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Hello all!

I am an industrial design and technology student at Loughborough university.

Over this summer I want to design the perfect gaming carry case/ bag as a personal project that could (and may well) go to manufacture. I have many ideas at the moment but , as with all design projects, I need lots of case studies, if you will pardon the pun, from many different hobbyists. Any help (see below) would be greatly appreciated, NO MATTER HOW SMALL, and if my design is well enough received, there is a very good chance that I will make a kickstarter project and start manufacture!!

Any help from you may be rewarded with discounts if my project goes to kickstarter!
so, if you wish to help, please tell me about your experience!


Any information about any/ all of the following areas will help!


1 - what do you currently use to transport models?

2 - what sized models/ how many do you usually take to game?

3 - how many books/ dice/ other equipment do you take?

4 - What is the most annoying thing about hobby cases?

5 - what features do you really like about hobby cases?

6 - do you feel comfortable being in public with a gaming case?

7 - how many gaming systems are you likely to take with you in a trip?

8 - do you prefer a hard case, a bag, or a combination?

9 - how much would you be willing to spend on a hobby case that could safely and stylishly transport your models?

10- what do you think about having several sized case options?

11 - how would you carry your case, for example, by a handle, a carry strap or backpack?

12 - any other comments you wish to make?

feel free to PM me if you wish!

THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR YOUR HELP!



.

I currently use tupperware boxes filled with kitchen role/bubblewrap in a bag.

Usually around 3-6 vehicles, some cavalry sized models on flying bases (jetbikes) and some big guys like the wraithknight.

I take 2-3 books, around 50 dice, measuring tape, templates and objective cards etc.

having something to protect breakages is always useful (separation for each model so that they don't scratch the paint from one another).

Probably comfortable, the only worry is theft should someone think its some kind of laptop or other expensive device.

just the one gaming system probably.

Combination of a bah and hard case because bags are easier to carry but the hard case protects the good better.

I would say around £40 for a good quality case.

 Tiny_Titan wrote:

1 - what do you currently use to transport models?
2 - what sized models/ how many do you usually take to game?
3 - how many books/ dice/ other equipment do you take?
4 - What is the most annoying thing about hobby cases?
5 - what features do you really like about hobby cases?
6 - do you feel comfortable being in public with a gaming case?
7 - how many gaming systems are you likely to take with you in a trip?
8 - do you prefer a hard case, a bag, or a combination?
9 - how much would you be willing to spend on a hobby case that could safely and stylishly transport your models?
10 - any other comments you with to make?

1 - KR Multicase Kaiser 3
2 - Size is generally 28mm infantry to something as big as a Stormraven. I shuffle my lists around a lot, but generally 20-50 infantry of various poses/bulk and a handfull of vehicles.
3 - Dice is normally a brick of 36, plus a few scatter dice, and a big one for marking the turn. I also bring templates, tape measures, and a bunch of CCG-sized cards to track rules, powers, etc. Books flex over editions. Currently I have a small form rulebook and a codex I bring to games, but last edition I had to lug the massive tome of a book, plus 1-3 smaller books.
4 - The things that bother me most about my current case is the poor pocket layout and the size. I rarely need all 3 KRU worth of space, but need to drag it up anyway.
5 - I like the KR system of being able to swap out boxes into a larger case. I don’t have to dig through the whole case to get at anything. Modular foam swapping is great for people like me who change their army all the time.
6 - I generally just go from my house to the FLGS, so am not in public much. That said, it’s a mostly non-descript black bag. Nothing that embarrassing about it.
7 - One system per trip. I pre-arrange games, write a list, and pack it before heading out. I don’t bring random stuff hoping for a pickup game.
8 - I like the soft case, hard box, soft foam set up of KR. It’s heavy enough with the soft bag. I don’t need the durability of a hard case; I’m not flying cross country.
9 - Depends on how much it can hold, quality, and other features. For something that can flexible take an average (1,500 -2,000 point) army to the store with space for books and stuff, probably $100-200.
10 - Good luck with your project!

1 citadel cases (old and current kinds) for the models. Overnight bag for everything else.

2 28mm, mix of infantry and vehicles/monsters. Probably around 30-50 infantry and 2-3 bigger models.

3 Rulebook, codex, supplement, notebook, cards, dice tin, tape measure, and a pen.

4 when models break in them when properly put in.

5 sized to fit contents, designated compartments, appreciation that you might need to add none hobby items (drink, deodorant etc). Either that or small enough to fit into a regular gym bag or rucksack.

6 It doesn't bother me at all, but discretion in design I would go for rather than one which was overtly a toy soldier case.

7 One system per trip.

8 hard case with soft foam.

