Best AR Rifle Cases For The Money
A rifle case is the best way to transport and protect your AR to and from the range. If you are new to firearms, there are two main categories that gun cases generally fall under hard cases and soft cases.
Each category has their advantages and disadvantages, which one is best for you depends on what your needs are and what you expect to do. Before I review the cases, let me provide a short summary of the pros and cons of each style.
Soft Rifle Case
Pros – In general the soft case is lighter than the hard case making them easier to manage. So if you are just using the case for transporting your rifle or want something lightweight for hunting, a soft case might be the way to go.
You may also prefer a “backpack” style case with padded shoulder straps, I’ve only ever seen this style equipped on soft cases. One last advantage over hard cases is that soft cases can also be rolled up and stuffed in a smaller volume when not in use or can even be used as a rest for bench shooting at the range.
Cons – A soft rifle case may not provide the best protection nor be the most secure option if storing at home since not all soft cases are equipped to be locked securely.
Additionally, the soft case is prone to have the rifle(s) move around while transporting unlike a hard case that has foam inserts keeping movement to a minimum. You also need to consider if you plan to travel with your rifle since only hard cases can be used for air travel.
Hard Rifle Case
Pros – A hard rifle case as you might expect, offers more protection than a soft rifle case. The outside of the hard case is typically constructed from aluminum or a hard plastic which protects your gun from jarring transportation or when it might accidentally be dropped.
The inside of a hard card case is normally a soft padded foam that secures the rifle from shifting around and protects it from heavy impacts. This is something to consider with expensive optics that you just zero’ed at the range. Certain hard cases will also have rifle specific cutouts or will come with pre-cut squares that you can remove or “pluck” to provide the perfect fit for your rifle.
Hard cases typically come equipped with a locking feature which is helpful for storage at home and if you are traveling with your firearms you are required to use a hard case. Lastly, if you are hunting with an ATV or similar, a hard case has the potential to be bolted in place.
Cons – The main disadvantage of hard cases is that they weigh more and tend to be bulkier. As far as prices go, you will typically spend more money on a hard case. In some instances, it has been said that hard cases do not breathe as well which can be a concern when there is moisture inside the case.
Best AR Hard Cases For The Money
For those of you who want something extra secure and rugged, this AR rifle hard cases are the best value for your dollar. Be sure to check the listed dimensions against the size of your rifle(s) before purchasing!
1) Plano All Weather Tactical Gun Case
I really like the Plano All Weather Tactical Gun case, and in my opinion, this is the best bang for your buck. The case is assembled with a surprisingly robust construction and features a full-length watertight seal that will protect your pristine AR-15 in the toughest of conditions.
The interior contains “pluckable” foam that comes perforated so you can get a custom fit for your rifle. It is TSA approved with lockable latches and a built-in pressure relief valve for airline travel. Made in the good old US of A!
| Plano All Weather Tactical Gun Case | |
|---|---|
| Affordability | $$ |
| Rating | 4.8/5 |
| External Dimensions (inches) | 46 x 16 x 5.5 |
| Internal Dimensions (inches) | 43 x 13 x 5 |
| Waterproof |  |
| Lockable | |
| TSA Approved | |
| Dual Rifle Storage Capability |  |
| Current Price | Check Amazon |
2) SKB iSeries Single Rifle Case
Although I think they could have chosen a better name, the SKB iSeries Single Rifle Case is very well constructed and features gasketed waterproof seals to keep your rifle dry in harsh environments.
Made of a high-strength polymer resin and secured with four high-quality latches, you can be sure your rifle will be protected on bumpy rides or rough handling from the airlines! The interior comes with a high-quality EPS and ELE foam lining to ensure snug compression and protection for your rifle. This case durable, dependable and TSA approved for travel.
| SKB iSeries Single Rifle Case | |
|---|---|
| Affordability | $$$ |
| Rating | 4.7/5 |
| External Dimensions (inches) | 51 x 12 x 6.5 |
| Internal Dimensions (inches) | 48.9 x 9.2 x 3.6 |
| Waterproof | |
| Lockable | |
| TSA Approved | |
| Dual Rifle Storage Capability | |
| Current Price | Check Amazon |
3) Flambeau Outdoors Tactical AR Case
If you are really wanting a low-cost hard case that gets the job done, the Flambeau Outdoor Tactical AR Case is my low-cost recommendation. The plastic covering on the case is a tad on the thin side however for what you pay it is still a good value.
