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Best Rifle and Pistol Cases: Protecting and Transporting Your Gear
A solid case for your firearms is the best way to protect your investment when transporting it. Cases come in different shapes and sizes and have various levels of security.
The best ones are waterproof, dustproof, and impact-proof. They are secured by multiple levels of protection and are usually TSA-compliant, meaning you may use them to transport your firearms as checked luggage.
There are many reasons to have a solid and dependable case, the main one being transporting your firearm(s). If you plan to transport them on an airplane or in the car, you’re in the right spot.
We’ll discuss what features to look for when choosing a case and recommend some of the best ones on the market.
Welcome to your guide for finding the best rifle and pistol cases.
You can never have too much space. Source: Reddit
Finding The Right Case
Space
The amount of space you’ll need from your case will vary from person to person. I know some people who only have one firearm, and I know some who carry everything from several firearms to night vision setups all in one large case.
So, depending on what kind of shooter you are, the space you’ll need must be considered when buying a case.
Get your gear together and get a rough measurement to understand your requirements. It’s better to have more space than less.
Features
There are plenty of features to consider, but some are more important than others.
I’ve had cases with and without wheels, and now that I can wheel my tools around, I can never see myself carrying a colossal case around again. If you’re transporting several firearms or large firearms, I highly suggest opting for a case with wheels.
You also have waterproofing, dustproofing, and impact-proofing. Some cases prioritize some over others, while the best ones offer all three. If you’re going to have your firearms outdoors, it’s a smart move to have all three.
Cases are expensive, so make sure you get all you need.
TSA Compliant
If you’re going to be flying with firearms, you’ll need a TSA-approved case. These cases are hard-sided and can be locked with TSA-approved locks. I suggest you do not place stickers on them that would make it evident that there’s a firearm inside.
FYI – the box or case your firearm came in isn’t going to cut it.
Configurations
Foam may be the most popular way to organize and secure firearms in a case, but it’s not the only one. Take a look at the DAKA grid from Magpul or consider some MOLLE panels, both of which can be used to keep firearms and their accessories in place.
The Magpul Daka grid in action. Source: Reddit
Cases
Best Pistol Case – Pelican 1150 Protector Pistol Case
If you want to transport your pistol, the Pelican 1150 Protector is the way to go.
Pelican has become the gold standard for all sorts of cases, and the 1150 Protector case offers many different features to keep your firearm safe and secure at all times.
For one, it offers the big three: dustproof, waterproof, and crushproof. If you’re flying with a pistol, TSA can be a little rough with packages, and keeping your pistol safe and secure is in everyone’s best interest.
So, to best protect your pistol, this tried-and-true pistol case is the way to go. It won’t break the bank, either, which is always a huge plus.
Best Rifle/Shotgun Case – Pelican 1700 Protector Long Case
The Pelican case is back again as the best rifle or shotgun case. It can fit two rifles or three shotguns inside without the magazines inserted.
Like the 1150 Pistol Case, the 1700 meets the big three protection requirements for your firearm. However, this one offers wheels and multiple handles to get your case around with ease.
You’ll find multiple latches and lock points so you can rest easily as your case passes through the TSA, and interior foam and Molle panels will keep your gear organized in transit.
Best Budget Rifle Case – Plano All Weather 2
When I first bought my rifle, I got a Plano All Weather 2 to carry back and forth to the range. I wouldn’t put this case under a plane (personally), but it was sturdy enough to get the job done on range trips.
It has enough space for two rifles or shotguns plus some more space for slings or anything else you desire to put in your case. The All-Weather 2 is impact-resistant, water-resistant, and dustproof. Bonus points for it being TSA-compliant as well.
Best Large Case – Pelican 1660 Protector Case
Now, if you’re one of those shooters who carry their rifle, helmet, night vision, vest, gun belt, and other miscellaneous items, then this is the case to look for.
Whenever my buddies and I get together for a range weekend, you can catch some of these cases rolling off the Toyota 4Runners and Tacomas that plague my friend group. Anyone can guess what’s inside the cases, but it’s usually about $30,000 worth of kit.
The Pelican 1660 is built to withstand the most serious conditions. Source: pelican
And that’s the beauty of the 1660 Protector Case. It fits everything and maintains all the levels of protection you would want. The sturdy wheels also make light work of gravel and rocks.
If you’re carrying an expensive kit, this is a no-brainer.
Best Budget Large Case – Plano Sportsman’s Trunk
Say you spent all of your money on gear and didn’t leave much money to transport it. A Plano Sportsman’s Trunk can do the job. At the very least, it will protect your gear from unwanted dirt and rain.
The Sportsman’s Trunk does have wheels and clasps to secure the lid, but depending on the weight, the wheels can have a hard time maneuvering through gravel.
Just a heads up.
Conclusion
You may notice that this list is heavy on the Pelican products. That’s because it makes the best cases, and the competition isn’t too stiff.
Any of these cases will work for most of what you need. I have tested and seen them in action repeatedly, and I recommend them to anyone in the market.
Don’t skimp on a solid case if you want to protect your gear.
Be good and take care.