9 depends on too many factors to give a useful answer. I'd pay more for a leather bag than a canvas one, for instance. If it could carry every I need safely for a 2k game, all books cards dice etc as well, and everything was in the same place on arrival as when I left, and it was a good quality bag/case, I'd be prepared to pay £150+.

10 lockable zips/clasps are a feature I'd prefer. If it's a case then the ability to stack them neatly would make it more saleable.

I use a postal carrier bag like these. The winning feature is the strap is off center. See how it's attached closer to your body? Really makes all the difference in the world. So much easier to carry, rides right on the hip.

This is all really good stuff so far guys!!!!

keep it up!

#1 thing for me is don't make it look like a gaming case - I don't need to be flashing dragons and 2 headed eagles to everyone at work. The people that want to fly their geek flag will have no problem sewing on patches and flags and whatnot.

1 - what do you currently use to transport models?

KR Multicase in a backpack (just a regular backpack, not their custom one).

2 - what sized models/ how many do you usually take to game?

Typical Kings of War army, 100-150 minis with a few larger ones.

3 - how many books/ dice/ other equipment do you take?

Rulebook, cube of 36 dice, tape measure, counters.

4 - What is the most annoying thing about hobby cases?

There's generally nothing for accessories (tape measure, dice, counters, rulebook) to be stored in.

5 - what features do you really like about hobby cases?

Keeps the minis safe and organized, an army goes in the box and stays there until the next game.

6 - do you feel comfortable being in public with a gaming case?

Case shouldn't be visible and identifiable, needs to be in a bag.

7 - how many gaming systems are you likely to take with you in a trip?

Only one.

8 - do you prefer a hard case, a bag, or a combination?

combination, hard case inside a bag or satchel.

A bag, either backpack or satchel. Nothing conspicuous.

9 - how much would you be willing to spend on a hobby case that could safely and stylishly transport your models?

£30-£40

10- what do you think about having several sized case options?

Sounds good.

11 - how would you carry your case, for example, by a handle, a carry strap or backpack?

Carry strap or backpack

12 - any other comments you wish to make?

Needs to be lightweight, I walk for 2 hours with the thing.

Would really like to see a properly done magnetic case, foam gets expensive and doesn't work well for larger or awkwardly shaped minis.

Cryptek of Awesome wrote:
#1 thing for me is don't make it look like a gaming case - I don't need to be flashing dragons and 2 headed eagles to everyone at work. The people that want to fly their geek flag will have no problem sewing on patches and flags and whatnot.

And also don't make it look like a gun/photography case as people think it looks expensive and steal it.

Foam and cardboard which fits into a bag is the best solution so far. I am also a magnetic guy, so i like foam combined with metal bottoms opposed to foam so they stick to magnet on the bottom and foam on the sides.

 Tiny_Titan wrote:



1 - what do you currently use to transport models?
2 - what sized models/ how many do you usually take to game?
3 - how many books/ dice/ other equipment do you take?
4 - What is the most annoying thing about hobby cases?
5 - what features do you really like about hobby cases?
6 - do you feel comfortable being in public with a gaming case?
7 - how many gaming systems are you likely to take with you in a trip?
8 - do you prefer a hard case, a bag, or a combination?
9 - how much would you be willing to spend on a hobby case that could safely and stylishly transport your models?
10- what do you think about having several sized case options?
11 - how would you carry your case, for example, by a handle, a carry strap or backpack?
12 - any other comments you wish to make?

1.citadel crusader case

2.32 warriors,ghost ark(and yes lots of snapping has occurred),8 wraiths,triarch stalker(pain in the ass to to fit),lychguard etc

3.codex ,rule book,plastic baggy of dice,objective cards

4.stiff foam, small straps(im a pretty tall guy), unwieldy

5.soft foam that can be cut into, backpacks, proper depth, no giant look a nerd sign

6. nope its awkward to carry around and the straps to short for me

7. none

8. something like krs bag cases which can hold the cardboard cases

9. £100 max though £65 would be golden

10. good idea

11.backpack, especially one that doesn't look like I'm going on a hike

12. nope

 Tiny_Titan wrote:
4 - What is the most annoying thing about hobby cases?

I think the thing that bugs me the most is that a lot of cases are quite irregular in shape. I live in the city where space is at a premium, and I have a lot of stuff, so my ideal case would be something that stacks neatly. Ornate ridges and moulded handles are just annoying. Ideally I'd want something that's about the same shape and dimensions as a Fantasy Flight game box (12"x12"), with perfectly flat sides so it can be stacked and shelved easily. I like the design of the KR multicase, which has tough cardboard boxes that can be loaded into a soft bag. The only downside is that the boxes are just brown cardboard, and kind of ugly (and the wrong shape to stack with FF or CMoN style games). Boxes need to be black and look nice on the shelf next to other games. Having an easy and presentable way of labelling the spine would also be a plus.

