Cheap case for a huge camera

July 7, 2007 7:54 AM

Suggestions, please, for a storage/carry case for a big, heavy medium format camera system that won't cost more than the camera did.

I recently acquired a Mamiya RB67 system relatively cheaply. The right way of storing it is probably a $300+ Pelican case, which might be a theft magnet. The case needn't be particularly totable, just be a safe way of moving the components about in a car with adequate shock/moisture protection.

posted by scruss to sports, hobbies, & recreation (8 comments total)

How big is it? Dimensionally, I mean? Pelican cases aren't really THAT expensive.
posted by SpecialK at 8:04 AM on July 7, 2007

Plastic pistol cases are available at Walmart. There are usually a variety of sizes.
posted by Gungho at 9:21 AM on July 7, 2007

I use this for my cameras, just add foam

ALUMINUM TOOL CASE
posted by raildr at 9:42 AM on July 7, 2007

I had an RB67. I just used a regular padded camera bag that had padded partitions, held in place by velcro. I laid out the components and put the padding where it needed to go. Even if you use 2 cases, one for the camera and backs, and one for the lenses, you can easily spend less than $100.

I have also used a backpack for camera gear, putting foam or cloth between components. It looks nothing like a camera bag, which helps avoid temptation of theft.

Of course there are inexpensive aluminum cases with customizable foam, but it sounds like you are trying to avoid the "look at me, I am valuable, please steal me" thing.

Keep in mind also that the RB67 is built like a tank. You want to protect it from scratches, but unless you are going to be tossing the case around, or checking it as luggage, it doesn't need to be bulletproof. Heck, I have 30 year old 35mm cameras that never see the inside of case.

Also, check if you have a local used camera store. They might have some cases and bags for pennies on the dollar.

Congrats on your bargain! That's one of the great things about the prevalence of digital: those of us who still use film can get great bargains.
posted by The Deej at 9:56 AM on July 7, 2007

You must be looking at the wrong Pelican cases... I have a GIANT case that holds 3 large monolights plus accessories and it was only $160-ish I believe. It would fit multiple RZ67's setups even if you have literally boxes of accessories. I have a couple of smaller ones for camera equipment and there were all around $100.

And as someone who has used many kinds of cases, you won't be dissapointed with buying a Pelican - they're indestructible.
posted by bradbane at 10:04 AM on July 7, 2007

Cut the right foam to fit any case.
posted by Brian B. at 10:17 AM on July 7, 2007

The gun case idea is a good one, unfortunately most cases are meant for objects that are only a few inches thick and might not offer you the depth you need.

I keep my camera in a Pelican, fortunately I got it from a friend of mine, so I got it really cheap, but I've been using them for years, and had I not gotten a good deal, I would have sucked it up and paid full price. For protecting your gear, there just ain't anything better.

Though when I actually go out to shoot, I use a soft camera bag. The Pelican is just for storage and transport. The nice thing is though, if you through a bunch of gaffer tape on it, and scratch it up a bit, it looks a lot less like something that contains super-expensive gear.
posted by quin at 5:00 PM on July 7, 2007

I have a bunch of big ass camera systems (4x5, 6x9, 6x6 etc) and the same approach for them all... go into camera store, find the smallest backpack that fits the system, and buy it. I've had good luck with Lowepro. Pelican is bombproof but expensive and not very convenient.
posted by unSane at 9:25 PM on July 7, 2007