Posted by Josh Calkin on July 01, 2003 at 01:38:19:
In Reply to: Do flight cases really work? posted by Mary Ann on June 30, 2003 at 15:57:50:
I've flown with my 2155 several times. I have one of the Meinl-Weston flight cases that are basically big, red, metal boxes. They are heavy and can withstand a great deal of punishment, and are made of quality stuff. Since the inside is VERY snugly form-fitted to the instrument, I have little fear of damage from the instrument moving around inside the case. For extra protection, I fasten a ratcheting tie strap around the instrument that will securely hold the case closed should the clasps fail, I use the padded velcro thing that came with my gig bag to hold the valves in the depressed position, and I spray painted "FRAGILE: MUSICAL INSTRUMENT" on every side of the case.
After five or six cross-country flights (including changeovers), the only dents in my tuba are the one I put there myself.
-J