UW Kinetics Dry Travel Case

When a huge box arrived in my office from Underwater Kinetics, I was a little surprised. That's one big dive light, I thought. I was even more surprised when I opened the box and found a bright yellow dry case.Always skeptical, I thought, This company makes underwater lights. Why branch into cases?Soon the answer became obvious: A good underwater light needs to have a reliable, rugged outer shell and a perfect sealing O-ring system. So does a good dry case. UK's new model 822 and 827 traveling dry cases do just that.The model 822 and 827 are identical except for length: the 822 is 22 inches long and the 827 is (you guessed it) 27. They are made from ABS plastic, and UK claims they will withstand being dropped from a height of 7 feet onto concrete. While I didn't verify this claim, the case did endure baggage handlers at Orlando, Miami and Cayman airports with nary a bruise.The lid hinge runs the entire length of the case. This keeps the lid and case aligned, ensuring a good O-ring seal. The hinge pin is removable, so the lid can be fully detached.The closure system is substantial as well. Six twist-down latches keep the case waterproof even when submerged to one meter.It has large, inline-skate-style wheels that are smooth on any surface and a retractable handle. The handle extended high enough so tall people will be comfortable when walking. When it's not needed, the handle locks down.The case also has two spring-loaded, rubber-padded steel carry handles for lifting.The one thing UK seems to have missed is feet opposite the wheels for parking the case upright. The wheels lift the one edge of the case about 1 inch off the ground. But there are no feet to offset the wheels. Thus, the case rests at about a 20-degree angle. While the case is certainly not prone to tipping over on its own, it is somewhat more susceptible to tipping if bumped. In crowded airports, that's not uncommon. Would I let this minor shortcoming stop me from buying this case? Absolutely not. Summary: The model 822 and 827 dry cases from Underwater Kinetics are thoughtfully designed, solidly constructed and suitable for transporting photo gear, electronics or other delicate items. The cases have good rolling wheels and nice features. The cases can be slightly unstable when upright, but it's a minor problem. They are available in black or yellow. Pluck foam-fill padding is available for $44. MSRP: model 822 - $192, model 827 - $238. For more information on UK products, click onto UK's home page below.

	Paul Humann; he'd help me ID fish
	Cathy Church; she'd help me set up the perfect shot
	Alan Rebbe; we'd have the wildest dive adventures
	Teddy Tucker; I want to find treasure!
	Richie Kohler; wrecks are where it's at.

Already a member? Log in here

Username:
Password:

Name
Email