I bought this hardcase for an Ltd EC1000 that came without case or gigbag. As I have quite a bunch of instruments, I made a habit of keeping every one in a hardcase, for storage and protection. I have hardcases by Gator covered in leather, tweed or other materials. Nice cases, but never got the feeling they were totally closed (tweed gets stained, leather scratched). I have a couple of Skb cases, and those did give me that sturdy, protected feeling, although on 1 case it is a bit difficult to close it right, it's a bit wonky. This case is the mix of all the best ingredients of all my cases: very sturdy, won't wear as easily, can stand upright on its own with the guitar inside (sometimes very helpful) but with the best locking hinges of all the other cases. Fits my guitar with strap attached but without wiggle room, and the storage pouch inside can hold some picks, spare strings, a clip on tuner, some cleaning products and a cloth. Best case I ever had, including some boutique and bigger brands.