I found these gift boxes, which are about the closest thing to what I'd like in terms of size and look. They aren't perfect though, the lid is a bit too flappy. I also had to print off the label and glue it on, which looks alright, but not great.

1 - what do you currently use to transport models?
KR multicases of various types (except for X wing which uses screw organiser trays)
2 - what sized models/ how many do you usually take to game?
Varies wildly.
3 - how many books/ dice/ other equipment do you take?
Varies less wildly, but no more that 3 books and about a handful of dice
4 - What is the most annoying thing about hobby cases?
Pass
5 - what features do you really like about hobby cases?
External pockets for accessories
6 - do you feel comfortable being in public with a gaming case?
Yes
7 - how many gaming systems are you likely to take with you in a trip?
Usually just one due to KR's 'hotswap' system
8 - do you prefer a hard case, a bag, or a combination?
Card case in a padded bag
9 - how much would you be willing to spend on a hobby case that could safely and stylishly transport your models?
Depends how much it carries.
10- what do you think about having several sized case options?
I buy KR because of this
11 - how would you carry your case, for example, by a handle, a carry strap or backpack?
Carry strap
12 - any other comments you wish to make?
New products should be mad to be compatible with existing case sizes

 Tiny_Titan wrote:
I am an industrial design and technology student at Loughborough university.

1 - what do you currently use to transport models?
2 - what sized models/ how many do you usually take to game?
3 - how many books/ dice/ other equipment do you take?
4 - What is the most annoying thing about hobby cases?
5 - what features do you really like about hobby cases?
6 - do you feel comfortable being in public with a gaming case?
7 - how many gaming systems are you likely to take with you in a trip?
8 - do you prefer a hard case, a bag, or a combination?
9 - how much would you be willing to spend on a hobby case that could safely and stylishly transport your models?
10- what do you think about having several sized case options?
11 - how would you carry your case, for example, by a handle, a carry strap or backpack?
12 - any other comments you wish to make?

1. KR Multicase in a KR backpack, or foam trays in a gift box.
2. It varies massively. From large 40k forces, down to Necromunda/Frostgrave/Blood Bowl groups of only 10-15 models, with Afterlife skirmish forces in the middle.
3. Again, it varies. Rulebook and codeces for 40k, down to nothing or small books for skirmish games.
4. My KR multicase backpack ripped at the top because I went to visit my parents with some really heavy stiff in it and my mum picked it up by just one handle. Other than that, no real probs.
5. Space for stuff other than just models.
6. As long as it has no blatant branding on the outside.
7. Typically just one.
8. Cardboard case in a rucksack works for me
9. I really don't know.
10. That is very important.
11. Backpack is by far the best option.
12. Not right now.

1 - what do you currently use to transport models?

I'm using a combination of Plano tackle boxes, toolboxes and the odd foam tray as warranted. As others already pointed out, transport that can double as storage is a desirable thing. Whether that's as the box itself storing well or the ability to swap out some interior feature that in turn stores well, the core idea is that it's nice to not have to unpack everything to move into "long-term" storage after coming home.

2 - what sized models/ how many do you usually take to game?

Depends on the game system. X-Wing is going to be less than a dozen, but Flames of War might be the equivalent of 90+. Similarly, I have a 40k army of sorts that's 22 models, and a foot guard army that's in the hundreds.

3 - how many books/ dice/ other equipment do you take?

I would expect to be able to fit two or three books (core rules, army rules, any supplement/compendium). In terms of dice again it varies with the system being played. No less than a dozen and probably not much more than a hundred (and at that end of the range they'd be smaller dice).

4 - What is the most annoying thing about hobby cases?

Cost for what they do. This is largely dictated by them being "specialty" items of course, as the things I typically buy are less expensive because of a much larger market to sell to; camera aficionados have this far worse. Still, when I can pick up a stackable, hard-case tackle box for $20 fairly reliably, toss in a $10 stowaway and junk foam and come up with something that can transport over 100 stands of FoW infantry plus a good dozen vehicles reasonably well if not fully enclosed, it raises the question of how much the individual molded slots in a Battlefoam bag would really be worth. Battlefoam would do a better job of protection without a doubt, but with needing about 6 trays plus a bag is it going to do the job at least three times as well?

5 - what features do you really like about hobby cases?

It makes it nice to keep an army organized and together so you don't have to futz about too much to get out the door. Things that make the process of getting the models where they need to be easier should be prioritized. It's kind of like what I wish OS vendors would take to heart; while people might like the product itself, it's always a means to an end and not the end itself. Nobody starts up their computer so they can just play with the OS, they always want to DO something (create a document, read information, play a game, etc.). Design to facilitate that idea as much as possible.

