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Whether you are looking to find the best air rifle case, the best AR case, or just the best rifle case for general purpose, we’ve got some great options for you below. You can find even more helpful information for choosing the best gun case for the money in our section on How to Choose a Rifle Case at the bottom of the article.
Best Rifle Cases
Quick Answer: The 5 Best Rifle Cases – [2021]
- Vault by Pelican – Rifle Case with Foam
- Plano All Weather 2 Scoped Rifle/Shotgun Case
- Pelican 1720 Rifle Case
- Savior Equipment American Classic Tactical Double Long Rifle Bag
- SKB iSeries Single Rifle Case Black
Rifle Cases Reviews
#1 – Vault by Pelican – Rifle Case with Foam
- Double rifle case
- Interior dimensions: 53” x 16” x 6”
- Fits 2 rifles with scopes
- 5 layers of protective foam
- Crush-proof
- Dust-proof
- Weather-resistant
- 6 push-button latches
- 4 stainless steel lock eyelets
- Ergonomic heavy-duty handles
- Wheels
- Automatic pressure valve
This is certainly better than many cases that claim to fit 2 rifles. A lot of the cases that do so will only fit the 2 rifles without the scopes. With this option, you’ll even have extra room for things like additional magazines.
The five layers of protective foam within the case keep your weapons and accessories secure and safe from impact.
Durable construction makes the case itself crush-proof, so even under extreme conditions, the contents of the case will be completely safe and free of harm!
It is also dust-proof as well as weather-resistant making it perfect for storage and transport. On the outside of this Pelican rifle case, you will find 6 individual latches.
These keep the case tightly secured. Operating the latches is easy thanks to a convenient push-button design. Among these 6 latches, you will find 4 lock eyelets made using strong and durable stainless steel. These allow you the option to add locks to your case for added security.
This is an important step that is strongly recommended for proper safety, storage, and transportation. Special heavy-duty handles on the case are designed ergonomically with comfort and durability in mind.
You’ll also find wheels on the end of this rifle case that allow it to be very conveniently rolled behind you. One more great feature you get with the case is the automatic pressure valve.
This is a big part of what allows this case to be so efficient and even dust-proof. The case seals shut but the valve allows the pressure to be regulated to allow this seal to work with no issues and no concerns about your equipment!
When it comes to price, this option is a little bit more expensive than some of our choices, but definitely isn’t bad overall and has incredible value.
#2 – Plano All Weather 2 Scoped Rifle/Shotgun Case
- Double rifle case
- Interior dimensions: 51.5” x 14” x 5.5”
- Dri-Loc seal
- Automatic pressure valve
- 4 multi-stage latches
- 4 sets of lock eyelets
- 2 handle positions
- Enclosed easy-glide wheels
- Pluck-to-fit customizable foam
You can certainly fit two rifles into this case including room for accessories as well. It is only a little smaller than the Vault by Pelican case.
A continuous Dri-Loc seal provides excellent protection from the elements with this weather-resistant case.
The pressure release valve allows this to be possible by automatically adjusting the pressure inside the case to match the pressure outside of the case.
The case is both watertight as well as dust-proof to guarantee your rifles stay protected even in more extreme conditions. This Plano case features 4 external latches. This is 2 less than the Pelican case above, but it is still very secure.
The latches are multi-stage latches, so they can’t be accidentally opened, and they do hold the case securely sealed from the elements.
A pressure valve, just like that of the Pelican case, makes this possible by keeping the pressure equal in and out of the case.
It also has 4 sets of lock eyelets just like the Pelican case. This allows you to add external locks as desired to further increase security.
Enclosed easy-glide wheels add extra convenience to this rather large case by allowing you to simply pull the case behind you with ease.
A special pluck-to-fit foam inside the case makes it incredibly easy to customize the foam to your exact needs. The way this works is simple – the foam comes perforated so that you can easily and quickly pull out the pieces you want to remove.
This lets you create a perfect shape inside the foam for your weapons as well as any accessories. Doing this adds more customized protection for your rifles.
Two different handle locations provide additional versatility and allow you to carry the case whichever way is most comfortable for you at any given time.
You can also get this case in a 42-inch size or 36-inch size if you need a smaller option!
