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Hard Cases

(320 products)

Protect your gear anywhere it travels. Explore our hard cases — crushproof, watertight, and foam-lined — built to keep cameras, lenses, drones, and lighting safe in transit and storage.

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Hard Cases for Cameras, Lenses & Pro Gear

A great hard case is the difference between gear that arrives ready to shoot and gear that arrives in pieces. Impulse Cameras stocks a curated selection of hard-shell protective cases for cameras, lenses, drones, audio equipment, and production accessories. Whether you need waterproof protection for a cross-country flight or a rugged case for daily transport on location, you'll find the right solution here at our Milwaukee store.

Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Hard Case

IP Rating & Waterproofing

Look for cases rated IP67 — fully dustproof and waterproof to at least one meter. Brands like Pelican, SKB, and Nanuk use pressure-equalization valves and double-wall gaskets so pressure changes during air travel won't pop the lid. If you're shooting in rain, near water, or on dusty desert locations, a genuine waterproof rating is non-negotiable.

Foam vs. Padded Dividers

Pick-and-pull foam lets you custom-fit a case to an oddly shaped kit permanently — ideal when your loadout doesn't change. Padded divider systems (like those used in Pelican 1510 carry-ons) are reconfigurable, so one case can hold a camera body and lenses today and a drone tomorrow. TrekPak divider inserts offer a hybrid: rigid panel walls with tool-free reconfiguration.

Airline Carry-On vs. Check-In Sizing

The Pelican 1510 and SKB 2i-2011-7B are designed to meet major airline carry-on size limits. For large cinema rigs, full strobe kits, or multiple camera bodies, you'll need check-in-sized cases — factor in airline weight limits and add TSA-approved locks. Many shooters carry the camera body on board and check lenses and accessories separately.

Wheels, Handles & Stacking

Rolling cases reduce fatigue on long hauls through airports. Look for polyurethane wheels that survive cobblestones and rough tarmac. Stacking ridges let multiple cases lock together on a cart. Retractable handles should have at least two height positions for comfortable pulling.

What size hard case fits a mirrorless body with two lenses?

A mid-size case like the Pelican 1510 or Nanuk 935 typically fits one mirrorless body with grip attached plus two or three mid-size zoom lenses with room for a charger and memory cards. For a body with a 70-200mm f/2.8 attached, step up to a 1520 or 940-size case to ensure nothing is compressed.

Are Pelican cases TSA-approved for air travel?

Pelican cases are accepted on airlines worldwide, and many smaller sizes are carry-on compliant. TSA-approved locks let screeners open the case without destroying the latches. Pelican's built-in automatic pressure-equalization valve prevents the lid from bulging at altitude.

Can I use a hard case for drone transport?

Yes — and it's highly recommended. Hard cases protect propellers and gimbals from bending during transit. Many third-party cases come with pre-cut foam inserts sized for popular drones like the DJI Air 3 or Mavic 3 series. Custom foam cutouts are easy to order or DIY with an electric carving knife.

What's the difference between Pelican and Nanuk cases?

Both are excellent, military-grade waterproof cases. Pelican is the industry standard with the widest accessory ecosystem and longest track record. Nanuk cases use a proprietary POWERCLAW latching system that many users find easier to open one-handed, and they offer a slightly different foam density. Either brand will protect your gear — it often comes down to preference and the specific interior dimensions you need.

Do you sell replacement foam inserts?

Yes. We carry replacement foam, pick-n-pluck foam blocks, and TrekPak divider kits for popular Pelican and SKB case sizes. You can also bring your case into our Milwaukee store and we'll help you design a custom foam layout for your specific gear.

Can I ship fragile equipment in a hard case?

Hard cases are ideal for shipping fragile gear. Make sure your foam provides at least 2 inches of cushioning on all sides, and declare the contents as fragile. For especially valuable gear, consider adding bubble wrap around lenses before placing them in the foam cutouts.

Visit Us in Milwaukee — Stop in to see our hard case selection in person, or email sales@impulsemke.com for custom foam layout advice and bulk case pricing.

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