6 - do you feel comfortable being in public with a gaming case?

Normally, though it depends on where in public. Walking around a mall? Sure. Ironically it'd be in the context of a gaming store/convention that I'd be more concerned; the people in those areas are much more likely to be aware of how much the things inside are worth. Also varies with how garish the branding on the bag/case is and/or subject matter. I'm not sure I'd be comfortable carrying something with OTT iconography around.

7 - how many gaming systems are you likely to take with you in a trip?

I can't see myself ever taking more than two; typically if I'm going to go through the effort of going some place to game I know what's likely to be played and/or have an opponent arranged. Still, I can see the argument for taking a small, popular system such as X-Wing if I was just going to the store to idly pass the time (which is unlikely given that I have myriad other things to do be doing instead).

8 - do you prefer a hard case, a bag, or a combination?

I prefer a hard case most of the time. It lends weight, makes it sturdy for storage (assuming it's designed to be stacked/stored; some hard cases are horrible for this due to smoothness...*cough*GW*cough*) and just "feels" better to me. I can understand the desire for bags as they're much lighter and less prone to being awkward to get through doors, it's just not the direction I typically go for.

9 - how much would you be willing to spend on a hobby case that could safely and stylishly transport your models?

Assuming a roughly 80 28-32mm model capacity around $40-60 depending on other features. While I appreciate the value of storage and transport, I don't put a premium on it especially when there are other markets that provide options. I tend to err towards the "good enough" level; my storage setups typically wouldn't survive being tossed around/turned upside down, but the cases themselves are unlikely to have that happen barring something else catastrophic happening. In any scenario I've come up with for these things flipping over, a chipped model or broken weapon generally ranks as the least of the problems.

10- what do you think about having several sized case options?

I can't think of a way to make an offering work without such a thing; 8 models for X-Wing is going to be a massive waste in a case designed to hold a foot guard army. Conversely, a case that could only fit a dozen models would be nigh-useless for transporting an Ork or Tyranid horde. Skirmish/sportsball games, especially with multiple teams might be too big for a small case but still too small for a big case. One-size-fits-all really isn't an option, though compatibility with a core foam insert is obviously possible.

11 - how would you carry your case, for example, by a handle, a carry strap or backpack?

It would vary with size. Small cases by handle, medium cases by backpack and large cases by carry strap. Thus a physically-normal human could accommodate 2 large, 1 medium and 2 smalls in a single trip without the use of outside equipment. If you need more transport than that, I would really have to question if you could bring less with you.

12 - any other comments you wish to make?

Due to the small volume you're likely to move and the design requirements this market imposes, I'm skeptical that I'm going to be in your desired demographic so take all of the above with a grain of salt.

Also, a perfect case would also come with blackjack and hookers. In fact, nevermind the blackjack and the gaming case.

1 - what do you currently use to transport models?

2 - what sized models/ how many do you usually take to game?

3 - how many books/ dice/ other equipment do you take?

4 - What is the most annoying thing about hobby cases?

5 - what features do you really like about hobby cases?

6 - do you feel comfortable being in public with a gaming case?

7 - how many gaming systems are you likely to take with you in a trip?

8 - do you prefer a hard case, a bag, or a combination?

9 - how much would you be willing to spend on a hobby case that could safely and stylishly transport your models?

10- what do you think about having several sized case options?

11 - how would you carry your case, for example, by a handle, a carry strap or backpack?

12 - any other comments you wish to make?

1) a Citadel Crusade case
2) 67 Marine size models, and 10 Rhino size tanks, with room to spare
3) a block of 27 dice, small tape measure, a small soft back rule book, templates, objective card deck, and my iPad
4) the foam is a bit soft, which means all the heavier stuff (or metal models) need to go on the bottom. Also, it doesn't fit non boxy models very well. I couldn't imagine putting my Necrons in it, or any Dark Eldar. Large models take up a ton of room as well. In the amount of space that I can fit 4 rhinos (plus razorback options, and some infantry sized guys) I can fit 1 Knight
5) the ability to safely transport a large number of models from point A to B, in a fairly stylish manner
6) how public are you talking? I feel comfortable taking it to the game store, but I wouldn't want to have to carry it around for an extended amount of time in a crowded public place (like just walking around the mall)
7) just one system, although I might carry a couple of small armies with me
8) I use a combination of case and bag. The army in the case, everything else in a backpack with multiple pockets/compartments
9) $90-100
10) I'm more of a one size fits all kind of guy, but I'd like to have a few options available to decide what that one size is
11) handles, or backpack. I wouldn't feel comfortable with just a strap, even knowing that everything would be safe
12) wash your hands after using the bathroom

Hope this helps

1 - what do you currently use to transport models?
Warmachine Battlefoam bag w/ magnarack


2 - what sized models/ how many do you usually take to game?

