Gator mandolin Gig Bag and Eastman mandolins
Sunday I purchased a Gator GL light weight mandolin case/gig bag, $99 at my local music store. I like the light weight gig bags, and the hard case that came with my new Eastman MD-514 just has no storage room at all.
I use a Tone-Gard, and I like being able to leave the Tone-Gard attached to the mandolin when I put it away like I did with my Kentucky KM-250 and its gig bag. So I hopped on Amazon, looked up the Gator GL light weight mandolin case, and checked the comments, questions, and reviews. I saw several reviews that specifically stated this case worked with mandolins with Tone-Gard attached. Armed with this assurance, I went to my local store and bought the case.
When I got home and gave it a try, my Eastman MD-514 absolutely did not fit in this case. Not just didn't fit the the Tone-Gard attached, but did not fit AT ALL. Even with the Tone-Gard and everything else removed, the top of the case contacted the bridge and the the bridge prevented the case from getting even close to closing.
This is completely all my own fault. I should have brought my mandolin with me for a test fit before I paid my money. I am now working with the store to exchange the Gator for something else.
In the mean time:
1) Eastman 500 series mandolins do not fit in the Gator GL light weight mandolin case.
2) When buying a case or gig bag for your mandolin, bring the mandolin with you for a test fit.
Eastman MD-514 (F body, Sitka & maple, oval hole)
Klos Carbon Fiber (on order)
And still saving my nickels & dimes & bottle caps & breakfast cereal box tops for my lifetime mandolin.
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