Conical bore wrote:A metal case might work, but one of the attractive things about the Northwind case compared to the smaller (non-Pelican) plastic cases, is that I think it would probably pass the "could someone sit on it, and not break the flute?" test. I don't know how thick an aluminum case would have to be, to match it.
I would think an aluminium case that size, made from 1mm thick sheet, would easily permit me to stand on it. (Folding metal makes it very strong.) If I get around to making one, I'll try it. Feel free to go first!
I think in all the years, I've only had one case seriously damaged in the mail. But that one was essentially a write off. From the images sent back, I'm guessing a forklift stabbed through the box with one of its loading prongs. Probably my package was at the bottom of one of those big postal bags, and the forklift prong didn't pass under the bag, but attempted to go through. Insurance paid up without a whimper. The flute came off largely unscathed, but I think at least one key got flattened down against the body and had to be replaced. Looking at the cardboard packing box, you'd wonder anything inside could survive.
I haven't actually tried that, mind you! But that wooden shell feels very strong and resistant to any attempt to deflect it with my hands. It seems to me that someone used to working in wood might be able to make something similar without too much trouble. It's just two pieces of wood, shaped on the exterior and routed for the interior. What makes it look fancy is the leather finish for the exterior. Which I have to admit is attractive, even when it picks up a few scuff marks. The leather also provides the hinge, so there is no extra metal attachments except for the clasp.
How did it come to be, as a matter of interest? Did you send them the flute, or a drawing, or measurements, or outlines?