I am expecting two Nanuk 910 cases later today, ordered from Amazon, both with cubed customizable foam inserts.
Pelican is my default go-to brand when it comes to high-protective tool and equipment storage cases. But I stumbled upon the Nanuk brand a couple of times, and finally decided to give them a try.
Advertisement
Like Pelican, Nanuk makes a wide range of different sized cases. Most are available with cubed foam inserts, or empty, and some are available with divider inserts.
One thing I like is that these have screw bosses along main compartment and inner lid perimeters, which might allow for easier panel or accessory installations. They do offer panel kits, but at higher pricing than I’d like to pay.
That’s one “pro” about Nanuk cases. If you want a panel for a Pelican case, you need to make your own. If you want a panel for a Nanuk case, you can buy their kit, which already comes with a polycarbonate or aluminum panel.
As mentioned, my Nanuk cases are still on the way, so I don’t have any first-hand opinions yet. But from what I’ve read, their cases are quite solid and their latches are strong.
According to the Plasticase Nanuk website, there are 21 different sizes of cases, and each and every one of them are made in Canada.
I don’t think that these cases will be better than Pelican’s, only different. It’s good to have different options available, as there are times when I can’t find the exact size of Pelican case I need, or when my needs falls between sizes.
These cases are made from “NK-7” plastic resin, a polypropylene-based material that is said to be tough, impact-resistant, and light.
They’re waterproof to IP67 standards (at least the ones I checked, like the 910), and have automatic pressure release valves.
fred says
I guess these would be good for technicians who carry sensitive instruments, for some photographers etc. Overkill and not much use for me – but a like the name – a homonym of one of my favorite protagonists in a silent movie : Nanook of the North.
Jim Felt says
Hmmm. Having dozens of Pelican, Anvil, Tundra and even USA made Halliburton camera cases here’s one I’ve never seen not heard of. And Canuck to boot.
I’m very interested in your take on the differentiation between Pelican and these (late?) comers.
I can’t easily compare sizes on this iPhone but we’ve pretty much standardized on two sizes so I’m hoping at least one is similar. As we stack them between uses.
The Anvils are all custom and cost a lot more so no comparables there.
Thanks for going first!
Stuart says
I don’t think Nanuk is new, it just seems to be a less familiar brand here.
I didn’t know about Underwater Kinetics’ UltraCases, which I only saw now when trying to look up Tundra cases.
SKB also makes hard cases, and I only learned that because I wanted to buy a panel-install kit for a small Pelican case.
That’s part of ToolGuyd – trying new or unfamiliar tools and accessories to gather information. =)
fred says
From their website:
“Plasticase initially started manufacturing plastic cases in 1984 under the name Resentel Ltd. A few years later, after the company’s ownership was restructured, Plasticase emerged …”
They go on to say:
“As the company evolved, demand for an innovative line of robust waterproof cases became evident. Plasticase moved forward with a bold response: NANUK …”
they don’t provide a timeline – or say what year the NANUK line was started – but on Amazon – they list at least one of the products (#915) with April, 26, 2010 stated as when it was first available on Amazon
Farid says
I got a small one a while back to store my telescope objective lenses. I like it a lot. Whether it it as strong as a pelican, I don’t know, but it should more than enough for my needs.
BTW, Pelican does, or used to, I should say- have professional panel service. it for custom instrument integration and very expensive. But you are correct, if you want a plain panel for DYI job, you have to go to a third party.
Chad says
I have the 910 and use it for my Taurus 9mm a few mags and have room for 2 50pack 9mm ammo.
Great sturdy case the latches are great as they have a up lock on them so they dont actually flop back down… nice feature.
I have had it a few years and its been all over the place. no issues what so ever and I would put it up there against a pelican and skb any day.
Im not a case snob as i like them all and have many various brands, I sell lots of brands and sometimes get cases as a demo and get to put them through there paces.
You will like the Nanuk !!
Matty says
I have a Nanuk case that stores first aid supplies. I love it and was originally intended as a marine first-aid kit use although it is my household first aid kit. The first two words that come to mind when thinking about these cases are: Serious and Durable.
I do not have any Pelican cases, but I think that the quality and finish on these Nanuk cases is awesome and can see how they can be used for an infinite variety of uses. I also am impressed with the range of cases on their website.
Jim Felt says
Aaah. The beauty and utility of ToolGuyd. Nanuk of the Great White North. A?
I learn something new here nearly every day.
Very cool.
fred says
If you have not seen the movie, I’d recommend it.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0013427/
The yeti says
I live in Canada. I’d never heard of em either . I’m gonna order a couple . Look like good boxes . Lots of people like pelican . I’m gonna try nanuk
Drew says
I have the 940 model and it is equally as beefy as the Pelican cases I use at work. The handle and latches are very durable and lock solidly. I have had mine about 2 years to carry my Wicked Edge in. My foam that came with it was closed cell to fit all the components, not the pluck cubes.
Alick says
Came across them in a camera store in Shanghai two years ago. Style, sizes and finish all seemed excellent. As an import in China they were unusual and very expensive. At sensible prices I would like one or two as they have sizes in between the Hardigg (now Pelican) storm cases that I use for photography gear and electrical test instruments.
lostapathy says
I have quite a bit of money tied up in pelicans and nanuk cases. I work around the gun industry.
The nanuk cases are better made, and have much nicer latches than the pelicans. I know of a lot of people who have switched from pelican to nanuk, but nobody seems to go the other way.
Jim Felt says
Good to hear. I’m looking to upgrade a few hard cases and now that I know these exist I’ll try a couple.
Thx.