"Explorer cases are guaranteed to protect your tools, equipment, and important items. They are resistant to shock, impact, vibration, being crushed and general mishandling, are completely watertight, and come with a manufacturers lifetime guarantee."
Need to source a number of waterproof cases for your business? If so, the Explorer case range is an ideal choice.
With over 30 sizes and four different colour options in the range, there is a case to suit virtually any application. All Explorer Cases can also be further enhanced through a number of customisation options. This includes custom foam inserts (produced in the UK by GWP Protective) tailored to your products or kit, plus external print, bezel kits and more.
Please see below for the full range of Explorer waterproof cases that can be purchased – and customised – through GWP Protective.
What Are Explorer Cases?
Tough, durable equipment cases
Manufactured in Italy, Explorer cases are Europe’s answer to the ubiquitous Peli™ cases.
As such, they are a high performance, moulded plastic equipment case that offers exceptionally high levels of protection and a wealth of features. This includes being completely water tight.
The range comprises of more than 30 sizes, which are available in 4 standard colours. The range includes specialist gun / rifle cases, as well as larger cases that feature wheels and additional handles.
Due to the protection they offer, Explorer cases are frequently customised with bespoke foam inserts. This allows for the safe handling and transportation of important tools, equipment and products.
Widely used in military, avionics, engineering and medical applications, they compete in the waterproof case market with the likes of Pelican™ Storm Case™, SKB, Nanuk and Hardigg ranges.
Explorer Case Features
Huge range of features to enhance usability, performance, and protection
Handles
The handles offer 2 main benefits. Firstly, the ergonomic design makes the case comfortable and easy to handle. Secondly, they have been load tested to ensure their suitability for the intended applications, and reinforced with corrosion proof steel pins.
Pressure Release Valve
A manual pressure relief valve allows you equalise pressure between the inside and outside the case (useful for air travel or if the case is underwater for a prolonged period). The internal stop ring also prevents the valve from becoming detached / lost.
Latches
The latches on the Explorer case range are particularly tough and durable. Manufactured from the same tough polypropylene as the case body, they offer both high resistance (keeping contents safe) and a positive lock, whilst remaining easy to use.
Wheels
Larger cases also feature wheels, allowing for heavier items to be pulled along. The wheels feature a bearing for smoother operation, and are made with a durable, long lasting material. Explorer cases that feature wheels also provide a telescopic handle.
Metal Reinforced Hinges
The hinges on the Explorer case range are very durable thanks to corrosion proof metal reinforcements. These also allow for a “lid stay” feature, whereby the lid of the case will remain open without additional supports. Removable lids are also available.
O Ring Seal
When combined with the catches, the O ring seal in the cases interior means that when the case is shut, it is completely dust and water proof. In fact, the cases are tested to IP67, meaning your contents remain dry and safe even if fully submerged.
Stacking Locations
The moulded in positive stacking locations / patterns featured on Explorer cases allow for safe and accurate stacking. This means multiple cases can be transported and stored together much more safely, and prevents cases toppling or falling.
Pad Lockable
There are numerous moulded locations around the case that allow for Explorer specific or third party padlocks to be used. This allows for any valuable contents to be secured when you are not with the case, helping to preventing theft / loss.
Custom Explorer Cases
A wide range of options and customisations allowing you to tailor your cases
Precisely cut to match the contours of your tools, products or equipment, Explorer cases with custom foam inserts can be engineered to provide a precise level of protection.
Bezel Kits
Bezel kits, manufactured from plastic or metal, are ideal for housing electronics. Slot in mounting and screw fixings ensure cases remain water tight after installation.
Labelling / Print
Whilst some print can be applied to Explorer cases (the stacking locations limit this somewhat), custom printed labels can be used to apply company branding.
Explorer Backpack
Produced from a tear resistant polyester, this attachment converts smaller cases into a wearable backpack. Also features adjustable, padded straps, plus an external pocket.