It is good for basic protection however I would not recommend this case for air travel. This gun storage case is lined with soft foam and features several magazine storage pockets. It is ideally sized and partitioned to transport and store a single AR-15 style rifle with standard 30 round magazines.
The case also features internal velcro straps that can be adjusted to further secure the rifle in place as well as other gear you may have. Four latches ensure secure closure and solid tampering-protection. Although not as rugged as other hard cases on the market, it is worth considering if you are on a budget.
| Flambeau Outdoors Tactical AR Case | |
|---|---|
| Affordability | $ |
| Rating | 4.4/5 |
| External Dimensions (inches) | 41.5 x 15 x 5 |
| Internal Dimensions (inches) | 40 x 12 x 4 |
| Waterproof | |
| Lockable | |
| TSA Approved | |
| Dual Rifle Storage Capability | |
| Current Price | Check Amazon |
4) Plano Pro Max Double Scoped Rifle Case
The Plano Pro Max Double Rifle Case is another great value especially if you are looking for a hard case that can easily hold two rifles with optics plus accessories.
The case is foamed lined without cutouts, however, it does have internal straps to secure each rifle and keep them from shifting around during transportation. It features six heavy-duty durable latches that will keep the case closed securely and comes with two lock locations for extra security.
Note that this case is not waterproof so keep that in mind if moisture is a concern for you. With that said if you are looking for a larger hard case that does not break the bank, this fits the bill perfectly.
| Plano Pro Max Double Scoped Rifle Case | |
|---|---|
| Affordability | $$$ |
| Rating | 4.0/5 |
| External Dimensions (inches) | 53.9 x 19.1 x 5.6 |
| Internal Dimensions (inches) | 52.8 x 16.4 x 4.5 |
| Waterproof | |
| Lockable | |
| TSA Approved | |
| Dual Rifle Storage Capability | |
| Current Price | Check Amazon |
5) Pelican 1700 Rifle Case
This case is AWESOME but will cost you some extra cash. If you are willing to spend the extra dough to get top-notch quality, this is the AR rifle case for you. The Pelican brand is known for its excellent quality and the 1700 Rifle Case is no exception.
This extremely robust watertight case is kept dry with the use of a polymer o-ring while the pressure equalization valve relieves pressure difference while traveling. Along with the rollers that make transportation a bit easier, it has some of the sturdiest hinges you will find on any case on the market.
To lock the case it comes with stainless steel reinforced padlock protectors and incredibly strong double throw latches. The interior is lined with an open cell core that must be cut to your needs. It is tough and extremely well made, I’m sure you won’t be disappointed if you go this route.
| Pelican 1700 Rifle Case | |
|---|---|
| Affordability | $$$$ |
| Rating | 4.8/5 |
| External Dimensions (inches) | 38.1 x 16 x 6.1 |
| Internal Dimensions (inches) | 35.8 x 13.5 x 5.3 |
| Waterproof | |
| Lockable | |
| TSA Approved | |
| Dual Rifle Storage Capability | |
| Current Price | Check Amazon |
6) Case Club Pre-Made AR15 Waterproof Rifle Case
This waterproof Case Club rifle case comes lined with pre-cut foam to fit your AR15 rifle. There is additional space available to hold extra magazines, a pistol, optics, rifle attachments and various accessories for your weapon.
Any adjustments needed can easily be made using a box cutter or other sharp knife. This well-built case comes with a waterproof accessory box and silica gel canister to adsorb any moisture trapped in the case. It is lockable and approved for Airline travel, just make sure the overall dimensions of your rifle do not exceed 35.45″ for it to fit in the foam cutout properly.
