Pelican 1170 Vs. 1200: The Battle of the Cases

You’re all set for your next adventure or job that requires some heavy-duty protection for your valuables. You’ve heard about the legendary Pelican cases, but now you’re stuck. The Pelican 1170 and 1200 are both fantastic choices, but which one should you choose? 

In this comprehensive article, we’ll walk you through the showdown of Pelican 1170 vs 1200, delving into their features, pros and cons, and answering some of the most frequently asked questions. So, buckle up, and let’s get started.

A Brief Comparison Table

FeaturePelican 1170Pelican 1200
Exterior Dimensions11.64″ x 8.34″ x 3.78″10.62″ x 9.68″ x 4.87″
Interior Dimensions10.54″ x 6.04″ x 3.16″9.25″ x 7.12″ x 4.12″
Weight2.08 lbs3.47 lbs
Foam InsertPick N PluckPick N Pluck
Color OptionsMultiple availableMultiple available
WaterproofYesYes
CrushproofYesYes
Padlock ProtectorStainless steelStainless steel
Price RangeSlightly cheaper than 1200Slightly more expensive
Best ForSmall items, lightweightLarger items, versatility

Pelican 1170: The Smaller, Yet Mighty Contender

Pelican 1170
Pelican 1170

The Pelican 1170 is the smaller of the two cases, but don’t let its size fool you. This case is just as tough as its larger counterpart. Designed with a rugged, crushproof exterior and a watertight seal, this case is the perfect choice for protecting your small, precious items.

Pros of the Pelican 1170

  • Compact Size

The Pelican 1170 measures 11.64″ x 8.34″ x 3.78″, making it the perfect fit for small items, such as a DSLR camera, a handgun, or other delicate equipment.

  • Lightweight

Weighing in at just 2.08 lbs, the 1170 is easy to carry and doesn’t add extra bulk to your gear.

  • Customizable Foam

The case comes with Pick N Pluck foam, allowing you to create a custom fit for your valuable items.

  • Color Options

The 1170 is available in a variety of colors, so you can choose the one that best suits your personality or needs.

Cons of the Pelican 1170

  • Limited Space

Due to its compact size, the 1170 may not be suitable for those with larger equipment or multiple items to store.

  • Price

Although smaller, the 1170 is not significantly cheaper than the 1200, which could be a downside for budget-conscious buyers.

Pelican 1200: The Larger, More Spacious Challenger

Pelican 1200
Pelican 1200

The Pelican 1200 is the bigger sibling to the 1170, offering more space to store and protect your valuables. This case boasts the same rugged exterior and watertight seal that you’ve come to expect from Pelican products, making it an excellent option for those who require a bit more room.

Pros of the Pelican 1200

  • Spacious Interior

The Pelican 1200 measures 10.62″ x 9.68″ x 4.87″, giving you plenty of room for larger items or multiple smaller items.

  • Versatility

The additional space provided by the 1200 makes it suitable for a wider range of applications, from camera equipment to power tools and more.

  • Customizable Foam

Like the 1170, the 1200 also comes with Pick N Pluck foam for a tailored fit for your gear.

  • Color Options

The 1200 is available in a variety of colors, allowing you to pick the one that suits your style or needs.

Cons of the Pelican 1200

  • Heavier

The Pelican 1200 weighs 3.47 lbs, which is heavier than the 1170, making it a bit more cumbersome to carry around.

  • Bulkier

The larger size of the 1200 may make it more difficult to store in tight spaces or carry alongside other gear.

The Verdict: Which Case Is Right for You?

When it comes to choosing between the Pelican 1170 and 1200, it ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a compact, lightweight case to protect a small item or two, the 1170 may be the better option. However, if you need more space for larger items or multiple pieces of equipment, the 1200 could be the ideal choice.

Both cases offer excellent protection, durability, and customization options, making them strong contenders in the world of protective cases. It’s also worth noting that both the 1170 and 1200 come with Pelican’s lifetime guarantee, giving you peace of mind knowing that your investment is protected.

FAQ Section

To further help you decide between the Pelican 1170 and 1200, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions.

Are both the Pelican 1170 and 1200 waterproof?

Yes, both cases are waterproof, thanks to their watertight seals. They can be submerged in water without damaging the contents inside.

Can I use both cases as carry-on luggage on a plane?

While the 1170 and 1200 cases might fit within the dimensions of carry-on luggage, it’s always best to check with your airline’s specific requirements before traveling.

Can I lock the Pelican 1170 and 1200 cases?

Yes, both cases come with stainless steel padlock protectors, allowing you to secure your items with a padlock.

Are the Pick N Pluck foam inserts easy to customize?

Absolutely! The Pick N Pluck foam inserts are designed to be easily customized by simply pulling out the pre-scored foam squares to create the perfect fit for your gear.

How durable are the Pelican 1170 and 1200 cases?

Both cases are built with an extremely durable, crushproof exterior, making them perfect for protecting your valuables in even the harshest conditions.

Can I buy additional foam inserts for my Pelican case?

Yes, you can purchase replacement foam inserts if your original foam becomes damaged or if you want to change the layout of your case’s interior.

Wrapping Things Up

In conclusion, the Pelican 1170 and 1200 cases are both excellent choices for protecting your valuable gear. The final decision will depend on the size of the items you need to protect and your personal preferences. 

No matter which case you choose, you can trust that your belongings will be safe and secure in a Pelican case.

Clayton S. Johnson

Well, I am Clayton who writes, manages, and does overall stuff for this website. I live somewhere in Stone Mountain, Georgia, and used to have a full-time job. But the pandemic taught me to do more do with my life. So, I quit my job and travel a lot! Since I have tons of time now, I write about all the stuff I have done, used, and have first-hand experiences.

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