Hard-shell cases or soft bags: Which do you need?
You will have to figure out whether you want to go for a hard-shelled case or a soft-cased bag based on your requirements. Drum bags are fairly common, and they also happen to be the least expensive. You will find that drum bags are usually made with thick fabrics like nylon. They zip around the drum securing it in place. Since the weight of drum bags tend to be lesser, you will find it easier to carry them.
However, although drum bags are convenient to carry and store, they do not offer the best protection.
On the other hand, hard cases are designed to offer you better protection. They are made either with fiber or plastic. Good hard cases tend to have lined interiors so that the drum is safe and secure. The plastic outer shell is responsible for making the structure of the case rigid, but you should make sure that the interiors have sufficient padding or lining. However, hard cases tend to be bulky and are difficult to store when they are not in use.
If you do not want to take any risk, you can go for a road case or a hardware case. These cases are tough and come with wheels to increase the portability of the drums. You will be able to keep your drums safe at all times because these cases are made with extra-tough materials. They are great if you travel long distances frequently or if you have an expensive drum set.
Case or bag dimensions: consider the size of your drums
You must take the size of the drum case or bag as a deciding factor because your drums should be able to fit into the case that you buy. The fit of the drums inside the bag should be snug and secure, but not overly so. The drums should not be cramped for space, as that will increase the risk of them breaking. Some cases are designed to fit the shape of your drums. They can prevent the instrument from moving around when you are carrying the case. If you prioritize portability, you should ensure that the size of the case or the bag is manageable and practical for you to carry.
Durable materials that will protect your drums
The ultimate purpose served by a drum case or bag is to offer protection to your drums. It should be made with a strong and durable material that will be able to bear the brunt of the impact and adverse weather conditions. A hard case is a better option if you want to carry the drums around as you are walking on the road. Hard cases are made of strong outer materials that are complemented by plush interior padding. The common materials used to make hard cases are fiber or plastic.
Most popular models have exteriors made with either polyethylene plastic or hardened fiberboard. Soft cases made with nylon can also offer a significant amount of protection.
Is case or bag weight important?
The weight of the case or the bag is not the ultimate deciding factor. While that is true, you also have considered the role played by weight when it comes to portability. You will also have to carry the bag or case manually at some point, and you would not want to easily get tired then. If the bag/case is very heavy, your arms will tire out soon, and you might not even feel like playing and practicing after that. You should ideally invest in a case/bag that is light and manageable. However, if you want something heavier and sturdier, then you should go for a hard-shell model that has integrated wheels.
Where do you keep the hardware and accessories?
In order to be a good drummer, you need to have all your accessories and hardware in order. You cannot afford to lose them when you are traveling or returning from practice. Some drummers invest in an extra drum case where they store all their drumming accessories. However, you can go the extra mile and opt for drum hardware cases like the Gator Cases Protechtor Series Cart for Drum Hardware or the Ahead Armor Drum Set Case where you will be able to fit everything you need in an organized manner. Some drum cases and bags also come with several exterior accessory pockets, each designed to hold certain things. You will be able to store everything neatly so that nothing is lost. The Multi-Tom Drum Bag with Wheels by Protec comes with many such pockets, making it easier for you to keep track of all your drumming accessories.
Tips and tricks
There are certain tips and tricks that will make it easier for you to keep your drum case or bag in good shape.
- Make sure that you deep clean the case/bag once a month. Dust accumulation can be terrible for your drums, so it is necessary that you clean the insides of the case to prevent any contamination.
- Use the drum case/bag to carry extra and spare accessories that you might need at any point when you are touring.
- Take care of your electronics. Do not just rely on the bag/case to provide protection.
- Store the drum bag/case in a cool, dark, and clean place when it is not in use. This way, it will retain all its features.