| Case Club Pre-Made AR15 Waterproof Rifle Case | |
|---|---|
| Affordability | $$$ |
| Rating | 4.9/5 |
| External Dimensions (inches) | 40.6 x 16.1 x 6 |
| Internal Dimensions (inches) | 36.5 x 13 x 4 |
| Waterproof | |
| Lockable | |
| TSA Approved | |
| Dual Rifle Storage Capability | |
| Current Price | Check Amazon |
AR Rifle Hard Case Comparison
| Plano All Weather Tactical Gun Case | SKB iSeries Single Rifle Case | Flambeau Outdoors Tactical AR Case | Plano Pro Max Double Scoped Rifle Case | Pelican 1700 Rifle Case | Case Club Pre-Made AR15 Waterproof Rifle Case | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Affordability | $$ | $$$ | $ | $$$ | $$$$ | $$$ |
| Rating | 4.8/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.4/5 | 4.0/5 | 4.8/5 | 4.9/5 |
| External Dimensions (inches) | 46 x 16 x 5.5 | 51 x 12 x 6.5 | 41.5 x 15 x 5 | 53.9 x 19.1 x 5.6 | 38.1 x 16 x 6.1 | 40.6 x 16.1 x 6 |
| Internal Dimensions (inches) | 43 x 13 x 5 | 48.9 x 9.2 x 3.6 | 40 x 12 x 4 | 52.8 x 16.4 x 4.5 | 35.8 x 13.5 x 5.3 | 36.5 x 13 x 4 |
| Waterproof | | | | | | |
| Lockable | | | | | | |
| TSA Approved | | | | | | |
| Dual Rifle Storage Capability | | | | | | |
| Current Price | Check Amazon | Check Amazon | Check Amazon | Check Amazon | Check Amazon | Check Amazon |
Best AR Soft Cases For The Money
If you are looking for something lightweight with a lot of storage capacity for gear, soft cases are for you. Consider which way you may want to carry your soft case.
The three main options are the traditional center handle, single shoulder strap or double “backpack” style with padded shoulder straps. Some of the soft cases below may have one or of all these options. With that said, here are my recommendations.
1) Voodoo Tactical Soft Case
As far as soft cases go, the Voodoo Tactical bag stands a little taller than the rest in terms of quality and functionality. This padded bag has enough space to hold two rifles and a couple pistols with plenty of room to spare.
Adjustable tie downs secure the rifles and keep your optics from taking a beating. You will be pleased with the level of detail and thought put into this case from the fine stitching to carefully placed padding and robust straps and pockets.
There is the main rifle compartment that holds two rifles, a second compartment with padded pouches to store two pistols and three external pouches that can hold twelve to fifteen magazines and additional ammo and cleaning kit! If that is not enough you can use the PAL webbing to attach MOLLE or ALICE pouches for even more storage capacity.
When it is time to carry the case you can use the standard center handle, the shoulder strap or backpack straps. This is a fantastic case with several color/pattern options to boot!
| Feature | Voodoo Tactical Soft Case |
|---|---|
| Affordability | $$ |
| Rating | 4.8/5 |
| External Dimensions (inches) | 42 x 16 x 6 |
| Internal Dimensions (inches) | 40.5 x 12 x 5 |
| PAL Webbing | |
| Lockable Zippers | |
| Shoulder Strap | |
| Backpack Straps | |
| Dual Rifle Storage Capability | |
| Current Price | Check Amazon |
2) Lancer Tactical 600 Denier Polyester Double Carbine Soft Case
The Lancer Tactical 600 is another great quality bag that has ample storage and a couple different carry options. I am a big fan of the padded shoulder straps that allow you to carry it like a backpack but also has the more traditional center carry handle.
The main compartment has room for two scoped rifles and has a foam center divider to keep them from touching each other. There are also internal straps to keep them put while transporting, definitely a plus although most of the time I don’t use them since the rifles stay pretty secure without them.
The second compartment has room for a couple pistols and range gear, and like the main compartment has heavy-duty zippers to close things up. There are three big external pockets that will hold over ten PMAG’s and some extra boxes of ammo. In the unlikely event that you run out of room, there are four MOLLE webbing lines on each side of the case for more storage. Great value for what you pay, also available in several color options.
| Feature | Lancer Tactical 600 Denier Polyester Double Carbine Soft Case |
|---|---|
| Affordability | $ |
| Rating | 4.7/5 |
| External Dimensions (inches) | 42 x 12 x 4 |
| Internal Dimensions (inches) | 41 x 11 x 2.8 |
| PAL Webbing | |
| Lockable Zippers | |
| Shoulder Strap | |
| Backpack Straps | |
| Dual Rifle Storage Capability | |
| Current Price | Check Amazon |
3) VISM by NcSTAR Double Carbine Case
This versatile soft case bag (available in seven colors) will accommodate two rifles and can be carried like a duffel bag or be worn like a backpack with the heavy-duty padded (and removable) straps on the back side.