Straps
The Explorer case shoulder strap – featuring a padded section – is compatible with most cases in the range (min 106 cm / max 201cm). It is ideal to aid handling of smaller cases.
Detachable Lid
Most Explorer cases can be specified with a detachable lid. The easy to use mechanism aids usability through improved access to contents, yet maintains waterproof properties.
For more robust equipment – or where precise protection is not required, Explorer cases can benefit from simple foam lining, or can be purchased with standard cubed foam inserts.
TSA Padlock
This TSA approved padlock (with certified logo) allows for cases to be easily checked at customs when travelling abroad, whilst helping to prevent theft and damage too.
Engineered Foam Inserts
Available for All Cases
Any Explorer (or protective case) your business uses can be enhanced with high quality foam inserts
Expert Foam Design
Work alongside an experienced, knowledgeable design team to create your perfect foam inserts
Aesthetic Appeal
Huge range of colour and branding options (including laser etched logos) to ensure a striking visual appearance
UK Manufactured
All foam inserts / packaging manufactured in house at GWP, ensuring the highest quality
All Explorer Case Models
View all of the individual Explorer case options available
Explorer Case Performance
Stringent testing to military standards
Being virtually unbreakable, and coming with a lifetime guarantee (an indication of how confident Explorer are in their protective cases), the cases have also been extensively tested for use in military applications.
Due to the properties of the Polypropylene copolymer used in the manufacture of the cases, they have high impact strength, low susceptibility to stress cracking / fractures, and are tougher and more durable at lower temperatures.
In fact, the cases also have a surprisingly large operating temperature range. Whilst not as temperature resistant as aluminium cases, they can still withstand temperatures between -33°C to +90°C. This makes them ideal for hot and cold climates.
They also have NATO stock numbers allocated, making sourcing for military or similar applications where this is a requirement quick and efficient.
- IP67 rating (ingress protection rating against both water and dust)
- Defence Standard 81-41 (part 3) issue 4
- STANAG 4280 (edition 2)
Industry choice for a huge range of applications
Military and Defence
Policing / Security
Emergency Services
Offshore Oil & Gas
Navy & Avionics
Aquatic / Scuba
Service Engineers
Maintenance
Technical equipment
Photography / Broadcast
Expedition & Remote Travel
Electronics
FAQs / Additional Info
A selection of the most commonly asked questions regarding custom Explorer cases with foam inserts
What size Explorer Cases are available?
There are a wide range of Explore cases, with more than 30 different sizes in the range. The smallest of these is 190 x 125 x 85 mm (dimensions relate to the internal length x width x depth). The largest case in the collection is 1080 x 620 x 400 mm. For a full list of sizes (and other useful info), please use this Explorer case size chart.
What colour Explorer cases are there?
There are 4 standard Explore case colours available. These are black, silver, military green and orange. Bespoke colours are available, but these are subject to minimum order quantities (MOQs).
Where are Explorer cases manufactured?
Explorer cases are manufactured in Italy (Bologna) by GT Line Srl. Having been produced in Italy since 1970, this means they have developed a strong customer base throughout Europe.
Can I have a custom sized Explorer case?
Technically it would be possible to have a bespoke Explorer case, but due to the costs of the tooling this would result in a very high MOQ (minimum order quantity) or would make the cases very expensive. If you cannot find a suitable size in the Explorer range, GWP will be happy to advise of alternative waterproof cases, or manufacture a bespoke EXOCase.
What are Explorer cases made from?
Explorer cases are manufactured from Polypropylene copolymer. Polypropylene is a widely used thermoplastic, but using a copolymer variant it makes the cases slightly softer and more pliable. Whilst this may sound like a negative, what it means in practice is the cases have better impact strength, are more durable, tougher at lower temperatures and stress crack resistant.
Do Explorer cases have wheels?
