waterproof PSKs

Posted by: ken_nerve

waterproof PSKs - 03/06/05 06:45 AM

Anyone here uses Otter boxes and/or Aquapacs for PSKs? Are there any other alternatives for a water proof PSK box?
Posted by: 03lab

Re: waterproof PSKs - 03/06/05 09:24 AM

I use Aloksaks, they are lighter and more flexible than Peli and Otter boxes but won't take as much abuse.
Posted by: ken_nerve

Re: waterproof PSKs - 03/06/05 04:38 PM

Currently I just place my PSK items in a small ziplock before putting them into a pouch which is the size of my palm.
Are the Aloksaks easy to open and close? Is the opening and close like Ziplocks?
Posted by: GoatRider

Re: waterproof PSKs - 03/06/05 05:31 PM

I had a PSK in an otter-compatible box I took flying in a small plane. After I got back, I couldn't get it opened. After really tugging hard, it went PSSST and opened. I guess the air went out at altitude, and didn't go back in when I came down.
Posted by: 03lab

Re: waterproof PSKs - 03/06/05 06:06 PM

Yes, they are much like ZipLoc bags and easy to use. Aloksak
Posted by: Vinosaur

Re: waterproof PSKs - 03/07/05 01:32 AM

I currently use a Pelican 1010 case for my PSK. It is quite a bit larger than most want to carry, but I keep mine in my Maxpedition FatBoy or "man-purse" as my wife calls it. I don't even notice it. Waterproof, and holds everything I want it to.
Posted by: garrett

Re: waterproof PSKs - 03/07/05 01:17 PM

I use an otterbox for my smaller PSK and I loved it until about tow months ago. I was bored during a typhoon one day in Japan so I was repacking my gear and I ran a test with my otterbox. I emptied it out and put it in a pitcher full of water for about 30 minutes. When I opened it to check its abilities, it had water in it. I was disappointed, especially due to the price of the box and all, but then I had a thought. This box was fully submerged for over half an hour, and it had water in it. Most everything that was in it would be ok, except of course for the tinder, but most would be fine.

Despite this experiment and in the driving rain of Fuji, Japan, it did hold tight. My only concern would be if I was in a boat that capsized or if I was thrown overboard at sea. A few people here gave me some advise on how to put in another seal, but I have been motivated enough to explore these projects yet.

All in all, I think it does better than an altoids tin for my needs, especially the "crush proofness" of the box itself.

Just my experience,

Garrett
Posted by: NAro

Re: waterproof PSKs - 03/07/05 01:49 PM

I use Aquapac, and have posted about them and links here. The one I use can be worn around your neck (with a break-away lanyard) OR on a belt.
Posted by: JOEGREEN

Re: waterproof PSKs - 03/07/05 06:14 PM

Coincidentally, I just ordered a few of the various Witz boxes last week. I'm also looking for a waterproof alternative to ziplock bags.

Witz Products - Compact Cases
Posted by: bountyhunter

Re: waterproof PSKs - 03/07/05 06:32 PM

Garret:

For what Otter charges for its products, it probably has a warranty if it was advertised as watertight.

Call them up and they may even provide prepaid return shipping to their plant for a replacement.

I am shipping back (2) Everready flashlights for warranty exchange and have a prepaid label from Everready so that shipping costs me nothing.

Good luck!

Bountyhunter
Posted by: SheepDog

Re: waterproof PSKs - 03/07/05 09:32 PM

One thing that seems to work during the very limited testing I have done is to use one of the new zip bottomed Platypus water bottles. I have carried them for years for drink and water but with the new zip closed bottoms they can be opened up large enough to stuff kit type stuff into the bottle and then seal it closed. The obvious advantage is that you have a water bottle when you remove the kit. My kit is in a fanny pack much of it water will not hurt but sensitive stuff can be stuffed into the bottle for water proofing it. Also storing the bottle flat or full will make it last longer than rolling it up.
Posted by: billvann

Re: waterproof PSKs - 03/07/05 10:19 PM

Interesting idea. I have the 3 liter Big Zip hydration bag. It and the 4 liter version have gromets at the corners wher you can tie paracord to create a handle. But it's a little big for a mini PSK, but a good size for small or mini BOB. Or an item to include in your BOB and hold you items that need protection from water.

BTW, the 1 liter is the smallest Big Zip. It's :

Big Zip 1: $20.95*
Weight: 3.5oz/100g
Volume: 35oz/1.0liters
Size: 6x12in/15x30cm\

Big Zip 3: $24.95*
Weight: 4.5oz/135g
Volume: 100oz/3.0liters
Size: 7.5x17in/19x43cm

Big Zip 4: $26.95*
Weight: 6oz/170g
Volume: 130oz/4liters
Size: 9x17in/23x43cm
Posted by: ken_nerve

Re: waterproof PSKs - 03/08/05 04:55 AM

I used to carry stuff in a case similar to the Witz compact case that I got as a freebie from the navy, but found it awkward putting and taking stuff out, especially if the item is shorter than the height of the case. I rather have a box open lengthwise like an otterbox. I find it more convenient that that way.
I use an Aquapac for my phone or walkie talkie when kayaking and have not experience any problems but would prefer a a crushproof type box
Posted by: frenchy

Re: waterproof PSKs - 03/08/05 08:39 PM

Those Platypus' guys are pretty smart !
Big Zip 1 = liter
Big Zip 3 = liters
Big Zip 4 = 4 liters ...
Neat, simple, explicite ... <img src="/images/graemlins/cool.gif" alt="" />

Maxpedition OTOH is more complex :
M1 pouch = medium
M2 pouch = small
M4 pouch = large
<img src="/images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" />


<img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />