This article details a rigorous durability test performed on an Epiphone Les Paul SL guitar case. The case, already showing some pre-existing damage from prior testing, was subjected to a series of increasingly severe impact tests designed to simulate real-world transportation accidents and mishandling. These tests involved dropping various objects, from a large speaker cabinet to smaller amplifiers, onto the case from different heights and at various impact points. The goal was to determine the case's ability to protect the guitar from significant damage, even under extreme conditions.The experiment went beyond simple drop tests; it focused on the case's ability to absorb localized impacts, particularly in vulnerable areas such as near the guitar's bridge. The test results offer compelling evidence regarding the case's construction and protective qualities. Read on to learn the surprising results and discover how this seemingly ordinary guitar case exceeded expectations in its ability to withstand significant trauma, showcasing exceptional resilience and robust protection for the instrument inside.
Read more: 5 Must-Have Electric Guitar Cases
Initial Assessment and Prior Damage
This test focuses on the Epiphone Les Paul SL case's resilience against impacts, simulating real-world transportation accidents.
The case already had damage from previous tests involving a fall and a second-floor drop. This test aims to determine if further damage occurs.
The integrity of the neck joint, described as 'made of glass' due to prior damage, is a particular concern. The focus will be on body impacts and hardware damage.
Heavy Speaker Cabinet Impact Test
A large 2x12 speaker cabinet was dropped onto the guitar case to simulate a heavy object falling on the case during transport.
Following the impact, a visual inspection revealed no new visible damage to the case or the guitar inside.
Even after the additional weight test and drop, no signs of damage were apparent. The case has shown exceptional resilience.
Elevated Drop Tests with Smaller Amps
Further tests involved dropping a smaller, lightweight amp from increasing heights onto the case.
Even with a higher drop height, minimal impact seemed to be transferred to the guitar or the case itself.
The case absorbed the impact exceptionally well, showing no visible damage after the higher drop test.
Targeted Impact Near the Bridge
A deliberate drop on the area near the guitar's bridge was performed to test the case's protection in a critical area.
Despite the direct impact, no damage to the guitar's bridge or other components was observed.
The case's protective padding and design effectively absorbed the localized impact without causing damage.
Mid-Sized Amp Drop Test and Case Analysis
A mid-sized acoustic amp was dropped onto the case to test the resilience against a heavier, more compact impact.
The tester notes the substantial padding and rigid construction of the case, suggesting a well-engineered design.
The internal structure distributes impact pressure effectively, explaining the case's resilience.
Extreme Test and Conclusion
A final, high-impact drop test from chest height was performed to simulate a very severe impact.
The case withstood the extreme test with no damage, exhibiting extraordinary protection for the instrument.
The tester concludes that the case effectively protects the guitar against most real-world impacts and falls.