The larger Explorer cases do come with built in, in-line wheels to aid movement (this is further enhanced through a telescopic handle). This would obviously add unnecessary weight to the smaller cases however. In order to see whether the individual cases have wheels, please see this size guide.
Can Explorer cases be customised?
Explorer cases can be customised in a number of ways. This includes standard options such as bezel kits, padded dividers and straps (that allow the cases to be worn like a rucksack). GWP Protective can also design and manufacture protective foam inserts, which provide a tailored level of protection for equipment or delicate items (preventing damage).
Can I purchase a single Explorer case?
Whilst it is possible to purchase a single Explorer case from GWP, it is likely to more cost effective to do so from an online shop. GWP Protective specialise in supplying mid to high volume cases to businesses, and / or providing extensive customisation. If in doubt however then please do not hesitate to ask – we will be happy to advise as appropriate.
What other waterproof cases are there?
The waterproof case market is particularly crowded with different brands and products. This includes Peli (Protector) cases, Peli Storm, Nanuk, SKB and Hardigg Roto Mould options, besides Explorer. You can also source waterproof flight cases (EXOCase) which can be manufactured to any size.
What are Explorer cases typically used for?
Explorer cases are extensively used by European military forces, although provide protection for a number of other industries and applications too. This includes field engineers, motorsport, aerospace, broadcasting, offshore oil and gas and many others. Basically, if your business has expensive, delicate or specialist equipment that needs protecting, Explorer cases will protect them.
Why should I source my business' Explorer Cases from GWP?
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A huge selection of similar waterproof cases and alternative protective case options
Why source your Explorer Cases from GWP?
Official UK Explorer Case distributors
Widest Range
Not only are GWP official Explorer Case distributors but, as an independent business, can also offer you the widest range of waterproof and protective cases available from a single UK supplier
Foam Design Expertise
Being one of the UK’s largest foam converters, working with GWP allows you to source both Explorer case and foam insert together – improving quality, compatibility and price
Genuinely Impartial Advice
With more than 30 years experience in supplying all types of case, you can benefit from expert and genuinely impartial advice on the best case for your specific application
UK leading equipment case suppliers
Although GWP Protective are official distributors for, amongst others, Peli™, SKB, Explorer, Nanuk and Hardigg, we have remained completely independent throughout our more than 25 years of trading.
The benefits of this?
Well, it means that not only can you source practically any protective case you require, but can also receive truly impartial advice on which is best for your specific application – without any bias or hidden agendas.
Plus, with a strong focus on customisation (and particularly foam inserts), our UK based staff will be to not only advise you on the best Explorer (or alternative) case for your requirements, but also provide an extremely competitive quote.
And if an off the shelf case isn’t 100 percent perfect, you can have bespoke solutions manufactured to your exact requirements.
Expertise in custom Explorer Case foam inserts
Besides this, GWP guarantees your business will see tangible benefits from working with experienced case and foam designers / engineers. In fact, by manufacturing any foam insert alongside your chosen waterproof case, it improves the fit, compatibility, and can even allow for a very specific level of protection to be achieved.
All of this is complemented by a modern manufacturing plant, skilled production staff, and knowledgeable customer service and technical support teams.
You can even take advantage of additional services, such as a just in time supply agreement, mobile design service (a designer will come to you), and free quotations on any job, big or small.
So if you need a waterproof equipment case such as Explorer Cases, GWP can supply an option that is both cost effective and perfectly matched to your business requirements.
Quotes, Technical Info, Advice...
Get your no obligation, tailored quote (or impartial product advice) now
Here to Help
Contact a member of our sales & support team directly
Dan Wellings
Product Adviser
protective@gwp.co.uk
01722 416 440
Richard Coombes
General Manager
richard.coombes@gwp.co.uk
01722 416 440
Ian Heskins
Sales Director
ian.heskins@gwp.co.uk
01793 754 444
01722 416 440
Mon – Fri 08.30 – 17.00
protective@gwp.co.uk
Email a case / foam expert