Map case recommendations.

[lostplanet]

I have tried a couple of variations for carrying OS explorers around but none so far are very nice to be honest. tried the cheap ones first but now willing to spend a bit more on a good one.
Tried :
Ortlieb mapcase - which is ok but no where to put pens and compass and bits.

Nato Mapcase Black from unknown manufacturer - is just too big and takes a while to open up and fold again. Don't like the look of the material.

Silva All round map case - This is better but the pen holders don't work, and my compass doesnt fit in the pocket , also feels cheap (like it won't last very long).

So I am looking for a case about the same size as the Silva with similar features.
Pen holders that work, compass (exped 4) storage, pad storage, a bit of space for leaflets and bits, waterproof.

http://www.silva.se/templates/Products.aspx?id=97&epslanguag%20e=EN&productId=%7BFC771315-3A81-4E90-8BB0-8069454AD950%7D&epslanguage=EN

http://www.mapsworldwide.com/sku_29204.htm

Thanks

[bigbear]

Or just buy a cheap ziplock case from W H Smith and throw it away when it wears out ( which takes far longer than you would expect) and keep pens compas etc somewhere else. It has trhe advantage of being light, cheap and small enough to stuff in a pocket or down smock for regular consultation.
I switched to this system years ago and am amazed at how well it works.

[lostplanet]

I have a large Alok-sak i could use, I like the idea of that but if i could i'd try an all in one solution again.
Are the ziplocks similar material to Alok-sak, like rubber rather than plastic/vinyl?

I ruined a ortlieb mapcase by writing on it with permanent lumocolour, where as the silva cases window can be written on and cleaned with autosol. That's why i would go down the plastic/vinyl window rather than the rubber type if you see what i mean.

what pen compass/case do you recommend, I use to have a Black horse zip case for note book and pens but unfortunately lost it. Tried a Arktis note book cover and that fell apart.

[SimonM]

I only buy the pre laminated maps these days. The price difference pays for itself as the maps last a lot longer. They offer lots of advantages over paper -
they don't rip or tear in the wind, you can write on them with a chinagraph pencil.

As a result, I don't use a map case anymore, just carry my pad / pencil in the top pocket of my sac, with the compass in a pouch on my hip belt.

HTH

Simon

[Greg]

I've had one of these for years and found it ideal.

http://www.patrolstore.com/Map-Case---Patrol-Commanders---DPM-p-9486.html

But it all depends on your preferences!

[crazydave]

if you are going to have it handy all the time then use the ortleib and carry your pens in a seperate pouch :)

[Paddywacker]

I use one of these. Ive have it years and it does the job

http://www.seallinegear.com/cases.asp?Action=MapCase&Category=ProtectiveCases

[lostplanet]

Greg i think the infantry version of your mapcase would be good, looks like a better version of the silva and for the price i can afford to give it try anyway...so ordering one soon.

cheers

[hiraeth]

I wrap my maps in polythene and gaffa tape the edges, works for me and cheap.

[Greg]

Greg i think the infantry version of your mapcase would be good, looks like a better version of the silva and for the price i can afford to give it try anyway...so ordering one soon.

cheers

I've had my one for over 12yrs now and the only problem I have found is the clip snapped on me on Tuesday! I hope it works for you.