The 18 Best Rifle Cases

Owning a hunting rifle is all well and good, but you’ve still got to have a way to transport it. A rifle bag or hard rifle case will keep your gun safe from damage, while also concealing it discreetly.

Even if you’re just on the way to the shooting range or a hunting trip, many states and jurisdictions require you to keep your rifle in a case during transport, so not only is using a case the responsible thing to do, it may also be the law.

To keep your rifle safe and discreet, we’ve hunted for the best rifle case on the market. In the process, we came up with eighteen cases that we think make the cut. We’ve included cases for all purposes, from hunting bags for the field to hard cases for transporting your AR. We’ll take a close look at durability, versatility, as well as looking for the best overall value.

18 Best Rifle Cases

1. VISM by NcStar

The NcStar VISM unfolds to function as a shooting mat, so that’s one less piece of gear you’ll need to carry.

Key Features

• Soft case
• 1-rifle capacity
• PVC construction
• Padded interior panel
• Unfolds into a 66” x 35” shooter’s mat
• MOLLE webbing down the sides
• Available in 4 colors
• Weighs 5 pounds
• 51 inches long

The NcStar VISM is a surprisingly good rifle case from a company that’s known for mid-tier optics. Its main benefit is that it can be completely unfolded to serve as a shooting mat. While it’s not the most comfortable shooting mat in the world, it’s integrated into your rifle case, so you won’t have to carry it separately.

This soft case is well constructed, with a padded interior to protect your gun’s finish and MOLLE webbing for attaching extra gear. It’s 50 inches long, so it’s large enough to accommodate even long big game rifles. And the PVC shell is durable, so you can use it for many hunting seasons before you’ll need a replacement.

Pros

• Long
• Durable
• Doubles as a shooting mat

Cons

• Relatively thin shooting mat

Why It’s Recommended

The VISM by NcStar is an ideal choice for hunters since it saves you the trouble of carrying a shooting mat.

2. UTG Homeland

The UTG Homeland is an inexpensive case that’s still well-engineered enough for use by law enforcement.

Key Features

• Soft case
• 2-rifle capacity
• Nylon construction
• High-density foam-padded interior
• 2 padded backpack straps
• Large padded external pocket with 4 rifle magazine pouches
• Weighs 2.6 pounds
• 32, 34, or 42 inches long

The UTG is a slim gun case that’s designed for AR-style rifles, although it’s available in a 42-inch length that’s long enough to accommodate most hunting rifles.

That said, it is primarily designed for ARs. It’s slim and discreet, like a briefcase. Not only does this make it easy to carry out to your car, but it also makes it well-shaped for virtually any trunk or rear seat well. The side pocket features four pouches for rifle magazines, which are sized for 30-round magazines.

This is a fine choice for taking your gun to the range, but we wouldn’t recommend it for use in the field. It’s just not tough enough to stand up to weather and other harsh natural conditions.

Pros

• Generous capacity
• Very soft padding
• Easy to carry
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Not very durable

Why It’s Recommended

The UTG has a slim profile, ideal for discreet carrying and easy transport.

3. Allen Daytona

The Allen Daytona is purpose-built for transporting your hunting rifle, to the range or out in the field.

Key Features

• Soft case
• 1-rifle capacity
• Weather-resistant synthetic construction
• Washable polyester lining
• Clear pocket for hunting licenses
• 2 large external storage pockets
• Weighs 1.75 pounds
• 48 inches long

The Allen Dakota 987-48 is built to keep your rifle safe and secure while you’re enjoying your time in the great outdoors. It offers plenty of storage, with two external pockets that are shaped to fit the profile of your scoped hunting rifle.

This design results in an extremely light case that tips the scales at less than 2 pounds. It’s 48 inches long, making it one of the longest rifle cases you’ll see in this weight range.

This rifle case is well padded on the interior, which prevents your rifle from getting damaged by bangs and bumps on the road, or while you’re hauling it up into a tree stand.

And the outer layer is waterproof, complete with a rubber gasket around the zipper to prevent leakage. Considering the price point, the Dakota is a fantastic value.

Pros

• Weather-resistant design
• Long and lightweight
• Affordable

Cons

• Some durability issues

Why It’s Recommended

The Daytona is made to stand up to the elements — an ideal choice for hunters.

4. Savior Equipment

The Savior Equipment offers storage for a pair of pistols as well as a pair of rifles.

