Pelican case question

[peggig]

I just bought a Pelican case for my new HV40 camcorder, and I'm not quite sure how to fit it out properly. I thought the idea of the "pick and pluck" foam insert was that you just pull out the pieces to make hole big enough to fit your camcorder in, but the instructions say to ensure a snug fit, you should trace a line around the equipment you want to stor in it, and then use an electric carving knife to cut out the foam along the traced line. It says they highly recommend using an electric carving knife but, if you don't have one, you can use a very sharp kitchen knife with at least an 8" blade.

I don't have an electric carving knife (and don't really want to run out and buy one because I don't have any other use for it). The directions don't say whether to use a straight or serrated edge knife, if you don't have an electric one. Has anybody done this before, without an electric carving knife? If so, what did you use, and how did it work, and do you have any tips on how to do it without chewing up the foam and making a mess?

Thanks!

[Chuck Engels]

My advice is to not take the directions quite so seriously, at least not to an extreme.
If the foam is already partially cut into small squares, like most professional cases are, then just pull out the squares like you mentioned already. Don't pull out too many at a time and continually check the fit of your equipment. You do want a tight fit but don't let the whole carving knife thing get the best of you

[peggig]

Thank you, Chuck. My husband just read your response and said "He knows you!"

The little squares seem to be about 1/2" square. If the length of the camcorder is between sizes, would you advise making the hole 1/4" larger, for a loose fit, or 1/4" smaller, for a tight fit?

Thanks!

[Chuck Engels]

That's just way too funny


A tighter fit is always better, you really don't want anything moving around in there.

[peggig]

Thanks, Chuck!

[peggig]

OK, new question. Does it make any difference whether the camera is stored right side up, upside down, or on it's side?

I carved out a hole in the foam for my HV40. I wanted the strap to be on top to make it easier to lift out of the case. However, that means the camcorder, when stored in the case, will be on its side rather than right side up. Is that OK? Is the camcorder designed to be stored right-side up, and is there any possible harm that could come from storing it on its side (lens barrel/LCD side down, tape transport/strap side up)?

Also, when carrying the case, the camcorder will be upside down. I could reverse the orientation of the foam, so it's carried right side up, but then it would be upside down when I lift it out of the case. (Not a big deal, but just more convenient in the current orientation.)

Thanks!

[Chuck Engels]

It will be fine for the camcorder to be on its side, upside down or rightside up.
It just can't be inside out

[peggig]

Thanks, Chuck. I'll try to keep the insides in...

[John 'twosheds' McDonald]

Oh I don't know. I think you might be better keeping the outsides out.