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Pelican 1170 Case With Foam Review

The Pelican 1170 is a compact waterproof hard case for protecting small electronics, cameras, accessories, and other sensitive equipment. Its strongest case is rugged transport and storage, supported by IP67 protection, customizable foam, and excellent build scores. The main constraint is its relatively small interior, so careful measurement is essential.
Expert reviewed
93
Overall score
Data-driven scoring Expert reviewed Updated analysis

Why we ranked it highly

The Pelican 1170 Case With Foam is a compact hard-shell protective case designed for small, valuable, or sensitive equipment. Its supplied specifications emphasize an IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, a high-impact polycarbonate enclosure, O-ring sealing, double-throw latches, and an automatic pressure-equalization valve. Inside, Pick N Pluck foam, convoluted lid foam, and a solid base layer let owners create a more secure layout for their own gear. The interior measures 10.54 x 6.04 x 3.16 inches, making it more suitable for a focused kit than for bulky equipment. With a 93 overall score, it stands out for protective performance, construction, durability, reliability, and buyer satisfaction. It is best approached as a premium compact case: highly protective, but dependent on accurate sizing and manual foam preparation.
90-day review Expert reviewed User feedback Data scoring

Key specs

Additional details

Water Resistance Level
Waterproof
Color
Black
Enclosure Material
Plastic
Screen Size
12.1 Inches

Measurements

Item Weight
890 Grams

Features & Specs

Water Resistance Level
Waterproof

Item details

Brand
Pelican
Model Number
1170-000-110
UPC
019428093204 611102228096 796594330219
Global Trade Identification Number
00019428093204
Manufacturer Part Number
FBA_1170-000-110
Built-In Media
Protector Case
Manufacturer
Pelican Products Inc.
Item Type Name
Hard shell case.
Model Name
FBA_1170-000-110

Scores breakdown

96 /100

Performance

94 /100

Features

88 /100

Usability

91 /100

Design

100 /100

App experience

100 /100

Display quality

100 /100

Audio quality

100 /100

Camera quality

Strengths

  • IP67-rated waterproof and dustproof protection for compact equipment.
  • High-impact polycarbonate shell, strong latches, and an O-ring seal support its 98 build-quality and durability scores.
  • Pick N Pluck base foam, lid foam, and a solid base layer allow a tailored internal layout.
  • Automatic pressure-equalization valve is intended to balance internal pressure after atmospheric changes.
  • Lifetime warranty provides unusually strong ownership reassurance.
  • Very high buyer approval: 4.9/5 stars from 4,304 reviews.

Limitations

  • The 10.54 x 6.04 x 3.16-inch interior is compact and may be too small for larger equipment.
  • Creating a close foam fit requires manual planning and removal of foam sections.
  • Customer feedback indicates a knife may be more precise than simply pulling foam squares for detailed layouts.
  • Locks are not included, and lock-shackle fit should be checked carefully before purchase.
  • At 2.10 lb with foam, it adds noticeable weight relative to the small internal capacity.
  • Its compatibility score of 78 reflects fit constraints rather than broad, universal storage capacity.

Ideal user profiles

  • Owners protecting compact cameras, action cameras, lenses, small electronics, or delicate accessories.
  • Travelers who need a small hard case with waterproof, dustproof protection.
  • Collectors seeking rugged storage for watches or other compact valuables.
  • Buyers who value a lifetime warranty and a highly rated protective-case brand.
  • Users willing to customize foam for a dedicated equipment layout.

Use cases

  • Protecting a compact camera, action camera, or related accessories during transport.
  • Storing small electronics and cables in a dustproof, sealed hard case.
  • Organizing watches or similarly sized collectibles in custom-cut foam.
  • Carrying sensitive gear through wet, dusty, or changing-pressure environments.
  • Creating a fitted travel case for a small set of valuable items.
  • Using as rugged storage for equipment that benefits from shock and vibration protection.