#3 – Pelican 1720 Rifle Case
- Single rifle case
- Plenty of space for accessories
- Interior dimensions: 42” x 13.5” x 5.25”
- Crush-proof
- Dust-proof
- Watertight
- Automatic pressure equalizer valve
- Padlock protectors
- 2 sets of lock eyelets
- Three colors available
- Stainless steel hardware
- Polyurethane wheels
- Two handle locations
This is actually the most expensive case of our recommendations and that is likely simply due to the impressive durability and design of the case.
It is certainly well-worth purchasing if you want the best protection possible for your rifle. This case is actually over-engineered!
Basically, it is stronger than you should ever need it to be and can withstand even the harshest of conditions. The case is crush-proof, dust-proof, and even watertight!
The special tongue and groove designed coupled with a polymer O-ring allows this to be possible. The automatic air pressure valve keeps the air pressure equalized without letting water in.
Four double-throw latches across the front of the case keep it sealed tightly. Two of the four latches also feature lock eyelets with padlock protectors to greatly enhance the security of your case.
All of the hardware on the case is made from stainless steel for better durability as well. This is another case that features two different handles with different locations on the case. There is one on the long side of the case for easy carrying.
Then, there is a second handle on the short side of the case that, alongside the built-in wheels, allows you to pull the case along behind you. The wheels are made from polyurethane and use stainless steel bearings.
This makes them work amazingly well without damage even on more rugged terrain. One more cool thing is that you can actually choose this case in three different colors. It comes in black, desert tan, and olive green.
#4 – Savior Equipment American Classic Tactical Double Long Rifle Bag
- Soft double rifle case
- Dimensions: 46” x 12” x 12”
- Holds up to 2 rifles
- Can hold an additional 2 pistols
- Thick EVA foam padding
- 600D PVC nylon fabric
- Rigid center divider
- Lockable front zippered pockets
- 3 front storage compartments
- Multiple carrying options
It is our least expensive pick, but still provides some great protection and a perfect storage solution for your rifle.
Actually, this soft case can hold up to two rifles with plenty of extra storage for other accessories. The outside of the case is constructed from heavy-duty 600D PVC nylon fabric.
This is a highly durable choice for a soft case and while it won’t hold up as well as a hard case, it does provide basic protection from the elements.
Inside the bag, foam padding covers the sides to provide cushioning and protect the rifle from bumps, scratches, and lighter impacts. Right at the center of the bag, there is a rigid divider with additional padding.
This keeps the two rifles inside the bag separate from one another and provides additional protection.
On the front of the bag, there is a large zippered compartment for storing additional accessories that you may need or want.
There are actually even two padded pistol pockets if you want to carry additional firearms in the case. Three more storage bags on the very front of the bag can be used for ammo or any other gear you want to bring along.
On the back of the bag, you’ll find backpack straps that give it more versatility and make it more convenient for carrying. A set of regular handles is also available for carrying by your side.
This affordable and versatile option is hard to beat if you’re interested in a soft rifle case.
#5 – SKB iSeries Single Rifle Case Black
- Single hard rifle case
- Dimensions: 49” x 9” x 5”
- Impact-resistant
- Watertight
- Dust-proof
- 4 latches
- 4 sets of lock eyelets
- Egg-carton-style foam padding
- Resistant to chemicals and corrosion
- UV-resistant
As most of our choices, this case is crush-proof and dust-proof. It is watertight and stands up to the elements like a champ. There is no doubt that this case will keep your rifle nice and safe.
The case is even resistant to corrosion, UV damage, and various chemicals.
Like the Pelican 1720 case, this is for a single rifle. This means it is more compact and lightweight compared to the larger double cases.
Four easy to use latches on the front of the case keep your weapon and accessories secure. Each one features its own set of lock eyelets allowing you to add up to 4 individual locks to your case for top-notch security.
The other hard rifle case options on our list all feature customizable foam of some kind or another. This case does not have that feature, which is important to consider.
Instead, it features egg-carton-style foam padding on the top and bottom. This will contour around your weapon and help keep it safe.
However, it won’t have quite the same protection level you get from customizable foam. It also has only one carrying handle and no wheels.
This isn’t a huge deal, but it does just mean a little less convenience and versatility. The price makes it worth the sacrifice for many.
