If you’re a bassist who requires your instrument to survive and perform under less than ideal situations, you simply need a good-quality hardshell bass case. Though the comfort and lightweight convenience of gig bags are definitely appealing, they are just not built to handle the rigors of the road and the abuse of regular gigging. A hard case, on the other hand, is engineered from the ground up to take a pounding while keeping your precious 4-, 5-, or 6-string safe from environmental hazards, falls, and less than courteous baggage handlers.
Below, we’ve compiled a bit about the different types of hard cases. Hopefully it will shed some light on what features are most important to your situation, the strengths and weaknesses of each case, and why we think these are the best bass guitar hard cases available today.
Best Bass Guitar Cases: Fitted vs. Universal Cases
All hardshell bass cases fit into one of two categories: fitted or universal. Like most options in life, there are benefits and compromises to both designs. A custom-fitted bass case hugs your instrument’s every curve and keeps it from moving around in its new digs. Achieving this means each fitted case is specifically crafted to cradle a certain model of instrument and isn’t likely to work with others. If you’re looking for a case for a single bass and won’t need to put any other bass in it, a fitted bass case is your best bet. A universal-fit case, on the other hand, may not hold your axe in a satiny-iron grip, but it allows you to use it for a wide variety of instruments. If you have an arsenal of basses but only want to keep a case or two around, go this route.
Fitted:
Universal:
Best Bass Guitar Cases: Custom Brand Cases
If you like the security and peace of mind that comes with a fitted case, you might want to stay with your instrument’s own brand. Many bass luthiers and manufacturers offer cases that are precisely designed for their instruments. And who knows what an instrument needs better than the people who created it? On top of that, many basses that feature an exotic shape or a pointy heavy metal pedigree, or that are of the acoustic-electric variety, require a case design that can be very difficult to find anywhere other than from the original manufacturer.
Best Bass Guitar Cases: Molded Soft Cases
Blurring the lines between hard cases and gig bags are molded soft cases. Usually constructed from a material called polyfoam, molded soft cases offer much better protection than gig bags and are only a bit heavier. When it comes to balancing convenience with protection, these cases are hard to beat. But if you require your case to stand up to flights, band vans, or rough environmental conditions, you’ll want to stick with a hard case.
Best Bass Guitar Cases: Flight Cases
For ultimate protection, take a look through our bass guitar flight cases. These come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and weights but are all built to stand up against the most unsettling of situations, especially a flight in the belly of an airplane. Companies such as SKB and Gator have created multiple lines of these heavy-duty options, many even offering TSA (Transportation Security Administration) appointments that make travel easier. While these cases are bulkier and less economical than some options, when the situation calls for it, you’ll be glad your instrument is safe and sound inside one.
Never forget the importance of presentation
Now that the pragmatic stuff is out of the way, there’s also something to getting your hands on a great-looking hardshell case that makes you want to see what’s inside. You may not want to beat these options up on the road, but when you’re pulling your vintage P Bass or custom Fodera out to have a play, one of these tweed or cream Tolex cases makes the experience that much more enjoyable.
Additional appointments you may be looking for
While protection of your beloved bass is the most important consideration when choosing a hard case, some models offer a few other options you might want to consider. Because flight cases can be bulky and heavy, some offer wheels and extendable handles for easy cartage. Rugged, TSA-approved latches are always going to save you time and headaches when traversing a busy airport. Heading out on a boat? Take a look at our selection of military-grade, waterproof options. And Gator even offers cases with built-in LED lights, making backstage situations much easier.
If you’re a musician who puts your bass in harm’s way (and yes, keeping it on a stand at home is in harm’s way), then a good-quality hardshell case is a must. Thankfully, with so many options out there, there’s sure to be a case that is the perfect fit for your application and your instrument. If you still have questions, call your Sales Engineer at (800) 222-4700. They’d love to hear from you and help you. They’ll listen while you walk them through your needs to make sure your bass gets where it’s going safe and in style.