Key Features

• Soft case
• 2-rifle capacity (plus 2 pistols)
• PVC/nylon blend construction
• Thickly padded interior
• Backpack-style carrying straps
• 1 external double pistol pocket
• 2 external storage pockets
• MOLLE webbing on the exterior
• Available in 4 colors
• Weighs 7 pounds (42-inch version)
• 36, 42, 46, 51, or 55 inches long

The Savior Equipment is a soft rifle case that’s padded on all six sides. It also features an internal divider, which allows you to carry a pair of rifles without them scraping against each other and getting damaged. Internal restraining straps hold your guns securely in place.

The outside of the case features three large pockets. Two of these are designed for storage, whether you’re carrying extra magazines or a cleaning kit. The middle one is divided, with straps for carrying a pair of pistols. This allows you to carry a variety of weapons at once, making the American Classic one of the most versatile gun cases available.

Pros

• Easy to carry
• Padding on all sides
• Very large capacity
• Lifetime manufacturer’s warranty

Cons

• Weak internal straps
• Heavy

Why It’s Recommended

The Savior is a convenient way to carry not just a single rifle, but an entire range kit.

5. Lancer 600D

The Lancer 600D is a spacious rifle case that can be carried on your back like a backpack.

Key Features

• Soft case
• 2-rifle capacity (plus 1 pistol)
• Polyester construction
• EVA foam-padded interior with a divider between rifles
• Backpack-style carrying straps
• Built-in shooting mat
• MOLLE webbing on the outside of the shell
• External pistol pocket
• 2 external storage pockets
• Available in 5 colors
• Weighs 6.9 pounds (42-inch version)
• 36 or 42 inches long

The Lancer 600D is designed to carry a large quantity of gear in a mid-sized shell. It’s sized for two rifles, with a separate padded external pocket with restraining straps for your pistol. In addition, you’ll find a pair of storage pockets that are large enough to carry hundreds of rounds of your favorite ammo.

One awesome feature is the internal removable divider, which can be unfolded for use as a shooting mat. This makes the Lancer a solid choice for hunters, particularly since it also features a pair of backpack-style carrying straps. As a result, you’re looking at a rifle case that’s easy to carry, doubles as a shooting mat, and packs out in a compact package.

Pros

• Generous capacity
• Doubles as a shooting mat
• Affordable

Cons

• Flimsy zippers

Why It’s Recommended

The Lancer 600D has a removable internal liner that unfolds to serve as a shooting mat.

6. Boyt Harness H-Series

The Boyt H-Series is TSA-approved for air travel.

Key Features

• Hard case
• 1-rifle capacity
• Polypropylene construction
• Eggshell foam-lined interior
• Water-resistant O-ring seal
• TSA-approved
• Weighs 22 pounds (41-inch version)
• 41, 48, or 52 inches long

The Boyt H-Series is TSA-approved. This means it’s legal for flying with your rifle, provided you’ve locked it with a TSA-approved padlock.

The shell of this case is constructed from heavy-duty polypropylene, which is tough enough to handle any abuse it’s likely to experience during travel — even rough baggage handlers. On the downside, it’s very heavy for the size, so it’s not a great choice for carrying in the field.

The egg crate foam padding, in this case, allows it to accommodate virtually any rifle. It offers less protection than a high-density foam, but it’s well suited to a universal case like this. That said, the rubber seal is very secure, and keeps your rifle safe from moisture even if you drop it in a lake.

Pros

• Durable construction
• A great choice for travel
• Water-resistant

Cons

• Thin padding
• Heavy

Why It’s Recommended

The H-Series are exceptionally durable, tough enough to protect your gear from the rigors of travel.

7. Plano Gun Guard

The Plano Gun Guard is marine-rated, with enough durability to keep your guns safe in any realistic conditions.

Key Features

• Hard case
• 1-rifle capacity
• PVC construction
• High-density foam-lined interior
• Weather-resistant seal
• Padlock rings for security
• Weighs 15 pounds (42-inch version)
• 36 or 42 inches long

The Plano Gun Guard All-Weather is engineered to stand up to the elements. It has a tough, durable shell, and it can be padlocked for added security. The interior foam is high density for plenty of protection and is perforated in several overlapping patterns so you can easily cut it to fit virtually any firearm.

This case is easy to open, with four spring-loaded clips that open easily when they’re flipped. When closed, it’s water-resistant, making it a good choice for outdoor events. Be careful about storing a scoped hunting rifle, though; interior clearance is only 11 inches. This is plenty for an AR with a reflex sight, but not for anything with a tall sight.

