Plano Protector PillarLock Bow Case Review: Hard-Case Protection

A modern compound bow is a precise machine. A knock to the cam, sight or rest in the back of a truck can undo a careful tune, and an airline baggage handler can do far worse. A hard case is the simplest insurance. Plano's Protector series is one of the most common hard bow cases in North America, and this review explains what the single-bow Protector offers and how to choose a case for your bow.

The short version

The Plano Protector single bow case is a hard polypropylene case with Plano's patented PillarLock anti-crush design, high-density poly foam lining to keep the bow aligned, and two strong lockable latches. It is built for single-limb and split- or parallel-limb compound bows, with or without a quiver attached, and has interior storage for arrows. Retailers list it at around 49 × 19.5 × 6.5 inches outside. Plano also sells a smaller Compact version for shorter bows.

Why a hard case

A soft case is fine for carrying a bow from the car to the range. For anything else, including bouncing in a pickup bed, sharing a vehicle with other gear, or flying, a hard case is worth having.

Will my bow fit?

Measure your bow with accessories fitted: sight, rest, stabilizer and quiver if you want it attached. Compare that with the case's interior dimensions, not the exterior. Retailers list the Protector at about 49 inches long outside, which suits most hunting compounds. Very long target compounds and bows with long stabilizers may need a larger case, and short bows will be more secure in the Compact model.

Removing the stabilizer and quiver before packing often lets a bow fit a smaller case and protects those accessories better.

Arrow storage

The Protector has internal arrow storage so that arrows travel with the bow. Plano lists storage for six arrows on this model. If you travel with more, a separate arrow tube protects them better than loose arrows in a bow case.

Flying with a bow

Some retailers describe the Protector as airline approved, but rules are set by airlines and security authorities, not case makers. Before flying:

1. Check your airline's sporting equipment policy, including size, weight and fees.
2. Use locks your security authority can open, such as TSA-accepted locks in the United States, or expect the case to be opened and left unlocked.
3. Pack broadheads separately and check regulations on carrying them.
4. Protect the sight and rest with extra foam or by removing them.
5. Re-check your tune on arrival.

Care

• Keep the foam dry; open the case after damp trips so the bow and foam can dry out.
• Check latches and hinges periodically.
• Store the case away from high heat, which can affect plastic and foam.

How to pack a compound bow in a hard case

1. Remove the stabilizer and quiver unless the case is designed for them, and store them separately or in the case's arrow area.
2. Note sight positions with tape or marks if you remove the sight.
3. Protect the rest: drop-away cords and bristle rests can be bent by foam pressure; check nothing presses on them.
4. Lay the bow so the cams and sight sit in the deepest foam, with nothing touching the string.
5. Secure arrows in the arrow storage, points covered.
6. Close and lock the latches, and do a gentle shake test: nothing should move inside.

Measuring your bow for a case

Compare these with the case's interior dimensions, with a little margin for foam compression.

Hard case versus soft case at a glance

Common mistakes

• Measuring the bow without accessories, then finding it does not fit.
• Leaving a damp bow closed in the case after a wet hunt.
• Locking the case with locks security staff cannot open.

Who the Protector suits

• Bowhunters who drive to hunting areas with other gear in the vehicle.
• Archers who fly to hunts or tournaments.
• Owners of tuned compounds who want to protect sights and rests between sessions.

Who should look elsewhere

• Recurve archers with takedown bows usually prefer a compact takedown case.
• Archers who fly often may want a premium case with wheels and stronger hardware.
• Owners of very long target bows, who need a larger case.

You can see the Plano Protector on Amazon. Confirm interior dimensions against your bow before ordering.

Buying checklist

Frequently asked questions

Does the case fit a bow with the quiver attached?

Plano says the Protector suits bows with or without quivers. Check the interior dimensions against your bow with the quiver fitted.

How do I stop the sight moving in transit?

Make sure the foam supports the bow without pressing on the sight. Some archers remove the sight and pack it separately, marking its position first.

Can I take a bow case on a plane?

Bows are usually carried as checked sporting equipment. Rules vary by airline and country, so check before you book, and use locks your security authority accepts.

Should I remove accessories before packing?

Removing the stabilizer and quiver protects them and makes the bow easier to fit. Many archers also remove the sight; note its position first so you can refit it accurately.

Can a recurve go in this case?

A strung one-piece recurve might, but takedown recurves are usually carried disassembled in a dedicated takedown case.