SKB Bow Cases: iSeries Shaped and Parallel Limb Cases Explained

Fletchwise guides are independent and hype-free – we are not sponsored by any archery brand.

SKB is a long-established maker of molded hard cases, and its bow cases are a common recommendation among hunters who fly or drive long distances with a bow. They are sold in several sizes, and some are marketed as sized for particular bow makers. This page is independent of SKB. It explains the choices so you can decide whether one suits your bow.

Parallel limb is a bow design, not just a case design. If your bow has parallel limbs, a parallel limb case is usually the better match, but always measure.

Interior sizes quoted on retailer listings for current SKB iSeries cases include roughly 35 by 14 by 5 inches for a small parallel limb case and roughly 40 by 14.5 by 5 inches for a medium one. A shaped case is listed for bows up to about 41 inches long and 17 inches wide, with an interior around 41 by 17 by 6 inches. A larger single and double case is listed with an interior of about 46 by 18 by 7.5 inches. These figures come from retailer listings, which sometimes show outside dimensions instead of inside ones, so confirm each on the maker’s page.

Check the numbers yourself. Case dimensions and bow compatibility change between model years and between retailers’ listings. Treat the figures here as a guide, then confirm interior size and the fitment list on the manufacturer’s page before you buy.

1. Measure your bow axle to axle, and measure its width across the limbs and cams.
2. Add whatever you leave attached. Sights, stabilizers, quivers and rests change how it fits.
3. Compare against the interior length, width and depth of the case, not the outside size.
4. Check the fitment list if the case is sold as sized for a particular bow.
5. Allow for the foam. Cut foam can be adjusted, but not enlarged.

• Latches. Strong, positive latches matter on a case that will be thrown around.
• Locks. Locking points let you secure the case for travel.
• Seal and pressure valve. These matter for weather and altitude.
• Foam. Pluck-and-cut foam is easier to customize. Pre-cut foam is quicker if the shape matches your bow.
• Weight. A hard case is heavy, which matters on a flight with a weight limit.

A hard case is the best protection for travel. If you mostly drive to the range, a soft case may be enough and weighs far less. Our hard bow cases guide and soft bow cases guide compare the two, and the best bow cases page has a shortlisting checklist.

• What are the interior length, width and depth, and does my bow fit with its accessories on?
• Is the case sized for a named list of bows, and is mine on it?
• How heavy is the empty case, and will it push my bag over an airline limit?
• Is the foam pre-cut or can I shape it?
• Where do I put a quiver, a release and small parts?

Many shaped hard cases have lid storage for a quiver, arrows or small accessory boxes. This keeps the bow area clear and the small parts together. Make sure the lid contents cannot press on the limbs or the string when the case closes, and keep broadheads in a protected container.

Wipe the shell clean and check the latches and hinges for dirt or damage. Let the foam dry fully before you close the case for storage, because trapped moisture can cause mildew. Store the case in a cool, dry place, and replace compressed foam when it no longer holds your bow firmly.

The model numbers on SKB iSeries cases follow a pattern worth knowing. A number like 3i-4214-PL has four digits that appear to describe the case’s outside length and width in inches, here about 42 by 14. The suffix PL stands for parallel limb. The 3614 is about 36 by 14, and the 4719 about 47 by 19. Treat this as a hint, not a specification, because the interior is smaller than the outside, and what matters for fit is the interior listed by the maker.

Hard cases are heavy before you put the bow in. Listings for small and medium iSeries cases show roughly 17 to 19 pounds empty. Many airlines set a standard weight limit for checked bags, and fees apply above it, but policies vary. Add the weight of the case, the bow and anything in the lid, then compare the total with your airline’s limit before you travel.

SKB is not the only option. Other makers sell hard bow cases, including Plano and Pelican, and Elevation sells a Mathews-sized shield-style case that one listing shows with an interior of about 41 by 16 by 3.5 inches. Whichever you choose, compare the interior size, the weight and the latch and seal features rather than the brand. Our best bow cases page has a checklist that works with any maker.

A strong shell protects against impact and crushing. It does not stop the bow moving inside. If the foam does not hold the bow firmly, limbs, cams and the string can be damaged even when the case looks perfect from the outside. Press gently on the bow in the closed-and-latched case from above, and see whether it moves.

We make custom bow bags and quivers with names and club logos, from one piece. Tell us what your club needs.

See Custom Archery Gear