iPod How careful do I need to be with my iPod Classic?

[Mushrooshi]

How careful would I need to be to make sure my iPod's HDD doesn't break or get damaged?

 

[Warbrain]

It's able to withstand a decent amount of abuse, but if it worries you, get Applecare.

 

[combatcolin]

Treat it with respect and it will last 10 years.

 

[hexonxonx]

I've dropped my 160GB a few times. One was when it slipped off the edge of the kitchen table onto a tile floor. The second was while syncing, it slipped off the coffee table onto the carpeted floor. Both times it was fine, I had it in a case.

 

[Canerican]

Applecare doesn't cover you dropping your iPod or water damage. Keep your iPod in a good case and it should last.
Also if you are playing a sport that you might get hit or fall, no brainer, take your iPod out of your pocket. I fell on my 5G iPod playing football and gave it a huge dent and cracked the cover. (It still worked and I just replaced the cases myself)
It can take alot of wear and even abuse, but everything has a breaking point. Don't push it too far. The classic is likely the most sturdy, and definately better than the G1 and G2 nanos (they would fall from 3 feet and be toast)