Pros

• Easy to open
• Can be padlocked
• Durable interior foam
• Water-resistant
• Lifetime warranty
• Affordable

Cons

• Narrow design
• Heavy

Why It’s Recommended

The Plano is affordable and also durable, this is a good selection.

8. Flambeau

The Flambeau is an affordable rifle case with a rugged polypropylene shell.

Key Features

• Hard case
• 2-rifle capacity
• Polypropylene construction
• Eggshell foam-padded interior
• 4 locking latches
• Weighs 11.6 pounds
• 42 inches long

The Flambeau Safe shot is a hard shell gun case that comes at a very reasonable price. It’s one of the most affordable polypropylene gun cases on the market, with an interior egg crate padding that isn’t the most protective but is also very versatile, well suited to carrying a variety of rifles.

This case is very secure. It features four locking points that ensure that is stays shut while you’re traveling with it or carrying it. It’s 53 inches in length, so it can accommodate even very long hunting rifles, but it’s also popular with the AR community since you can store a handful of extra mags inside with your AR.

Pros

• Tough and durable
• Generous capacity
• Four locking points
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Thin padding
• Large and bulky

Why It’s Recommended

This is one of the most affordable, reliable two-gun cases on the market.

9. Pelican 1700

The Pelican 1700 is used by the US military, as well as many private security contractors.

Key Features

• Hard case
• 1-rifle capacity
• Polymer construction
• Dense interior foam padding
• Steel padlock grommets
• Watertight O-ring construction
• TSA-approved
• Available in 3 colors
• Weighs 17 pounds
• 36 inches long

The Pelican 1700 is a rugged polymer case that’s built for combat operations, and we couldn’t resist putting such a durable case on our list

In addition to being tough enough to drive a truck over, the Pelican features steel padlock grommets, reinforcing the most likely point of attack for anyone trying to steal your firearms.

Provided it’s locked with TSA-approved padlocks, it’s also perfect for airline travel. It features a pair of rolling wheels, making it ideal for competitive shooters who want to get their guns in and out of the airport quickly.

This case features dense foam that’s pre-perforated for several AR configurations. On the other hand, it’s too short for a hunting rifle. This case is for sporting arms only.

Pros

• Durable construction
• Can be padlocked
• Weather-resistant
• A great choice for travel
• Easy to transport

Cons

• Heavy
• Expensive

Why It’s Recommended

The Pelican 1700 is tough enough to handle combat operations, so airline security will be no problem.

10. SKB iSeries

The SKB iSeries is a narrow hard case that’s perfectly sized for hunting rifles.

Key Features

• Hard case
• 1-rifle capacity
• Polypropylene construction
• Egg crate foam-padded interior
• Four locking clasps
• Steel padlock grommets
• Watertight construction
• TSA-approved
• Weighs 3.25 pounds
• 49 inches long

The SKB iSeries is a good complement to the Pelican. While the Pelican is designed for sporting rifles, the TSA-approved SKB iSeries is built with hunting rifles in mind. It has a slim profile, with enough clearance to allow for a scope but not for an AR magazine, and this design allows it to be very lightweight only 3 and a quarter pounds.

At that weight, you’d expect the iSeries to be relatively flimsy, but you’d be wrong. It features steel grommets to reinforce the padlock rings, and its four locking clasps keep it from accidentally popping open even when it’s not locked shut. This is an expensive choice, but this kind of lightweight security does not come cheap.

Pros

• Durable construction
• A great choice for travel
• Watertight design
• Lightweight for a hard case

Cons

• Narrow profile
• Expensive

Why It’s Recommended

The SKB iSeries is a perfect choice for traveling with your hunting rifle.

11. Boyt H44

The Boyt H44 is another heavy-duty polypropylene rifle hard case.

Key Features

• Hard case
• 1-rifle capacity
• Polypropylene construction
• Dense interior foam padding
• Padlock-compatible steel latches
• TSA-approved
• Weighs 26 pounds
• 44 inches long

The Boyt H44 is a late addition to the H-Series line of cases we’ve already looked at. This monster has a tough polypropylene shell that’s strong enough to stand up to a sledgehammer. It features a water-resistant seal, with a TSA-approved set of padlock grommets for secure locking. All of these features come at the expense of weight; the H44 weighs 26 pounds.

This case features dense foam padding on the interior. It can be cut to fit virtually any AR, as well as the majority of 42-inch and shorter hunting rifles. Once you’ve cut the foam, it’s still thick and heavy enough to provide an excellent cushion for your firearm. This case is expensive, but you’ll never need to buy another rifle case in your life.