How to Choose a Rifle Case
- Size
- Foam Padding Type
- Hard Rifle Case vs Soft Rifle Case
- Latch System
- Lock Eyelets
- Durability
- Convenience
- Rifle Case FAQs
- Buyer’s Tips
How you choose to store and transport your firearms is exceptionally important when it comes to safety not just for your gun, but for the people that come into your home and those around you during transportation. Having your rifle properly stored in the best rifle case ensures no accidents can happen.
Remember that in the case of children specifically, it is best not to just secure your rifle into a gun case, but to also store that gun case up and out of access to the children.
Even air rifles should be properly stored for safety and preservation. The best air rifle case won’t necessarily be any different from the best rifle case in general.
When it comes to choosing a rifle case, you can’t just jump at the first option you come across. There are a lot of very important factors that vary among different rifle cases.
Before you purchase a case for your weapon(s), consider reading over these important considerations that we have listed below.
We go into everything you need to look at and consider to help guarantee you find the perfect rifle case to best meet your specific needs!
Size
One of the very first things you want to think about as you look for a good rifle case is the size of the case. This is all about your personal needs, so first, you want to take into account how much space you actually need.
Some cases have room for 2 rifles, while others are only designed for a single rifle. From there, you need to also figure out the length of your rifle(s).
Remember to include the scope in your measurement if you want to store it on your gun in the case. You want the interior length of the case to be just slightly longer than your measurement to ensure some padding on each side of your weapon.
Additional width in the case is excellent for storing other items like magazines, ammo boxes, protective eyewear, and even smaller weapons like pistols.
Foam Padding Type
The type of foam padding that a case has can affect protective qualities as well as convenience. Below, you can see short descriptions of different foam types you’re likely to encounter and their pros and cons.
Solid Foam
Many gun cases feature a solid block of foam inside the case. This is generally a more cost-effective option. With solid foam, you will want to cut the foam to customize it to your rifle and any other items you wish to store in your case.
Cutting the solid foam into the right shape and depth can be a little more challenging than customizing other options. Using an electric carving knife can be helpful.
Pluck to Fit Foam
Here is another very common type of foam you find in various rifle cases. Pluck to fit foam is a popular option because customization is so easy, and it doesn’t add a lot to the cost of the case.
This is basically solid foam that has been perforated into tiny cubic sections. These small cubes of foam are easy to just pull out to create spaces for your rifle and other items.
The pieces are pretty small, so it lets you customize to fit the specific shapes you need. Of course, it won’t be as good of a custom fit compared to foam that you actually cut.
It will have a pixelated style to it, instead. Still, it works pretty well and is affordable as well as super easy.
Kaizen Foam
Kaizen foam is a special type of foam that comes in layers. Each layer is 1/8” thick. The layers are individually laminated and very protective. The concept here is that you cut each individual layer of the foam into different shapes to accommodate your weapon at different levels.
Basically, you cut out a bunch of 2-D shapes that stack together to create a 3-D cut-out of the gun. The foam is easy to cut, but it will take a little while to get it all just right. It provides a highly customized fit and a ton of protection for your weapon. It does cost more than most choices, of course.
Egg Carton Style Foam
Finally, some cases feature a basic egg carton style foam. This is just foam with evenly spaced humps all across it. It is not designed to be customizable. It will still hold your weapon in place and provide protection, but not quite in the same way as customizable options. It is affordable and you don’t have to do anything to it, though.
Hard Rifle Case vs Soft Rifle Case
Deciding between a hard rifle case and a soft rifle case is another very important choice you’ll need to make. There is no question that a hard case provides superior protection.
Hard cases are often watertight, crush-proof, and highly resistant to any possible damage. Soft rifle cases certainly provide some good protection, but just not at the same level as a good hard rifle case.
A hard case would also generally be more secure as it can be effectively closed and locked. On the other hand, a soft case is nice because it is generally easier to handle and is more lightweight.
Soft cases often feature lots of extra storage space and are more affordable in general.
Latch System
Hard rifle cases have various latch systems. When considering what you want in your latch system, think about the number of latches and how they open. Most cases have between 4 and 6 latches. Obviously, the more latches, the more secure.
However, more latches also mean it takes longer to open and close the case. The way the latches open also greatly affects security and time spent opening and closing the case.
