Storage for Custom Slides/Trumpet Parts

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If you’re like me, you have at least one trumpet that plays in multiple keys. You might even have multiple tuning slides, a set of slide extension shims, or an extra set of swappable leadpipes! Below I share my favorite ways to store these auxiliary parts that allows for protection, easy access, organization, and portability. I have a dead simple solution for a single set of additional valve slides, and a more involved and satisfying solution for lots of parts and larger components.

Product links here.

Schilke E3L Eb/D Trumpet

for a single set of additional valve slides

Protec Trombone/Alto Sax/Clarinet Mouthpiece Pouch

Pros

Affordable: Around $20 on Amazon (as of October 2023)
Individual Slots: each slide has its own spot, separated by a neoprene layer to avoid metal-on-metal contact.
Portable: These can fit in any trumpet case slot when I need to take them to a gig.

Cons

Small interior: Though it fits 1st, 2nd and 3rd valve slides easily (especially for higher keyed trumpets), it won’t fit main tuning slides or other larger auxiliary pieces like leadpipes.

for lots of parts or large components

PROTECTIVE HARD CASE WITH CUSTOMIZABLE FOAM

Pros

Affordable: $20-30 range depending on size
Versatile: The 11” case can fit so many different products, and with 3 layers of perforated foam, it can be customized to fit all kinds of equipment, including slides, leadpipes, and even mouthpieces!
Protective: There is enough foam around the perimeter to protect my trumpet parts and components, and the quality of the material (zipper, outer shell) is quite good for the price.
Multiple Sizes: It comes in 11”, 8.5” and 7.5” sizes. I bought the 11” for my rotary trumpet “kit” (including 2 tuning slides, 3 leadpipes, a Weimann Tone Ring, and 2 customizable length slides for my 4th valve) and a 7.5” to store a single custom A trumpet slide and the two shims that set the 1st and 3rd slides to the key of A on my Yamaha 9335CHS Bb.

Cons

Time to Make: It did take me about an hour with my wife to map and tear out all the right squares, but you do only have to do this once.
Thick foam layers: The 11” case had pretty thick foam layers (about 1.5”), which allowed for some deep storage, but I did end up cutting some of the stray foam into half layers and stuffing it back in to keep the parts snug.
Not Indestructible: There are definitely more protective cases out there in the $50-$200 range, but I don’t plan on putting it in the belly of an airplane or throwing it into white water rapids. I just needed a way to store the parts safely and carry them to work. The outer shell is fairly hard (made from EVA) but not like wood, fiberglass, or carbon fiber.