How to Buy Guitar Cases

Guitars can make beautiful music in the right hands, but even a novice guitarist can look like they know what they're doing with an attractive guitar. Whether you're a local rock star or just working on your chops, keeping your guitar from getting nicked up or cracked is vital. Here are some tips to buying a guitar case to protect your ax.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Know what kind of guitar you have. This may seem obvious, but there are different guitar cases for electric and acoustic guitars. Beyond that, there are different cases for classical and standard steel string acoustic guitars and there are different cases for different styles of electric guitars.

2. Decide how much durability you need from a case. If you tour or take your guitar with you when you travel often, you need to opt for a case with more durability. Look for durable coatings like Tolex. Some cases are even made of metal.

3. Pick between a hard case and a gig bag. Hard cases are good for protection, but if you rarely transport your guitar or need a lightweight option, a gig bag is a good way to carry and protect your guitar without adding too much weight.

4. Look for brands of cases that match the brand of your guitar. You want a case that fits your guitar like a glove, and usually that can only happen with a case from the same manufacturer as your guitar. If you have a Gibson guitar, check out Gibson's guitar cases as a match.

5. Consider style. As much as function, your guitar case should reflect your style. There are several different styles of guitar cases, from conservative and simple, to extreme cases shaped like coffins. Always check to see what color the interior upholstery is.