When you sell a new precision bolt-action rifle, AR or competition pistol, it’s your job to make sure the customer has a premium gun case to keep it safe and secure. It could be argued that a good case is as important as the gun purchase for both parties — a means of protecting the owner’s investment and an avenue for increased revenue for the shooting sports retailer.
Gun cases are the unsung heroes of the shooting sports world, quietly going about the business of keeping guns, optics and other gear safe from damage while in transit or during storage. There are hardshell as well and softshell models and many are watertight. Key features typically include high-density foam padding, heavy-duty hinges, padlock loops and a cushioned grip handle. Some can be customized to accommodate optics such as a riflescope, bino and rangefinder.
For today’s hunters/shooters — and shooting sports retailers — there has never been a better time regarding the number of fine gun cases that are on the market. There are makes and models to fit every conceivable situation and application, keeping equipment safe and gear organized. Here are eight top-shelf models designed with discriminating gun enthusiasts in mind.
Aleon 16-inch Vertical Opening Case
Crafted for durability and precision, the 16-inch Vertical Opening Case from Aleon delivers rugged yet lightweight protection for firearms and other valuable gear. Its aircraft-grade aluminum body, reinforced corners and TSA-approved lock make it a great solution for secure firearm storage. Designed with function in mind, the case features a vertical-opening lid and a continuous rubber seal, offering quick access while keeping contents protected from dust and moisture. It’s available with an optional custom insert for added organization but is otherwise sold empty — ready to adapt to the user’s specific needs. The Aleon 16-inch Vertical Opening Case weighs just 4.2 pounds, with external dimensions of 16.4 (length) x 11.7 (width) x 4.3 (height) inches. MSRP: $160.
KOR Gun Case Panel System The KOR Gun Case Panel System is a revolutionary, infinitely reusable vacuum rigidizing structure (VRS) that protects valuable assets during transport. It offers superior shock and vibration absorption — especially at lower frequencies — through millions of micro media touchpoints. VRS technology enables fast, tool-free reconfiguration and doesn’t require an outer casing, reducing weight and volume while increasing load capacity. The KOR Gun Case Panel System is flame resistant and contaminant-resistant, has recyclable fill, is easy to clean and is environmentally friendly. The system includes one 50- x 13-inch double panel, one 50- x 13-inch single panel, KOR pump and patch kit. It has a thermal stability rating of -50F to 150F and is altitude tested to 30,000 feet. MSRP: $299.
MTM Case-Gard Carbine Rifle Case
MTM Case-Gard has unleashed the Carbine Rifle Case, based on its single- and double-rifle cases for the modern shooter who demands reliability, durability and versatility. Tailor-made for short-barreled rifles, pistol caliber carbines, breakdown shotguns and compact ARs, this case delivers the features and benefits MTM is known for — now in a more compact and portable package. The MTM Carbine Rifle Case is a great choice for shooters who value efficiency without sacrificing protection. Whether it’s heading to the range, packing for the hunt, or gearing up for tactical deployment, the MTM Rifle Carbine Case has shooting enthusiasts covered. Exterior Dimensions: 35 x 11.8 x 4 inches. Interior Dimensions: 34 x 9.5 x 3.2 inches. MSRP: $49.55.
Negrini Cases Universal Shotgun Case
Air travel approved and equipped with three TSA compliant locks, the Universal Shotgun Hard Case from Negrini features a partial cover luxury canvas exterior and padded neoprene water-resistant interior. It was designed to securely hold two shotguns — semi-autos, pump actions or over/unders — and fits barrel lengths up to 34 inches with vented or flat ribs plus extended chokes. A great choice for waterfowl hunters who like to travel in style, it now comes dressed in Mossy Oak Original Bottomland camo. Each case is manufactured with rigid double-wall ABS technology and opens 180 degrees for easy access. MSRP: $570.
Pelican Re-Set Interior System
The Pelican Re-Set Interior System comes pre-assembled as a kit to drop into a Pelican Long Case. An infinitely configurable case interior system that adapts to a wide range of gear, it was designed for a wide range of users — from tactical operators hauling varied loadouts for range days to hunters transporting rifles, shotguns and optics, to firearm trainers and consultants traveling with specialized gear. The Re-Set Interior System is equipped with high-density foam to withstand repeated adjustments and heavy use, ensuring durability and reliability from mission to mission. The Re-Set is designed to securely deliver a precise fit, preventing shifting or damage during transport, even in extreme conditions, ensuring it holds up for every mission. MSRP: $169.95-$229.95.
Plano Rustrictor AW2 Rifle Case
AW2 rifle cases are the first rifle cases in the Plano line to feature Rustrictor technology. They’re still impenetrable from the outside, with TSA approved dual-stage lockable latches and a Dri-Loc seal that create a watertight, dust-proof shield. Inside, not only does a pressure release valve equalize pressure through temperature or altitude changes, there’s also the added benefit of Rustrictor to prevent rust and corrosion on gear. The Rustrictor AW2 42-inch Rifle Case is perfectly sized to store and protect a favorite rifle in the most extreme conditions. The interior shell features pre-perforated pluck-to-fit foam padding for easy customization to the shape of a rifle, handgun or accessories to prevent movement and offer optimal protection. MSRP: $179.99.
RGD Fully Waterproof Tactical Rifle/AR Case
The RGD Xtreme Fully Waterproof and Floating AR Case fits most hunting rifles, assault rifles, modern sporting rifles and other long guns with or without scopes in a durable, rugged, floating case made of 500D PVC. It features a completely waterproof and air tight zippered enclosure that protects against full submersions, rain, snow, dust, dirt and direct contact with/from water. The interior padding measures greater than .75-inch thick and is fully removable for cleaning or replacement via hook-and-loop fasteners. The primary compartment maintains an IP rating of 66.
Other notable features include four nylon clip straps for securing to ATVs, UTVs, boats and vehicles, heavy-duty nylon carrying strap with neoprene handle and 100% waterproof, air-tight zipper. MSRP: $160.
www.rugidgear.com
SKB iSeries Four Handgun Case
The iSeries Four Handgun Case from SKB is an injection molded, watertight case featuring a customized high-density, 2-pound closed-cell foam interior that accommodates four handguns with designated slots for eight magazines and other accessories. The insert is designed to be highly versatile, with removable plugs to change the handgun height and removable mag plugs to make room for larger accessories as needed. SKB iSeries injection molded Mil-Standard waterproof cases are molded from ultra high-strength polypropylene copolymer resin, featuring a gasket-sealed, water and dust tight, submersible design that is resistant to corrosion and impact damage. Standard features include a molded-in hinge, padlock loops, Trigger Latch System, snap-down rubber over-molded cushion grip handle and automatic ambient pressure equalization valve. MSRP: $194.99.