Mix of 32mm - 50mm for warmachine
Mix for Warhammer 40k



3 - how many books/ dice/ other equipment do you take?

Dice, tape measure, templates (blast and spray multiple.sizes)

4 - What is the most annoying thing about hobby cases?

Fitting large vehicles or mechanical without magnets

5 - what features do you really like about hobby cases?

Good pockets and craftsmanship on bf

6 - do you feel comfortable being in public with a gaming case?

Yep... Geek and Proud

7 - how many gaming systems are you likely to take with you in a trip?

1

8 - do you prefer a hard case, a bag, or a combination?

Really like my battlefoam

9 - how much would you be willing to spend on a hobby case that could safely and stylishly transport your models?

100

10- what do you think about having several sized case options?

Variety is always good. I played 50 points game in warmachine and 1850 for 40k I would like to be able to have 1 bag for each army


11 - how would you carry your case, for example, by a handle, a carry strap or backpack?

I mainly carry by handle but it would be nice to have the option to attach backpack straps.


12 - any other comments you wish to make?

Quality of Battlefoam and the affordability of army transport would go a long way.

 Tiny_Titan wrote:
I am an industrial design and technology student at Loughborough university.

1 - what do you currently use to transport models?
2 - what sized models/ how many do you usually take to game?
3 - how many books/ dice/ other equipment do you take?
4 - What is the most annoying thing about hobby cases?
5 - what features do you really like about hobby cases?
6 - do you feel comfortable being in public with a gaming case?
7 - how many gaming systems are you likely to take with you in a trip?
8 - do you prefer a hard case, a bag, or a combination?
9 - how much would you be willing to spend on a hobby case that could safely and stylishly transport your models?
10- what do you think about having several sized case options?
11 - how would you carry your case, for example, by a handle, a carry strap or backpack?
12 - any other comments you wish to make?

1. KR bags of varying sizes. Usually the Kaiser2 backpack, and either a Kaiser 1 or 2 case for more KR cases. Or, KRs Alu 2 cases.
2. For 40k models, up to 2500 points, so 28mm tanks and aircraft, with infantry. There is a KR pick-n-pluck case with the Wall of Martyrs trenches and bunker. I don't have any wraithknight-sized models.
3. Up to 3 GW codex-type books, with printouts for FAQs and lists. 50-ish dice, tape measure, 'ammo-tin' of objectives and counters, and a couple of packs of tactics and psychic cards. These all go in the pockets of the KR backpack.
4. Hobby cases look like hobby cases, so are a target for thieves who know about the hobbies. They can be bulky, and difficult to carry on the bus or bike. Also, there is usually only room for hobby-case sized boxes, and there is nowhere to carry token cases. X-wing is the main game for this, as a lot of people have plastic compartment boxes for the tokens.
5. Hobby cases have started having pockets of the right sizes. More work is needed, though.
6. With KR, there's no real issue. They are bulky but don't stand out like some others do. Here in the UK, gun cases get funny looks.
7. 2 bags, with up to 4 KR cases.
8. Hard cases in a bag works, as with KR Kaiser. KR's Aluminium cases are good, but pulling foam trays out of a deep case can be fiddly.
9. I try not to look at what I spend when getting cases, but £100 for a double custom foam set and a backpack.
10. Choice is two-edged. Too much choice is confusing, but few options means you have to look elsewhere for what you need. Having the right option is vital. Price-per-model can get quite high for big models. KR has a tray for the Necron Monolith (good), and it is 4/3 deep and 1/2 wide, needing a non-obvious case (bad).
11. Handle when loading and around the room, but backpack and strap when travelling.
12. Making a bag that looks 'normal' would be good. Canvas or camping styles would be nice. Stopping foam trays catching on each other would help. Trays often ping models out when being lifted out of a deep case. Smooth sides or card edges would probably help there.

 Fifty wrote:
4. My KR multicase backpack ripped at the top because I went to visit my parents with some really heavy stiff in it and my mum picked it up by just one handle. Other than that, no real probs.

Mine did that, but KR swapped it. Get photos and ask them about it, depending where you bought it.

And, OP, good luck with the idea.

 Tiny_Titan wrote:
...
1 - what do you currently use to transport models?
2 - what sized models/ how many do you usually take to game?
3 - how many books/ dice/ other equipment do you take?
4 - What is the most annoying thing about hobby cases?
5 - what features do you really like about hobby cases?
6 - do you feel comfortable being in public with a gaming case?
7 - how many gaming systems are you likely to take with you in a trip?
8 - do you prefer a hard case, a bag, or a combination?
9 - how much would you be willing to spend on a hobby case that could safely and stylishly transport your models?
10- what do you think about having several sized case options?
11 - how would you carry your case, for example, by a handle, a carry strap or backpack?
12 - any other comments you wish to make?