The pockets have nice solid zippers that are very reliable and the padding will keep your guns protected. There are two internal straps for each rifle compartment to secure it in place with a padded divider in the middle. If you use this bag you can plan on fitting an AR-15, one AR 308, two pistols, eight magazines, several hundred rounds of ammo, eye and ear protection and a handful of various tools. Great low-cost option.
| Feature | VISM by NcSTAR Double Carbine Case |
|---|---|
| Affordability | $ |
| Rating | 4.8/5 |
| External Dimensions (inches) | 43 x 14 x 4 |
| Internal Dimensions (inches) | 40 x 12 x 3.5 |
| PAL Webbing | |
| Lockable Zippers | |
| Shoulder Strap | |
| Backpack Straps | |
| Dual Rifle Storage Capability | |
| Current Price | Check Amazon |
4) Condor Single Rifle Case
The Condor Single Rifle Case is available in various lengths and is similar to the VISM case with a couple differences. First is that since it is a single rifle case it’s a tad bit slimmer. It does have a second compartment that can hold a couple pistols or other range gear you may need.
It has the normal carry handles on top, however, rather than two backpack straps it comes with a single shoulder strap. Internal straps secure your rifle and the padding seems about the right compromise between adequate protection and bulkiness.
It has three modular pockets that are MOLLE compatible so you can add other packs and rearrange things to your preference. Lastly, if you want to lock the two main compartments you can do so at the zipper interface with a small diameter padlock.
| Feature | Condor Single Rifle Case |
|---|---|
| Affordability | $ |
| Rating | 4.8/5 |
| External Dimensions (inches) | 43 x 13 x 3 |
| Internal Dimensions (inches) | 42 x 10 x 2 |
| PAL Webbing | |
| Lockable Zippers | |
| Shoulder Strap | |
| Backpack Straps | |
| Dual Rifle Storage Capability | |
| Current Price | Check Amazon |
5) Blackhawk Sportster Tactical Rifle Case
If you are on a budget looking for a simple no frills soft case with good value, the Blackhawk Sportster is for you. Sometimes keeping things simple is the way to go, and I like this case because for the price it is well made and protects your rifle from bumps and impacts while providing some room for some magazines and ammo.
There are no internal straps to secure the rifle and it is not lockable, but again it is just a simple padded single rifle case. It is slim and offers two methods of carry: center handle and shoulder strap. It is definitely an inexpensive option to consider.
| Feature | Blackhawk Sportster Tactical Rifle Case |
|---|---|
| Affordability | $ |
| Rating | 4.5/5 |
| External Dimensions (inches) | 42.5 x 12.5 x 3 |
| Internal Dimensions (inches) | 41 x 11 x 2 inches |
| PAL Webbing | |
| Lockable Zippers | |
| Shoulder Strap | |
| Backpack Straps | |
| Dual Rifle Storage Capability | |
| Current Price | Check Amazon |
AR Rifle Soft Case Comparison
| Feature | Voodoo Tactical Soft Case | Lancer Tactical 600 Denier Polyester Double Carbine Soft Case | VISM by NcSTAR Double Carbine Case | Condor Single Rifle Case | Blackhawk Sportster Tactical Rifle Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Affordability | $$ | $ | $ | $ | $ |
| Rating | 4.8/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.8/5 | 4.8/5 | 4.5/5 |
| External Dimensions (inches) | 42 x 16 x 6 | 42 x 12 x 4 | 43 x 14 x 4 | 43 x 13 x 3 | 42.5 x 12.5 x 3 |
| Internal Dimensions (inches) | 40.5 x 12 x 5 | 41 x 11 x 2.8 | 40 x 12 x 3.5 | 42 x 10 x 2 | 41 x 11 x 2 inches |
| PAL Webbing | | | | | |
| Lockable Zippers | | | | | |
| Shoulder Strap | | | | | |
| Backpack Straps | | | | | |
| Dual Rifle Storage Capability | | | | | |
| Current Price | Check Amazon | Check Amazon | Check Amazon | Check Amazon | Check Amazon |
In conclusion, I think all the mentioned choices above are the best AR rifle cases for the money and I feel confident any one of them will serve you well. Shoot safe.
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