Fit and positioning

Who this works for

Category positioning

The Pelican 1170 sits toward the premium end of compact protective hard cases. It is not a lightweight pouch or a high-capacity organizer; instead, it prioritizes sealing, shell strength, customized internal protection, and long-term ownership confidence. Its 96 performance score, 98 build-quality score, and lifetime warranty support that positioning. At $64.95, it is a value-focused choice only for buyers who will use its protective design, while those needing more volume may be better served by a larger case.

Best for

This case is best for buyers protecting a compact, defined set of equipment in travel, storage, or demanding environments. Its 96 performance score and IP67-rated protection make it especially relevant for small cameras, action cameras, electronics, accessories, watches, and similarly sized valuables. It also suits users who want to shape the foam around a dedicated layout and place high value on the 98 durability score and lifetime warranty.

Not best for

Skip the Pelican 1170 if your equipment exceeds its 10.54 x 6.04 x 3.16-inch internal dimensions or if you need flexible storage for frequently changing gear. Reviews show that size can be a point of disagreement, so it is not a safe purchase without measurements. It is also less suitable for buyers who want a very light case, pre-cut compartments, included locks, or a no-effort setup.

Performance analysis

How it performs in practice

Each scoring dimension is separated into a compact card so the strengths and tradeoffs are easier to compare without reading one long block.

Performance analysis

For a hard equipment case, performance is defined by how well it shields its contents. The Pelican 1170 receives a 96 performance score, supported by its IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, rigid polycarbonate shell, O-ring seal, and foam-based impact protection. The pressure-equalization valve is also intended to help after atmospheric changes. This is a strong protective design for compact gear, provided the owner creates an appropriate foam layout and does not exceed the available internal space.

Feature analysis

The 1170 has a practical feature set for a compact protective case: IP67 protection, double-throw latches, an O-ring seal, pressure equalization, and three foam elements. The 1.50-inch Pick N Pluck layer provides the main customization option, while the lid foam and solid base help cushion contents. Its 94 feature score reflects a well-rounded protection-first package. However, locks are not included, and there is no supplied evidence of built-in security hardware.

Usability analysis

The 88 usability score indicates a generally convenient case with some hands-on preparation required. Reviews praise the latches and the ability to create a snug foam fit, which can prevent equipment from shifting. However, getting the best result takes measuring, planning, and removing foam carefully; one review suggests a knife may work better for precise layouts. The compact footprint is convenient once configured, but the case is less adaptable after a dedicated insert has been made.

Design

The Pelican 1170 uses a compact, rectangular hard-case design that favors practical protection over slimness. Its 91 design score reflects the efficient use of the internal volume, two latches, lock holes, and layered foam arrangement. The black exterior is discreet, while the 3.16-inch internal height gives room for small equipment without making the case excessively deep. The trade-off is a rigid, 2.10-pound form that is less convenient than a soft case for casual carry.

How it compares

Within compact hard cases, the Pelican 1170 is positioned around protection and longevity rather than maximum capacity or minimum weight. Its IP67 rating, O-ring seal, pressure valve, high-impact shell, and high build and durability scores give it an advantage for users prioritizing environmental and impact protection. The Pick N Pluck foam also offers more tailored support than a simple empty box. In exchange, it is heavier and more rigid than a soft organizer, and its compact internal dimensions limit what it can hold. Buyers comparing cases should focus first on internal measurements, foam requirements, lock needs, and whether waterproof protection is genuinely necessary.

Ranking summary

The Pelican 1170 achieves a 93 overall score because it performs exceptionally well in the areas that matter most for a protective hard case. Build quality and durability both score 98, protective performance scores 96, reliability scores 96, and customer satisfaction reaches 97. Its IP67 rating, rigid polycarbonate construction, layered foam, pressure valve, and lifetime warranty give it a convincing protection-first profile. The score is held back mainly by fit limitations: the compact interior produces a 78 compatibility score, while portability and setup are more moderate at 82 and 86. It ranks as a strong compact specialist rather than a one-size-fits-all storage case.

