What is pick ‘n’ pluck foam? Also called, Pinch & Tear, Diced Foam, Pick and Pluck and Perforated Foam. You’re not the first to ask this question and surly wont be the last.
Chances are after shopping for a case such as Pelican or SKB you have stumbled on the terminology “Pick ‘N’ Pluck” and are wondering what it is? Read on to find out.
Pick ‘N’ Pluck is foam often sold with cases, but can also be bought separately. It’s usually sold in 1.35# which means a 12″x12″x12″ block of the foam weighs 1.35 lbs. The foam itself is normal, but what makes it so unique is the way it’s cut. The foam is pre-scored so that individual little squares of foam can be “ripped” out of the inside.
Think of it like tearing a piece of paper out of a notebook. The edge of the paper is perforated which means tearing it along that edge is easier. Pick ‘N’ Pluck foam is similar in concept. The small cubes of foam can be pulled out because they are only held in by a thin attachment on each edge of the cube. (see the picture below)
The cubes are held in by attached edges (circled in red)
Pick ‘N’ Pluck foam is sold in multiple layers if the case is too deep for just 1 layer. With multiple layers of foam, different configurations can be made like the example below.
When buying a case with foam it is critical for you to consider the capabilities of Pick ‘N’ Pluck. The following is the list of Pro’s and Con’s compiled from customer opinions.
| Pro’s | Con’s |
| Very Inexpensive | Can fall apart over time |
| A Fast Solution | Once plucked, the cubes cannot be put back in |
| Do-it-yourself (if you’re hands on) | Plucking is tedious for multiple cases |
| Requires little effort as far as planning | Does not have a professional look |
| Replacement Pick ‘N’ Pluck can be easily bought | Can be somewhat tough to correctly fit your item |
An upgrade from Pick ‘N’ Pluck Foam is Custom Foam which can be an easy solution if you’re worried about one of the cons above.
For more information on Pick ‘N’ Pluck Foam visit Case Club Carrying & Shipping Cases.