1 - a medium sized backpack and a sports handbag, filled wit a mix of tin and cardboard boxes.

2 - this depends on the game. For a largish skirmish or and RPG it is up to 20 small infantry figures, up to 10 of large infantry and a few (less than a dozen) big things like monsters, vehicles or terrain pieces. For a big regimental game its 120-150 infantry + 50 larger things.

3 - usually it is about 200 pages total, sometimes in hardcover, but sometimes I throw in a few magazines as well. Dice and tape may go in pockets, but some space is always reserved for templates, trays and, although infrequently, an army tray, used to carry stuff to the table or between them. These take up about twice the space as book.

4 - I wouldn't say that something is annoying. Inconvenient, maybe. Usually it is bulky+costly combination.

5 - for a few - a well-thought out system, like KR cases, allowing for "hot-swapping" part of the army in and out.

6 - personally I have no problem with "flashy" cases, shouting and screaming about owners quirks, but I do prefer an utilitarian design that wouldn't offend everything in vicinity. GWs eagle frequently draws weird looks from strangers. Usually quality and comfort come first, and then it is down to "label similar to those photo-bags and tourist stuff is an "OK", a loud design is "perhaps"".

7 - a single one, almost without exceptions.

8 - a combination. For carrying I'd greatly prefer a backpack, though, but boxes are great for storage. An army carrier case that doubles as a display stand would be a holy grail, but that's beyond sanity to wish for.

9 - somewhere within a usual range for a safe and stylish bag from the likes of Samsonite. 50-70 money units.

10 - I am fully supporting such options. Not necessarily copying KR features, but being in a similar category.

11 - again, I am a backpack man, but a solid (wooden or plastic) handle to grab is a must. A shoulder strap is an extra option, however it is not a decider, even on a bag.

12a - external padding for soft bags and backpacks is a must, plenty of cloth bags around, and a cardboard boxes inside do not compensate for the padding.
12b - basic waterproofing - not every place is right next to a parking lot or a bus stop.
12c - basic locking, thought out opening flap - both to prevent accidental opening and opportunistic pilfering.
12d - ergonomics, especially removing and putting in stuff in a narrow and busy place like a shop, tournament or a convention.

Good luck and lots of inspiration and perseverance!

To add to the discussion:

I, too, would love some innovative, well thought out magnetic carry case.

Slots in foam are good, but they do not prevent miniatures to tumble around a bit and thin parts getting damaged. I could see that a miniature on a magnetic base and slots with one side using material that is receptive of magnets would combine the two ideas in a useful way.

other than that I am always interested in carry cases that can be taken on board an airplane as carry on, as I would never check my painted minis.

1 - what do you currently use to transport models?

GamePlus bags with Sabol and Portable Warfare Trays.

2 - what sized models/ how many do you usually take to game?

28mm personally, but a wide variety of conversions and odd ends and bits force me to almost exclusively use pluck-foam. I lay mostly Skirmish games nowadays, but I take my entire collection when I can. Even if I only use 10 Malifaux models, having them all on-hand is nice.

As an aside, I would totally take a smaller case if I had one.

3 - how many books/ dice/ other equipment do you take?

Oftentimes, 2 hardcover books, handfull of dice, 1 'brick' of d6s, templates, and counters.

One thing that many bogs seem to be missing is a safe/reinforced place to put my templates. I've been putting them between trays nowadays as they rest safely across the foam.

Having separate areas for a bag of counters and a bag of dice would be nice, but not necessary. Just note that players use two different piles of loose plastic things nowadays.

4 - What is the most annoying thing about hobby cases?

Being available in oddball sizes that aren't compatible with what I already have.

Additionally, I'm not a fan of cases that require me to remove everything from the top in order to reach trays on the bottom. Side-open cases alleviate this problem.

5 - what features do you really like about hobby cases?

Whether it's compatible with what I already have.

6 - do you feel comfortable being in public with a gaming case?

Yes, so long as it's discreet.

Living in an urban area, I am NOT a fan of walking onto a bus or subway with a military-looking bag labeled "Portable Warfare" or "Battlefoam" with a symbol of a bomb on it. I am not going to buy that product. Keep it neutral.

7 - how many gaming systems are you likely to take with you in a trip?

One, maybe two. I travel to destinations with a single gaming system in mind.

8 - do you prefer a hard case, a bag, or a combination?

Combination so long as they all fit the same size trays.

Additionally, being able to place some trays in a container for storage on a bookcase or something is nice. Doesn't have to be hard or soft... just prevent dust accumulation.

