Cases & Range Bags
Guide to firearm cases and range bags. Hard cases, soft cases, and range bags for safe transport to the range or on travels.
A quality case protects your investment during transport and helps ensure compliance with transport laws. Whether you need a basic range bag or a bombproof travel case, this guide covers your options.
Safety Notice
Transport requirements vary by jurisdiction. Many areas require firearms to be unloaded, cased, and locked during transport. Research your local and any destination laws before traveling.
Hard Cases vs. Soft Cases
Hard Cases
Rigid cases with foam interiors provide maximum protection:
- Pros: Impact protection, crush resistance, waterproof options, lockable
- Cons: Heavier, bulkier, more expensive
- Best for: Air travel, high-value firearms, rough transport conditions
Soft Cases
Padded fabric cases offer convenience:
- Pros: Lightweight, flexible, affordable, easier storage
- Cons: Less protection, not suitable for checked luggage
- Best for: Local range trips, quick transport
Range Bags
Range bags combine firearm transport with gear organization. Look for:
- Padded pistol compartments
- Magazine and ammunition pockets
- Space for eye/ear protection
- Room for cleaning supplies
- Durable construction and stitching
Air Travel Requirements
Flying with firearms requires:
- Hard-sided, lockable case: Only the traveler should have keys/combination
- TSA-approved locks: Non-TSA locks that only you can open
- Unloaded firearm: Verified empty by airline check-in
- Declaration: You must declare the firearm at check-in
- Ammunition: Must be in original packaging or designed container
Always check current TSA regulations and airline policies before traveling.
Top Recommendations
Pelican 1750 Protector Long Case
Best for: Air travel and maximum protection
Premium crushproof, dustproof, and IP67 waterproof rifle case with automatic pressure equalization valve. Fits rifles up to 50.5" with customizable foam interior. Lifetime guarantee of excellence.
Pros
- + Indestructible build
- + Lifetime warranty
- + TSA-approved with locks
Cons
- - Heavy at 18 lbs empty
- - Premium price
Savior Equipment Specialist Range Bag Backpack
Best for: Regular range trips
Versatile 3-pistol padded range backpack with lockable zippers, MOLLE webbing, and dedicated compartments for magazines, ammo, and accessories.
Pros
- + Well-organized compartments
- + Padded 3-pistol pockets
- + Durable 600D polyester
Cons
- - Large size may be overkill
- - Not weatherproof
Plano All Weather 2 Rifle Case 42"
Best for: Budget-friendly hard case
Weather-resistant hard case with continuous Dri-Loc seal and pluck-to-fit foam interior. Affordable protection for rifles up to 42 inches.
Pros
- + Excellent price
- + Weather resistant Dri-Loc seal
- + Pluck-to-fit foam
Cons
- - Not as rugged as Pelican
- - Latches less robust
Uncle Mike's Pistol Rug Medium
Best for: Basic handgun transport
Padded soft case for medium-frame handguns. Quiet-open zipper design with durable nylon exterior and thick foam padding.
Pros
- + Very affordable
- + Compact and lightweight
- + Adequate padding
Cons
- - Minimal protection
- - No storage pockets
Measuring for a Case
- • Measure overall firearm length (longest dimension)
- • Add 2-3 inches for foam padding
- • Consider optics height if mounted
- • Check internal case dimensions, not external
Related Reviews
Travel Guide
Planning a trip with your firearm? Our Transport & Travel guide covers legal considerations and preparation in detail. Read the guide →
Affiliate Disclosure: FirearmCharm.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Our recommendations are based on thorough research and are not influenced by commission rates.