Pros

• Durable, water-resistant construction
• A great choice for travel
• Secure design
• Dense foam padding

Cons

• Very heavy
• Expensive

Why It’s Recommended

The Boyt H44 is a solid choice for both ARs and hunting rifles.

12. Case Club

The Case Club is pre-cut for carrying both an AR and a pistol.

Key Features

• Hard case
• 1-rifle capacity (plus 1 pistol)
• Polyethylene construction
• Pre-cut polyethylene foam insert
• TSA-approved
• Reinforced padlock grommets
• Cutout for a pistol as well as a rifle
• Water-resistant seal
• Includes a waterproof accessory box
• Weighs 14 pounds
• 36 inches long

The Case Club is designed specifically for transporting an AR-15 or similar sporting rifle. It measures 36 inches long and features a pre-cut foam cushion that’s already set up for your AR, with a separate cutout for your pistol.

The downside? If you have any other kind of gun, you won’t be able to use this case effectively. Also, the manufacturers cut the foam so that the scope is pointed downwards while you’re carrying your gun, which makes it more likely that the crosshairs will be knocked out of alignment.

The polyethylene shell is tough and rugged, with a water-resistant seal. It’s TSA-approved for air travel and features large reinforced grommets for your padlock.

Pros

• Durable construction
• Padlock-compatible
• Water-resistant
• Large capacity
• Good choice for travel

Cons

• Precut for ARs
• On the pricier side

Why It’s Recommended

The Case Club is a versatile choice for carrying your AR, your pistol, or both.

13. VooDoo

The VooDoo is a large soft case that can carry two hunting rifles or AR-style rifles.

Key Features

• Soft case
• 2-rifle capacity
• Ballistic pack cloth construction
• Padded interior with padded gun divider
• 3 external storage pouches
• External MOLLE webbing
• Backpack-style carrying straps
• Available in 7 colors
• Weighs 5 pounds (42-inch version)
• 36, 42, or 46 inches long

The VooDoo is sized to accommodate a pair of rifles. The shorter, 36-inch version is sized for ARs, while the longer 42 and 46-inch variants will accommodate a hunting rifle. All versions feature three large external storage pouches, which can be used for magazines, extra ammunition, or even a pistol for range use.

This rifle case comes with backpack-style carrying straps, which make it easy to transport over any kind of terrain. The interior padding is very soft but can be melted by a hot barrel. If you’ve been firing your rifle enough that the barrel is too hot to touch, wait a minute before putting it back in your VooDoo case.

Pros

• Generous capacity
• Easy to carry
• Plenty of storage
• Affordable

Cons

• Interior can be melted by a hot barrel

Why It’s Recommended

The VooDoo is backpack-style and very easy to carry, on the range or deep in the woods.

14. Condor

The Condor is lightweight and comes with plenty of room for accessory storage.

Key Features

• Soft case
• 1-rifle capacity
• Polyester construction
• ¾-inch foam padded interior
• 1 large and 2 small external storage pouches
• Available in 3 colors
• Weighs 4.5 pounds (42-inch version)
• 36 or 42 inches long

The Condor is a soft case that’s equipped for carrying a single rifle, along with any number of extra magazines, optics, and other accessories.

It’s designed to be slim and lightweight, tipping the scales at only 4 ½ pounds. While this makes it easy to carry, the profile may not accommodate all optics. If you have a very large sight, you might need to detach it for carrying.

That said, this case features ¾-inch padding, offering exceptional protection from bumps and drops. If you’re looking for a lightweight case that’s still tough enough to keep your rifle safe on the trail, it’s tough to do better than the Condor.

Pros

• Extra thick padding
• Tough stitching
• Plenty of storage capacity
• Affordable

Cons

• Not wide enough for a large scope
• Flimsy buckles

Why It’s Recommended

This well-padded rifle soft-case is still slim enough for carrying your rifle into the deep woods.

15. BLACKHAWK!

The BLACKHAWK! is a compact soft case that’s specialized for AR-style rifles.

Key Features

• Soft case
• 1-rifle capacity
• PVC construction with a washable polyester liner
• Foam-padded interior
• 4 external magazine pouches
• 2 additional external storage pouches
• Weighs 2 pounds
• 36 inches long

The BLACKHAWK! Tactical Carbine is relatively short, only 36 inches in length. This makes it poorly suited for hunting rifles, but that’s fine because the BLACKHAWK! is specialized for AR-15s.

In addition to a foam-padded primary compartment, the case also features four external pouches that are specifically sized for 30-round AR magazines. You also get a pair of larger pouches for carrying cleaning supplies or optics.

