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You’ve got your dream AR-15, but how do you transport it? Do you stick it under a blanket in your trunk or find a huge backpack for it?
A better option would be to get a case specifically designed for an AR-15 rifle. Even though it may be more expensive than a duffel bag, you won’t regret the decision.
Make sure you invest in a quality AR-15 case with our list of the top choices below.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Best AR-15 Cases
- OUR TOP PICK: Bulldog Cases Ultra Compact In. AR-15
- RUNNER-UP: VISM Padded 28in Soft Gun Case w/Shoulder Sling
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Safariland Dual Rifle Case
Comparison of the Best AR-15 Cases
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Do I Need a Case For My AR-15?
Yes, it would be best if you had an AR-15 case. Transporting a firearm can be potentially dangerous to the gun, you, and others. You don’t want the rifle banging around in your trunk or the back of your truck, nor do you want an accident to happen if anyone else handles it.
The best way to protect your AR-15 and the people around it by investing in a durable case.
Another reason for getting a case is to avoid any uncomfortable encounters. If you’ve ever gotten strange looks or rude comments while carrying your AR-15, a more discreet case will let you transport your firearm without any awkward glances.
Bulldog Cases Ultra Compact In. AR-15
What Makes a Great Case For an AR-15?
If you do a simple search for AR-15 cases, you’ll end up with hundreds of options. So, how do you know which one to get? Here are three of the top things to look for in your next case.
Durability
Just like a decent backpack needs to be durable, make sure to choose an AR-15 case that will withstand the wear and tear of transportation and adverse weather. If you get caught in the rain or snow, you want your case to provide sufficient protection.
Check the material and any waterproofing protection of the case before you buy an AR-15 case.
Reliability
Imagine you get a supposedly top-notch AR-15 case, just for it to break a few weeks later. To avoid any frustration, make sure the case you get has lasting materials. From the zippers to the internal padding, ensure the design is reliable, and check for any company warranties.
Aesthetics
While the style might not be as important as the level of protection, it does help make a great AR-15 case. You want to be proud of the case you carry around, just like you treasure your sleek rifle.
The case’s style is also crucial if you want a more discrete carrier. If you don’t want people to notice that you are transporting an AR-15, try for a more generic-looking case that won’t stand out and cause uncomfortable looks or conversations.
Review of the Best AR-15 Cases
Are you ready to check out the top AR-15 cases? There’s no need to worry about the hundreds of available choices because we have already scoured the web and narrowed down the options to a select few.
Best Overall:
Bulldog Cases Ultra Compact In. AR-15
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Between the quality and discreet look, recent buyers were delighted with this compact case. They also loved quality protection for a low price, saying that it stood up against much more expensive cases.
Even though most customers loved the fit, some complained that they could use more storage. They also didn’t like that the D-ring was on the wrong side. When they hang up the case, the mags fall out of the pockets.
Nevertheless, this compact case is a clear favorite among AR-15 users.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Bulldog Ultra-Compact case is the perfect combination of style and protection.
We love that this product doesn’t look like a rifle case, giving you the freedom to carry it around without any uncomfortable conversations. It measures a short 29 inches and is perfect for short-barrel or folding AR-15s.
Just because the case is small doesn’t mean it doesn’t keep your AR-15 safe. The case gives complete protection with a water-resistant Tetron outer shell and a brushed tricot scratch-resistant inner lining.
As an added plus, this compact case has wrap-around carry handles and extra magazine pouches.
Bottom Line
This product is our best overall AR-15 case for good reason. It combines quality, security, and aesthetics into one affordable case.
Runner-up:
VISM Padded 28in Soft Gun Case w/Shoulder Sling
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Customers loved the small size and incredibly low price. They stated that they loved the lightweight feel, storage pockets, and durable construction.
Only a few buyers said they wanted some added padding, but they were satisfied with the design considering it was a compact case. A couple of people commented that the sizing was wrong since the true size is even smaller than 28 inches.
Despite those few negative comments, the overwhelming majority loved this case.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We love this compact AR-15 case that is easy to carry and has extra storage space.
At only 28 inches, the case is great for AR pistols and folding rifles. You can carry them easily with the padded handle straps or the comfortable shoulder sling.
Even though this case is much smaller than the standard AR-15 case, it still proves space for you to carry extra magazines, bullets, or even earplugs.
We can’t forget about the lockable metal zippers and exterior PVC material that is chemical and water-resistant.
Bottom Line
If you want to save money while protecting your AR-15, this VMS case is a fantastic option. This AR-15 case has everything you could want in a soft case, from the small size to the superior material and storage space.
Best for the Money:
Safariland Dual Rifle Case
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
It was hard to find a negative comment about this Safariland rifle case. The majority of buyers love the extra space, quality, and security.
A few people mentioned that they needed more padding and accessory pockets, but others stated that there was plenty of storage space, and the case offered a secure fit.
In general, recent buyers were thrilled with their purchase, especially the low cost for a dual rifle case.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Why get a case that fits one rifle when you can get a dual rifle case? With this Safariland case, you can save money and safely transport two rifles at once.