9 - how much would you be willing to spend on a hobby case that could safely and stylishly transport your models?

Safely, yes, sure. I'm careful enough and confident enough in my foam trays that my models will be fine.

Stylishly, I don't care. If you add military symbols, camo, bomb symbols, or name your company after "battle" or "warfare" or "army", I don't want that printed on the bag. I buy "GamePlus" bags because I can take them on public transportation.

Stylishness is least concern. Cardboard boxes are good enough in that they're cheap, plentiful, a good size, and don't advertise that you're carrying weaponry onto public transportation.

10- what do you think about having several sized case options?

So long as they all hold the same sized collection of foam trays, that's good. Having a small case capable of storing a few trays of foam would be nice for casual meetups at the local store. Plus much more manageable.

It'd be nice to have long-term storage cases as well. Something I can put trays into to prevent them from gathering dust.

11 - how would you carry your case, for example, by a handle, a carry strap or backpack?

Either. Having it taller than it is wide is easier to carry.
Light preferance towards carry straps primarily because I can keep it at arm's reach at all times. My models are expensive.

12 - any other comments you wish to make?

One of the biggest factors that incluence whether I buy a case or not is whether it fits trays that I currently have or are readily available. Sabol, GamePlus, Portable Warfare, Outrider, and many other case companies all use the standard 7.5"x13" size or a multiple of that. Not having to rebuy all my trays is a ridiculously important factor. KR Multicase is fine too with their standardized 15"x10" trays even if it tends to go against the other convention. Some companies such as Battlefoam have dozens of different cases with dozens of different sizes meant to only confuse and turn away customers.

Make your cases compatible with what people already have and you'll get past a huge hurdle.

I cannot stress this enough.

This is excellent guys, the feedback has just been amazing!!! Keep it coming if you can, it will only help improve my designs further if i know what you all want

1 - what do you currently use to transport models?

mostly plastic bins w/ lids. I just bought my first foam transporter for Star Wars Armada

2 - what sized models/ how many do you usually take to game?

mostly 28mm infantry, around 20-30, plus at least 1-3 vehicles

3 - how many books/ dice/ other equipment do you take?

rulebook + codex, small box with objective markers, dice, templates, ruler, cards

4 - What is the most annoying thing about hobby cases?
no place for books and extras

5 - what features do you really like about hobby cases?

individual compartments for each model

6 - do you feel comfortable being in public with a gaming case?

yes

7 - how many gaming systems are you likely to take with you in a trip?

one

8 - do you prefer a hard case, a bag, or a combination?

hard case preferred, stiff shaped foam/cloth case is acceptable. Cardboard is ugly.

9 - how much would you be willing to spend on a hobby case that could safely and stylishly transport your models?

I literally spent $85 last week on a case to hold all existing waves of Empire for Star Wars Armada

10- what do you think about having several sized case options?

A must, as is stackable foam trays

11 - how would you carry your case, for example, by a handle, a carry strap or backpack?

Strap. I would *never* buy a backpack for models. A case with wheels and handles would also be acceptable

12 - any other comments you wish to make?

What about a fold-out dice tower/dice tray for a hard case?

1 - what do you currently use to transport models?
Old style GW case for infantry, I cut out dividers/bottoms of upper trays to make holes for more fragile tanks and large models to sit in. A shoe box for boxy tanks like rhinos.
2 - what sized models/ how many do you usually take to game?

100+ Infantry models that i'm slowly switching to 32mm sized bases. 40mm sized Termie/ogyrn sized models are current difficult to transport.

3 - how many books/ dice/ other equipment do you take?

3-4 hard cover books, dice bag, templets, and a phone charger. I carry these items in a book bag in adition to the case. Not interested in a case that would carry these items.

4 - What is the most annoying thing about hobby cases?

I hate pick-pluck foam. I would rather take a sharp hobby knife and cut the foam myself.

5 - what features do you really like about hobby cases?

I like when they have a range of travel cases and cheaper storage cases made of cardboard for storage.

6 - do you feel comfortable being in public with a gaming case?

Some times no, but not because of being embarrassed by gaming! I hate the case looks like their is something expensive inside of it, that may make it a target for theft. Let's just say alot of stores not in great locations.

7 - how many gaming systems are you likely to take with you in a trip?

Just one.

8 - do you prefer a hard case, a bag, or a combination?

Hard cases for travel, Cardboard cases for storage.

9 - how much would you be willing to spend on a hobby case that could safely and stylishly transport your models?

$100-$150 range would be ideal. No more then $200 CAD. That fact alot of battle foam cases can easily be more then $200 CAD if you want a load-out that dosen't include pick and pluck foam, makes me shy away from them.

10- what do you think about having several sized case options?

