Overland Trombone Case
Over the years the job has changed in that now, more often than not, I am required to carry more than one type of trombone. This can be a bit of a pain particularly if you are flying as the airlines are often okay with one instrument as carry on but less so with two. The types of cases available have, to my taste, been either way too bulky or far too heavy. There is a really good case made by Marcus Bonna but it is way too heavy. Soft bag options are available but if they make you check the bag you are then stuffed because the insurance only covers you nowadays in a hard case. So, there is the problem. I needed a solution so I have built my own case.
Problem 1, size. I decided to use Easyjet's measurements for what they allow as a guideline. I have made my case easily fit within their measurements and my result is 95x35x30cm.
Problem 2, weight. I decided to go for the expensive materials as they are the lightest and I know how heavy fibreglass gets when you have to get the thickness for strength. I went for carbon fibre which, even when layered for strength, is light. Once you add hinges, locks, handles, straps and padding for the instruments you bring the weight up but I can put a large bore Bb/F, a medium bore and (I got 3 in for no increase in case size over what I'd need for 2) an alto trombone with total weight at 12kg.
It was a big learning curve in working with composites but I am quite pleased with my attempt. I have refinements to make but I think I may be onto something that I could make on a small scale.
So, here is my solution
I will upload better pictures at some point but this is just a taster. The only real problem it that the cost price is high before I even think of labour. Maybe that is why the Wiseman case people only offer a carbon fibre double trombone case as a special at £1,200!
I have just made up inserts which allow me to replace the medium bore and alto with a bass trombone. Overall weight slightly less than when the 3 instruments are carried.