RIP my trusty ProTec gig bag... Time to upgrade to one with wheels
First of all, I would like to tip my hat to my former trumpet gig bag.
I bought it when I was in college over 20 years ago. At the time I was hauling around a lot of books, gear and luggage. And all that weight took a toll on my wrists. I had some wicked tendonitis.
I switched to a lightweight Protec gig bag with a shoulder strap.
It has worked great for me for 20 years and is easier to carry than a regular hard case. But there are a few things that could be better.
I needed more space to carry stuff like music, maybe a stand, my wallet and keys and a water bottle and chap stick and valve oil, etc.
Although I liked how lightweight it was, it didn't offer a lot of protection when I was travelling on a plane or in my car.
And speaking of travelling by plane, I needed it to have wheels and meet the travel requirements.
With that in mind, here is the upgrade that I am looking at...
Info on the upgraded model
Traveling by air or your local club date is a breeze with the attached wheels and telescoping handle. The Protec PB-301VAX trumpet combo case is the result of a yearlong design
collaboration with the famed trumpeter, Mike Vax. After spending years on the road as a performer, Mike has learned first-hand what features a professional musician needs and appreciates. With a compact exterior dimension of 22" x 12-1/2" x 9" inches, this trumpet case will comply with most airline regulations. The exterior pocket design holds sheet music and allows for secure attachment of the Protec M-400 Mute Bag (sold separately). Interior layout fits many musical instruments. One section of the case fits a Bb trumpet or C trumpet, and the second section of the case fits a flugelhorn, cornet, and a Eb/D trumpet or piccolo trumpet. Wood shell construction. Storage area for two mouthpieces. Storage area for two instruments with adjustable padded separator with Velcro attachment. Two adjustable sizing blocks to secure smaller trumpets. 1680 gauge ballistic nylon exterior; water and abrasion resistant. Large exterior sheet music pocket with built-in organizer. D-ring to clip on optional mute bag. Attached wheels and telescoping handle.
What about you? What kind of case do you use and why do you like it? (Let me know in the comments.)