Cases
What is a Gun Case?
A gun case is a protective container designed to store and transport firearms or air guns safely. It shields your gear from impact, moisture, dust, and damage while keeping it discreet and easy to carry.
There are two main types of gun cases:
- Hard Cases -- Durable plastic or composite shells with foam inserts, to protect against impact and travel.
- Soft Cases -- Lightweight, padded fabric with zippers and carry handle built for quick, casual range trips and lighter duty transport.
You'll also find padded gun cases, compact gun carrying cases, and custom-fit cases designed for specific rifle lengths and scopes.
How Gun Cases Work
A gun carrying case works by enclosing your firearm or air gun in a protective shell or sleeve. The case prevents damage during storage or transit by cushioning the pistol or rifle and absorbing shocks from drops or bumps. It also helps keep out dust, dirt, and moisture, preserving your investment and ensuring reliable performance.
- Hard gun cases are ideal for travel, law enforcement use, or shipping. Their molded shells and foam cutouts hold your gun firmly in place.
- Soft gun cases provide padded protection with zippers, handles, and shoulder straps. They're ideal for daily transport or quick access.
- Padded gun cases strike a balance, offering soft-side convenience with added impact protection.
A well-made gun case also includes storage for extra magazines, optics, tools, or ammo, keeping all your gear organized in one place.
Choosing the Right Gun Case
There are several; factors you need to consider when choosing a gun case (or guncase). For example, whether you are traveling with your gun or using it locally. The size of your gun will also impact your case decision. Are you using it for a rifle, a pistol, or both?
Gun cases come in a variety of shapes and sizes from soft to hard-sided. Soft gun cases are less expensive but offer less protection. Hard gun cases can hold more guns but cost more. It's important to consider all these factors before making a decision.
The Right Size Gun Case
Most people have more than one gun. And it's important that each one has a case that fits it well and provides it the proper protection. Most cases are measured in inches, so you'll need to know the length of your gun from muzzle to buttstock and get a case that's a few inches longer. You'll also have to account for its height, especially if it has a scope mounted to it. Some cases are made narrow for a single gun with no scope, and others are made wide for either two guns, or one gun with a scope mounted.
Hard Case vs Soft Case
Both hard cases and soft cases have their benefits. A hard gun carrying case offers better protection against impacts and often has space for locks to add extra security when traveling. While soft gun cases are heavily padded, the impact protection is less than a hard shell case. A soft gun case can also be easier to carry because it has flexible straps that offer multiple carrying positions. For most people choosing between a hard case or a soft case comes down to choosing between convenience versus protection. Whichever option you choose, be sure it's the right size for your gun.