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Ok, you've bought the guitar of your dreams; you mowed lawns or worked overtime for three years just to be able to afford it. You're guarding it with your life. The last thing you want to do is risk its getting scratched, dented, or worse, simply because you failed to save enough money or were too cheap to invest in a quality case. There are four basic case types to choose from: 1. Soft cases - these "gig bags" are generally sewn from a very tough nylon fabric, with padding on the inside plus zippered accessory pouches. These cases will generally also come equipped with shoulder straps, enabling it to be carried hands free, or while riding on a bicycle or a motorcycle. While protecting your baby from the elements and dust can be assured, a soft case will not protect your guitar from being dropped or handled roughly.
2. Cardboard - these cases are made of vinyl-covered cardboard and provide a bit more protection than soft cases. The guitar will withstand being dropped or mishandled more than with soft cases. This type of case will not come with shoulder straps.
3. Hardshell - if you gig regularly or have a valuable instrument, don't even consider going with anything less than a hardshell case. Made out of hard ABS plastic or wood on the outside, these cases will generally have one inch or more of padding all the way around the instrument. These cases can withstand being thrown around in the backs of vans and the rough-and-tumble world of the gigging life. If you have an instrument to protect, the extra investment for a high-quality hardshell case will more than pay off in the end.
4. Flight cases - these are ATA rated for travel on aircraft. While hardshell cases offer all protection normally needed, an ATA-rated flight case is essential if you plan to stow your instrument on an aircraft. Take heed - anything less than this will net you an "improper packing" notice if you should try to file an insurance claim for a damaged instrument. Check with your airline to find out what they recommend. All these cases and more are available at online guitar stores for guitar cases. Here you can find great deals on all the latest and most protective styles of cases. Check them out today and keep your precious guitar safe!
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