One of the things I have been working on recently is improving how I carry and protect my radio scanning equipment. While my previous case served its purpose for a while, it was becoming increasingly obvious that it wasn't really standing up to everyday use.
After a few incidents and some searching around, I've now put together a new Daily Carry Radio Case.
Why the change?
My previous case had started showing its weaknesses. On a few occasions, the clips had come open while the case was being transported, which isn't exactly ideal when you're carrying radio equipment around.
It had also developed a crack near the hinge, and I was finding that it wasn't holding everything as securely as I would have liked.
For equipment that gets carried around regularly, I wanted something a little more robust. I also wanted to keep everything together in one compact package rather than having various bits of equipment floating around in my backpack.
Finding a replacement
While browsing around recently, I came across the ToolPRO-X Metal Modular Storage System Small Plastic Organiser. It was on special for just $24, and after a quick check of the dimensions, it looked like it might be a good fit for what I needed. I decided to give this one a go.
It's a relatively compact organiser, but the layout and construction looked promising. It also offered a few features that addressed the problems I had been having with my previous case.
Reusing my custom foam insert
One of the biggest advantages of the new case is that I could reuse the custom foam insert I had previously made for my Uniden UBCD436PT. The foam was originally cut to suit the scanner and its accessories, so I was hoping it would transfer across without too much work. Fortunately, it fitted extremely well. Only a small amount of foam needed to be removed from the side to get everything sitting comfortably. This saved me having to start again and make another custom insert.
It also means the scanner remains securely positioned inside the case rather than moving around during transport.
Removable storage tubs
Another feature I particularly like is the removable plastic storage tubs.
These provide some additional flexibility and allow me to separate smaller accessories and equipment.
The tubs can also be removed individually when I only need to take a particular selection of gear with me. This is a nice bonus and makes the case a little more versatile than my previous setup.
It's always useful having somewhere to keep the smaller bits and pieces that tend to accumulate when you're involved in radio scanning!
A more robust design
The new case also has a couple of construction improvements that I was specifically looking for.
The heavy-duty latches provide a much more secure closure, while the protected hinges should help avoid the sort of damage that developed on my previous case.
Considering this case will be regularly carried around in a backpack, having something that can better handle everyday knocks and movement is important. I'm not expecting it to be indestructible, but it certainly feels like a step in the right direction.
Getting back to portable scanning
One of my goals over the coming months is to get back into doing more portable radio scanning sessions.
While I enjoy having my scanning equipment set up at home, there's something different about getting out and about, finding somewhere interesting to sit, and seeing what activity you can discover. Having a compact, organised case makes that a lot easier.
This new setup is small and neat enough to carry around in my everyday backpack without taking up too much room. It gives me a convenient way to transport my UBCD436PT and associated equipment while keeping everything protected and organised.
Final thoughts
For $24, I'm pretty happy with this little upgrade.
The ToolPRO-X organiser has given me a more practical carrying solution, allowed me to reuse my existing custom foam insert, and provided some additional flexibility with the removable storage tubs.
Most importantly, it addresses the shortcomings of my previous case.
Sometimes the best equipment upgrades aren't necessarily expensive or complicated. A little bit of repurposing and some careful planning can produce a very practical result.
I'm looking forward to putting this one through its paces over the coming months, particularly as I get back into more portable scanning.
Another small improvement to my radio scanning setup.
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