Any thoughts on Gard Wheelie cases?

[thetubawizard]

Hi all,

I've recently traded for a new horn and I'm in need of a new gig bag. I've always used Cronkhite but due to some money issues that is not a choice for me right now and I can't really wait. I've been looking at the Gard Wheelie gig bags and the look to be solid cases but I'd love to get any thoughts y'all might have. I have a protec bag that came with the horn that is WAY to big. The horn leans back when I use it and it is putting a lot of diagonal pressure on the pistons when I carry it and I'm really worried that they'll start to have problems soon.

Another question is, if I do go with Gard, what size should I get? The horn I need the bag for is a PT20p. The bell is 19" and the length is 36.5". The smaller Gard case fits a 19"+ x 36". Do you think my tuba would be able to squeeze into that or should I go up a size to the 19"+ x 38"?

I'm also open to suggestions on cases are semi cheap and for good quality.

Thanks!

~Nick

[eupher61]

dunno about the Wheelie, but I have a basic Gard bag which is good. Not Cronkite quality or price, but good for the price. I put a piece of cardboard in the front pocket to further protect the pistons.

[opus37]

I put a thick piece of closed cell foam cut to the shape of my bottom bow in the bottom of my too long gard bag. It helps with the fit and could be a solution to the 38" versus the 36" bag question. I don't think you need the wheels.

[thetubawizard]

Thanks for the thoughts. I appreciate it and I really like the ideas.

I contacted Woodwind Brasswind about cases that might fit but apparently they have little knowledge of tubas over there. I've told the person who answered that it is a B&S PT20 and I've even given him specific measurements yet he claims he has never heard of the horn. He kept asking for the brand... Does anyone know someone at WWBW or another place that has a large bag selection, with tuba knowledge????

[swillafew]

I own a B&S tuba (different model), and went through the same thing. I returned two gig bags before I got the right one, and even then a bigger one would have been usable.

You sound like a good customer for getting a large gig bag and some foam. I do this with a Roland Keyboard too, a big cheap case and a big piece of foam wrapped around it.