Buying advice

Consider the Pelican 1170 if you have a compact equipment kit that needs serious protection during storage or travel. Before ordering, measure the longest, widest, and tallest parts of every item against the 10.54 x 6.04 x 3.16-inch internal dimensions, leaving room for foam around them. Plan the foam layout before removing sections, since a dedicated cutout is less flexible for later gear changes. If security is important, purchase locks separately and check shackle diameter carefully. Buyers who need more capacity, a lighter carry solution, or preconfigured compartments should look for a larger or less specialized case instead.
93
Overall score

Final verdict

The Pelican 1170 Case With Foam is a strong compact hard-case option, earning a 93 overall score through excellent construction, IP67-rated protection, customizable foam, very high customer satisfaction, and a lifetime warranty. Its main strength is confidence-inspiring physical protection for small, valuable equipment. Its main limitation is capacity: the interior is compact, and the foam requires manual customization to achieve the best fit. At $64.95, it makes most sense for buyers who need its waterproof, dustproof, and rugged design rather than simple storage. Measure first, then it is a compelling long-term protective case.
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Key topics

Pelican 1170 Case With Foam review, Pelican 1170 waterproof case, Pelican 1170 case ranking, small hard equipment case, IP67 protective case, Pick N Pluck foam case, Pelican 1170 comparison, compact waterproof electronics case

Frequently asked questions

Is the Pelican 1170 Case With Foam worth it?
For buyers who need high-level protection in a compact format, the Pelican 1170 appears to offer strong value. It earns a 93 overall score, with particularly high build-quality, durability, and reliability scores. The $64.95 price is higher than basic cases, but the IP67 rating, customizable foam, and lifetime warranty add meaningful value.
What can fit inside the Pelican 1170?
The interior measures 10.54 x 6.04 x 3.16 inches, so it is designed for compact equipment rather than large kits. Reviews describe uses for cameras, watches, small electronics, and compact items with accessories. Measure every item before buying, especially its height, because customer opinions on the case size are mixed.
Is the Pelican 1170 waterproof?
The supplied product information lists an IP67 rating and describes an O-ring watertight seal, ABS latches, and an automatic pressure-equalization valve. These features support waterproof and dustproof protection when the case is properly closed. As with any protective enclosure, the condition of the seal and correct closure matter in real use.
Is the foam in the Pelican 1170 easy to customize?
The case includes Pick N Pluck foam, convoluted lid foam, and a solid base layer, allowing users to shape compartments around their equipment. Reviews are positive about the customization potential, although some users note that careful planning and a knife can produce cleaner cutouts. Foam customization is a practical step, not an instant universal fit.
Does the Pelican 1170 include locks?
No locks are listed among the supplied included features. The case has lock holes, but reviews advise checking a lock's shackle diameter before purchase because some thicker shackles may not fit. Buyers who need a locked case should budget for compatible locks and confirm their chosen lock dimensions before ordering.
Is the Pelican 1170 easy to carry?
The Pelican 1170 is compact, with external dimensions of 11.64 x 8.34 x 3.78 inches. It weighs 2.10 lb with foam, which is manageable for travel but substantial compared with a soft pouch. Its portability score of 82 reflects this trade-off: rugged protection is the priority, not minimum carry weight.
How durable is the Pelican 1170 Case With Foam?
Durability is one of this case's clearest strengths, reflected in a 98 durability score and a 98 build-quality score. The supplied description cites high-impact structural polycarbonate, while reviews repeatedly describe the shell, hinge, and latches as sturdy. The lifetime warranty further supports confidence in long-term ownership.
What is the main drawback of the Pelican 1170?
The main drawback is limited internal capacity. Its compact 10.54 x 6.04 x 3.16-inch interior works best for a small, carefully planned load, and several reviews emphasize checking dimensions. The manual foam setup and separate lock purchase can also add friction for buyers seeking a ready-to-use storage solution.

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