Messina Covers King 2341 Body & Recording Bell Bags

[MG]

I recently received my new Messina Covers gig bags for a King 2341 recording bell tuba. I had one case made for the body of the horn and one for the bell. David did a wonderful job in the design and construction of the bags. They are made of very durable materials, strong zippers, etc. His “how to” video allowed me to get accurate measurements of the horn. The tracing and accurate measurements allow David to design a bag that is balanced in weight. Whether I am carrying it by the handles or using it as a backpack, the weight of the horn is evenly distributed. So many other gig bags I’ve had have been very cumbersome and clumsy to carry. Not his one. Even the ergonomics of the bell bag was very well thought out. The handles are placed in such a way the the bag does not wobble or bounce against your body when carrying. David was happy with my tracings and measurements, Even still, to be sure of the fit, he borrowed a 2341 recording bell from Martin Wilk. Thanks for going the extra mile, David.

There were two main things I was looking for when ordering this bag through Messina Covers. To have a gig bag for the body that I could carry like a backpack and a bell bag that would accommodate either bell (recording bell or the upright bell). As the upright bell is 3” less in diameter and not as tall as the recording bell, I felt confident that having the bag designed for the recording bell alone would still accommodate the upright bell securely. All goals met! The best part about a gig bag for the body only is that I don’t end up walking with the bell part / top of the bag pushing my neck and head forward. And one plus that I did not foresee: often I have found myself carrying my horns up and down tight stairwells and shorter doorways. My full size bags would almost always catch on the top of the doorway and I would have to (uncomfortably and awkwardly) squat down with the horn on my back. That has not been an issue with this bag.

The body and bell fit beautifully. They are easy to get in and out of the bags, they zip up easily and all is secure and very well padded. The King 2341 is not easy to carry around without the bag. Especially with the recording bell. A beast to carry to be frank and thus open to damage when doing so. I now have a way to easily transport the horn and keep it protected when it sits all day at work before an evening gig. Kudos to David and Messina Covers.

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/ ... mgMKvt51St

[prairieboy1]

An excellent review of the gig bag for your King 2341! I have purchased four bags from David and am very happy to have done so. The quality of the bags is first class and they will last me for as long as I am able to continue playing. Enjoy your purchase!!

[Three Valves]

[Kirley]

Nice! I really like the 2-part design. I love recording bells but they always add some transportation challenges.

In fact I've been thinking about this a lot recently as I've just added a horn to the herd. More to come on that.

[Three Valves]

I’d like to see leather handles on those.