This case is affordable and lightweight, at only two pounds. That said, you get what you pay for. The zippers aren’t very sturdy, and will eventually fail after repeated use.

Pros

• Designed specifically for the AR-15
• Lightweight design
• Plenty of storage options
• Very inexpensive

Cons

• Flimsy zippers
• Short length

Why It’s Recommended

This compact, inexpensive rifle soft case is a great choice for carrying your collapsed AR.

16. NcSTAR VISM

The NcSTAR VISM is a 2-rifle soft case that’s constructed from lightweight, durable nylon.

Key Features

• Soft case
• 2-rifle capacity
• Nylon construction
• Padded interior with padded rifle divider
• Backpack-style carrying straps
• 3 external storage pockets
• External MOLLE webbing
• Available in 7 colors
• Weighs 5 pounds (42-inch version)
• 36, 42, 46, or 55 inches long

The NcSTAR VISM is a soft case that carries up to two rifles. It features a padded liner, along with a padded divider to keep your rifles from scratching each other. There are also three external storage pouches for carrying extra magazines or accessories.

A pair of backpack-style carrying straps make this case easy to carry. However, they’re not very well padded and can dig into your shoulders if you wear them for an extended period of time. Then again, the VISM is inexpensive and will provide a way of carrying your guns with a minimum of cost.

Pros

• Generous capacity
• Plenty of extra storage
• Affordable

Cons

• Uncomfortable shoulder straps

Why It’s Recommended

The NcSTAR VISM is comparable to the VooDoo Tactical case we already looked at but is more affordable and less durable.

17. Bulldog Cases

The Bulldog Case is the most compact carrying case we’ve seen for a rifle.

Key Features

• Soft case
• 1-rifle capacity
• Ballistic nylon construction
• Foam-padded interior with foam divider
• 3 internal magazine pouches
• Water-resistant seal
• Available in black or navy blue
• Weighs 2.5
• 29 inches long

The Bulldog measure only 27 inches in length. Let’s be blunt: you’re not going to be carrying your hunting rifle with this case. That said, it’s a fantastic choice for carrying your AR. While you’ll have to break your gun down for transport, you’ll be able to carry your rifle in a case that’s the size of a large briefcase.

In addition to the main compartment, this case has a pair of built-in magazine sleeves that are sized specifically for AR magazines. The main compartment itself features a padded divider, which will prevent your barrel from scratching the stock and receiver, and vice-versa.

Pros

• Lightweight and very compact
• Very discreet
• Weather-resistant
• Very inexpensive

Cons

• The rifle must be broken down to fit

Why It’s Recommended

The Bulldog is an ideal choice if you primarily need a discreet rifle carrying case.

18. VooDoo Deluxe

The VooDoo Deluxe is an exceptionally well-engineered soft case with a two-rifle capacity.

Key Features

• Soft case
• 2-rifle capacity (plus 2 pistols)
• Ballistic pack cloth construction
• Foam-padded interior with padded gun divider
• 1 external double pistol pocket
• 2 large external storage pockets
• External MOLLE webbing
• Includes padlocks
• Available in 3 colors
• Weighs 10 pounds (42-inch version)
• 36 or 42 inches long

The VooDoo Deluxe is an upgrade of the basic VooDoo Tactical we already reviewed, with reinforced double-stitched seams and expanded MOLLE webbing. It also includes a pair of padlocks for keeping your guns safe from curious young hands.

Like the original VooDoo Tactical, this case also features an external double pocket for transporting a pair of pistols. Two additional pockets provide plenty of storage for extra magazines, a cleaning kit, or other shooting supplies.

Pros

• Generous capacity
• Tough, rugged stitching
• Plenty of storage capacity

Cons

• Heavy for a soft case

This high-quality rifle case offers enough capacity for a pair of rifles and pistols.

Bottom Line

As you can see, there’s a lot of variation between different varieties of rifle cases. For this reason, the best rifle case for you is going to be the one that’s best suited for your personal firearm, and for what you’re actually doing with your gun.

For example, a hard AR case is a great way to carry your AR to and from the shooting range, but a tactical rifle bag is going to be a better choice for taking your rifle out in the field. The best tactical rifle soft case will offer almost as much protection as a solid tactical rifle case, but it will be significantly more lightweight and comfortable to carry.

Whatever you end up choosing, we hope our reviews have helped you become more knowledgeable about what’s on the market. As a more educated customer, you’ll be well equipped to make a good purchase decision.

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