Tuffpak – The Tripod's Super Protector

In 2008 Nalpak of California named CaSu of Munich as their sole European distributor and since then common products have been developed such as the rolling tripod case for 2 stage ENG systems.

In the 1960s, the first tripod cases were made from fibre-board sheets that were formed into rounds and riveted from top to bottom. They even riveted the handles in place. It was pretty common to see yards of duct tape wrapped around the case and after only a couple of trips a new case was in order but no one expected anything different from the miserable round "sewer pipe" cases.

However, Tuffpak's inventor, Bob Kaplan decided to design tripod cases through rotational molding. The parts produced by this molding method are just bullet proof. The trade-off is that this molding process has much longer production cycles and it is very labour intensive. These factors increase production costs but professionals who travel can appreciate the differences and don't mind paying a little more for an incredibly durable product.

Along the way an anti-roll hexagonal shape was selected, as well as a molded double handle for instant balance, built in protection for straps, buckles and a well fitting and a smartly designed cap that would keep the water out if it was left standing in the rain. Most cases nowadays come with wheels for easy transport. Often copied, we recommend you go for the original as only those will last for life.

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This article is also available to read in the August edition of Broadcast Film & Video.