A travel and a econo storage case is a must, plus trays all being interchangeable in the system. diff sized travel cases after this, is a plus.

11 - how would you carry your case, for example, by a handle, a carry strap or backpack?

Carry Strap and/or Handel.

12 - any other comments you wish to make?

I HATE PICK AND PLUCK FOAM. The bottom of the tray ends up with glue that your models stick to once you puck the foam out, and in the long run the trays just to rip apart after being pulled out of the bags repeated times. I would rather have multiple infantry trays, that I cut walls out of and bottoms out of to put tank inside of. I find I fit more inside the same space this way, then pick N' Pluck "tank trays".

Heck, I would rather a company sell "make your own" foam trays. Sell me a "blank" foam tray and it's bottom and let me cut out my own custom slots for my models with a sharp/new exacto knife.

http://creativetwilight.com/making-your-own-foam-trays/

Custom Cut trays are so over-rated and a waste. It's just so easy to do, their is no reason not to offer this to what is a hobbyist market. I just want the trays and bottoms pre-cut to fit inside your cases, then i cut them myself. This solution is also so much better then the mess you make from pick and pluck foam.

P.S. feldherr mini's somehow got a deal together to sell their bags threw Amazon, to sell threm thru amazon wearhouse. This helps alot with shipping on the customer's end, has made them some of the best shipping on bags here in canada. I don't know how they did this, or why now they don't sell the full range of bags and econo bags thru amazon. But was super nice when they did. Got some of their econo boxes for storage since the foam is interchangeable with old style GW cases.

my design is coming along nicely! I am currently making a CAD model and will then set about doing a focus group session with my gaming group. From there I will make a model of the real thing!

1 - what do you currently use to transport models?
KR multicase Kaiser 4

2 - what sized models/ how many do you usually take to game?
28 mm models with matching vehicles(GW space marines or Orks), usually around 2000 points, the amount of models therefore differs drastically when I play marines or works.
On average it's 50-70 infantry + 5-15 vehicles.

3 - how many books/ dice/ other equipment do you take?
Usually a hardcover rulebook and 2 to 4 softcover books, a box'o'dice, templates, markers, counters, a tape measure and several decks of cards.

4 - What is the most annoying thing about hobby cases?
Having to go through several layers of foam to reach a model.

5 - what features do you really like about hobby cases?
I really like being able to fit smaller trays into a larger case, so I can mix'n'match the models i need for the game. I tend to with a lot in my army list each battle.

6 - do you feel comfortable being in public with a gaming case?
Yes.

7 - how many gaming systems are you likely to take with you in a trip?
Just one.

8 - do you prefer a hard case, a bag, or a combination?
Hardcase or combination + something like the cardboard cases KR uses to store excess foam trays.

9 - how much would you be willing to spend on a hobby case that could safely and stylishly transport your models?
Anywhere between $100-200, depending on practical use and style.

10- what do you think about having several sized case options?
Great idea, i like to take the bag that matches my game size the most.

11 - how would you carry your case, for example, by a handle, a carry strap or backpack?
Backpack preferably, with a handle as well, I dislike a carrystrap because most cases are too large to really make use of it.

12 - any other comments you wish to make?
The easier it would be to change a foam tray in the gaming case, the more I would like it

1 - what do you currently use to transport models?
KR Multicase - A mix of their aluminium and card ranges.

2 - what sized models/ how many do you usually take to game?
I usually take 50-100 metal infantry and 2-3 tanks for a 1000-1500 40K game.

3 - how many books/ dice/ other equipment do you take?
Two books, bag of dice, tape measure, box of cards, and markers. I also take a tray to move my army off the table if at a tourney.

4 - What is the most annoying thing about hobby cases?
Trays not fitting the depth and resulting in figures escaping their sections.
Handles that hurt hands after a while/

5 - what features do you really like about hobby cases?
Locks. Shoulder straps.

6 - do you feel comfortable being in public with a gaming case?
I'm not going to hide in a crowd anyway, so I don't care.

7 - how many gaming systems are you likely to take with you in a trip?
Two, max.

8 - do you prefer a hard case, a bag, or a combination?
Hard case with a shoulder strap.

9 - how much would you be willing to spend on a hobby case that could safely and stylishly transport your models?
Up to £60 which is how much it costs to get a custom filled metal case which will hold a 1500-2000pts army.

10- what do you think about having several sized case options?
I think it makes sense.

11 - how would you carry your case, for example, by a handle, a carry strap or backpack?
Shoulder strap or inside a backpack.

12 - any other comments you wish to make?
Avoid any novelty foam patterns like the current GW zig-zags. They don't work well with heavy metal models.
Learn from other cases. Softer foam means the model isn't taking the impact.