Rugged and durable, the OtterBox Defender Series case for iPad 4 is absolutely a reliable soldier in the trenches of defense against daily pitfalls of use.

But first you have to get the iPad into the case—and that took a little bit of help from an impromptu tool and a YouTube video.

OtterBox has been making cases for some time, and this updated three-layer hard-shelled edition comes with a two-piece frame, built-in screen protection, and a stand that allows for four positions.

The idea is to protect it from dust, drops, and scratches—all easily possible, as the well-guarded iPad can also become something of a placemat and coaster as confidence grows with its use. There is no promise that the case is waterproof.

Smart-looking, the two-piece case is touted as something to snap together. Well, it can be, but not exactly in a snap.

The hard case ($89.95 to $99.95, available in several colors) has openings for button and port usage and also a couple of snazzy latches for enhanced protection. The cover that safeguards the iPad doubles as a cool adjustable stand allowing for two horizontal and vertical positions each.

The lid has a nifty feature: four reinforced corners. They not only allow the iPad a snug fit, but also provide more protection should the case be dropped on a usually vulnerable corner.

The instructions are precise for getting the iPad into the case, with users having to peel away the outer silicone casing. No problem there.

But users must unhinge the snaps on the four sides of the case. Handy arrows show where they are.

However, they didn’t budge. A trip to the OtterBox website found a video on how to assemble the case, and wouldn’t you know it—those snaps became undone just fine. A spin over to YouTube found an independent video that addressed the problem with a small screwdriver-type of tool.

Channeling an inner McGyver, the corner of a nearby metal ruler did the trick just fine, and in no time it was back to the instructions.

Assembly done, the case and iPad were put to several weeks of use, inside and out, and included travel by plane and being carried about on the trails in a backpack. The case certainly instills confidence and there weren’t any concerns about dropping the pack down on the ground rather firmly while forgetting the iPad was inside.

The movable stand was handy and allowed both typing and tapping. The screen appeared bright and clear.

But there were times at which it felt as though the tap had to be a bit harder. That sensation was even more prevalent while using the shielded sleep-wake mode button. On many occasions more pressure was needed than usual for the button to work. It always did, but in a world where to many taps or clicks can cause hissy fits among some, that may grate on a few users over time.

The screen protector may also cause a few winces when it comes to the retina display. Without the cover, looking good. With the cover, you can see—albeit miniscule—the tiny pixels in the cover. That could prove maddening to some.

Glare? It’s there, too—sometimes.

All in all, the OtterBox is a quality product, but the next generation should address that retina display.

Images by Marty Basch