunk of your car can help protect the upholstery and prevent scratches. It's also a good idea to wrap the drums in a soft cloth to prevent them from rubbing against each other during transport.
- Use a Cargo Liner
A cargo liner is a durable and water-resistant cover that fits into the trunk of your car. It's designed to protect the upholstery from spills, scratches, and other damage. Using a cargo liner can also make it easier to clean up any spills or debris that may accumulate during transport.
- Install a Cage Bar
In the event of an accident or sudden stop, loose items in the trunk of your car can become dangerous projectiles. To prevent your drum cases from flying forward in the event of an accident, consider installing a cage bar between the trunk and the back seat. This will help keep your gear in place and prevent it from causing injury.
Conclusion
As a drummer, your gear is your livelihood, and protecting it should be a top priority. Having a good set of cases is essential for ensuring the longevity of your drums and keeping them safe during transport. Whether you opt for hard cases, soft bags, or trolley sets, investing in quality protection will save you time, money, and stress in the long run. By taking a few extra precautions to protect your car's upholstery and ensuring the safety of your gear during transport, you can focus on what really matters - making great music.