Multi-stage latches take longer but are more secure. Push button latches are easy and fast, but also less secure.
Lock Eyelets
You definitely want to consider the inclusion of lock eyelets on your case. These are simply openings where you can place a padlock onto the case. This allows you to truly secure the case.
It is recommended to lock up any firearms you have, but it is especially important if you have children in your home. Some cases have only one set of eyelets for one lock. Others have them at each latch to allow you to include multiple locks if desired.
Durability
How strong your case needs to be is highly dependent on what you intend to put it through. If you will be taking your case into all kinds of weather and driving possibly rough terrain with the case – or traveling via air with the case, durability is more important.
If you are just looking for a convenient way to carry your rifles from your home to the range, something less durable might be suitable for you. Look for these durability features in your case:
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Crush-proof
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Dustproof
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Watertight
-
Corrosion resistant
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UV resistant
Convenience
Finally, your convenience is also very important. The convenience level of your case ties in a lot with many of the other features we have already gone over.
You want to look at things like how easy it is to customize the foam (if it is customizable), how much effort goes into opening and closing the case, and if there is extra storage room available.
Another important convenience feature is the inclusion of wheels and multiple handle locations. Some cases are designed to only be carried.
Others are able to be pulled behind you for easier transportation. Soft cases may even have back-pack straps for even easier carrying.
Rifle Case FAQs
Do rifle cases lock?
Most rifle cases can’t be locked on their own, but they do usually include places where locks are meant to be put onto them. This is true with hard rifle cases, but a soft rifle case would be much more difficult – if not impossible – to actually lock.
Locking your firearms up when not in use is always a good idea. If you choose to use a soft case for benefits such as lightweight design and extra storage, it is a good idea to keep your rifles in a gun safe when at home.
Is a hard rifle case better than a soft rifle case?
Hard and soft rifle cases each have their own sets of pros and cons. One is not inherently better than the other. Instead, which one is best depends on your specific needs.
A hard case is more durable and provides superior protection, but it is also more cumbersome to transport and usually costs more.
Buyer’s Tips for Rifle Cases
When buying a rifle case, you definitely want to carefully consider your options. They have a lot of varying features that are important to look into in order to make sure you are actually getting the best rifle case for your specific needs.
You need to consider the size of your rifle, if you want to store just one or two rifles in the case, how often you’ll be transporting the case, and what conditions the case is likely to face.
It is also a good idea to keep in mind things like storage space and other convenience factors. Also, remember to buy your case from a trustworthy retailer.
Amazon is definitely a great option due to a wide variety of choices, generally good pricing, quick shipping, and unbeatable customer service. There may be some other good options out there as well though, and it never hurts to shop around.
We hope that we have been of some help to you in finding your perfect rifle case!
You might also be interested in these related review articles:
SHOOTING & ARCHERY AIR RIFLES | AIR RIFLE SCOPES | COMPOUND BOWS | CROSSBOWS | PISTOL CROSSBOWS | RECURVE BOWS | HANDGUN SAFES | BIOMETRIC GUN CASES | RIFLE CASES | COMPOUND BOW CASES | CROSSBOW CASES
HUNTING GEAR HUNTING BOWS | CROSSBOWS | HUNTING ARROWS | TREE STANDS | HUNTING BOOTS | HUNTING BACKPACKS | HUNTING RIFLE SCOPES | HUNTING BINOCULARS | LASER RANGEFINDERS | HUNTING HEADLAMPS | TRAIL CAMERAS | HUNTING GPS | BOW SIGHTS | SPOTTING SCOPES | HUNTING BLINDS
How We Researched
To come up with the top rifle cases, we researched a variety of sources for reviews such as REI, Backcountry, Moosejaw, EVO along with our own personal experience.
We also consulted online magazines for product research and reviews to get as much unbiased information as we could. To help weed out fake reviews we used Fakespot.com to make sure we only looked at genuine reviews.
With so much quality gear available, we had to narrow it down based on what we felt were the best options were for the price. The author, Casey Fiedler is an avid hunter and outdoorsman. He has successfully guided hunting parties across remote wilderness areas.
To help narrow down the selection he used his personal experience along with recommendations from fellow hunters and hunting outfitters.
After extensive research, we came up with our list to help you choose the right one for you.
Sources