MIMF

Im getting closer to needing a reasonably priced hardshell case for my 17" arch top.
Which ones are worthy ? which ones should not be considered. My guitar is very typical of a 17" arch top,nothing extreme.

Ameritage cases are reasonable in my book. They're a bit heavy but certainly are strong. http://www.ameritage.com/index.html

The best is Calton Case Company. http://www.calton-cases.com/

Or, search on eBay and make sure you've got the dimensions right!

Saga has a case that will work. It is designed for their J200 style jumbo 12 string guitar. You might benefit from adding some internal pads for suspension of the instrument. Simple stuff to do.

I have used Harptone, TKL, Cedar creek, Ameritage, Calton, and Saga. It really depends on your desired degree of protection and your bank account. For traveling to shows etc. I suggest Calton cases with a fabric case cover. Ameritage are very nice cases and for the quality they are not overly expensive. TKL/Cedar Creek make a decent sturdy case and will customize them for you. Saga cases are imported and are not "flight cases" but will provide reasonable protection for your instrument at a fairly low price. $.02

Also, check out TKL. Their cases will be available online at various outlets. The quality is high. The price is very reasonable. You state you have a 17" archtop guitar, which is a standard size. Unless you have a custom feature (such as the D'Angelico "teardrop" shape) requiring a custom case, you will be just fine with a TKL case.

I ordered a TKL case for the 17" arch top that I made. Then I began to compare the case with a brand name case on another 17" arch top that I own. There is very little doubt in my mind that TKL made my brand name case, too.