Even though it is a soft case, it offers stellar protection with a ballistic pack cloth material, closed-cell foam padding, and heavy-duty zippers.
You also get an adjustable shoulder harness for easy transportation of this 36 or 46-inch case. Plus, there are accessory pockets inside to pack extra mags and other materials.
Bottom Line
The Safariland case provides plenty of room yet incredible durability and strength for your AR-15s. The best part is the affordable price since you can transport not one but two rifles with this case.
Best AR-15 Hard Case:
Pelican 1700 Watertight Protector Rifle Cases
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most customers agree that this Pelican case is excellent for land and air transportation of your AR-15. They loved the durability in extreme weather, the locking capabilities, and customizable foam.
The only major complaint was about the price and weight, but many other customers stated they needed an expensive case for their costly AR-15.
Why it Stands Out to Us
With a hard AR-15 case, you expect superior protection and durability, and this Pelican product delivers both of those features.
The case has ultra high impact structural copolymer, ABS latches, and neoprene o-ring seal for the utmost protection as you transport your AR-15. Since this unbreakable, crushproof, and watertight case weighs an extra 17 pounds, Pelican has included durable transport wheels.
You don’t need to take our word about the next-level case. Pelican ensures that each case passes standards from Ingress Protection, Air Transportation Association, and Military Standard.
Other great features include the high-density foam and automatic purge valve for changes in air pressure.
Bottom Line
If you’re willing to pay a bit more and haul around a heavier case, this product is exceptional. It will protect your AR-15 from everything, including harsh blows, water, air, and dust.
Best AR-15 Soft Case:
Leapers DC Series 38x12in
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The customers loved this soft case, especially the low price tag. Many people were surprised that they could get durable material, lasting zippers, and a water-resistant outer layer for such an affordable price.
One common complaint was that the case ran small. Because it keeps your gun closely packed, there isn’t much room for a mounted scope. Some people even pointed out that the 43-inch sizing was not accurate, as it reached closer to 41 inches.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This soft case has everything you need for excellent protection. You can get 600 Denier woven fabric, double stitching, and an inner flap for an affordable price. Each of these aspects gives quality protection in a lightweight carrier.
Another great feature is the wrap-around web handles so you can carry your gun without worrying the straps will break. Plus, the zipper runs around the whole outer edge of the case so you can open the case completely flat.
We also love the extra space for storage. There are five magazine pouches, a zippered pocket, and a center storage area.
Bottom Line
If you want a soft AR-15 case that gives hard cases some stiff competition, this case from Uncle Mike is a fantastic option. From the superior construction to several storage pouches, this soft case is a great, affordable option.
Aspects to Consider Before Buying
Don’t just buy the first case that looks cool. Take some time to consider these key components before investing in a new case.
Size
Not all AR-15s are the same size, so check the measurements before buying a case. While a 36-inch case is a standard size, it may not work for your larger rifle.
Material
From the external material to the zippers, make sure the construction of the case is top-notch. You want a long-lasting case that can withstand rough transportation and exposure to the elements.
Plus, considering the material affects the overall weight of the case. Do you want a heavy-duty case that weighs a couple more pounds or a soft case that is easy to carry? Make the best choice for your capabilities and habits.
Price
Price is always a vital part of any purchase, especially when you want to buy accessories for your AR-15. Since cases can range in price from under $20 to over $200, there are plenty of quality options within your budget.
Perks of Getting a New Case For Your AR-15
You may be overwhelmed by all the available accessories for your AR-15, but buying a new case is especially exciting.
Protection and Security
Keep your AR-15 in top condition, free of scratches or dings, with your stellar case. The padding and durable exterior material will keep all parts of the rifle protected even in an accident.
Plus, you don’t have to worry about you or others handling the gun if you safely store it in its case.
VISM Padded 28in Soft Gun Case w/Shoulder Sling
Ease of Travel
Whether you’re taking a long road trip or flying to a new hunting location, a quality AR-15 case can make it easy to travel anywhere with your rifle. With a superior case, you don’t have to worry about potentially damaging your rifle while traveling or walking around with an exposed AR-15.
Storage
Yes, a case provides excellent storage for your firearm, but many options also include extra storage space for mags, ammo, or anything else you would like to carry with your rifle.
AR-15 Case Types
If you aren’t sure which case to get, here are three of the most popular types available.
Hard Case
Hard cases offer superior protection and security, but they may be a bit bulky and heavy to carry around. People who travel a lot and take their rifles with them anywhere usually choose a hard case.
Soft Case
For a lightweight, easy-to-carry case, invest in a soft case. Most people buy these since they are easier - and quieter - for hunting trips.
All-Weather
All-weather AR-15 cases are ideal for people who use their firearms frequently, no matter the weather. Manufacturers of these cases ensure that the outer layer will withstand water, snow, wind, and even flying debris.
Most all-weather cases have a hard exterior, but some soft case options protect your AR-15 from water. While they aren’t as durable as all-weather cases, these softer options are often water-resistant.
Soft Case vs Hard Case AR-15 - Comparison Overview
There is plenty of debate about whether you need a hard or soft AR-15 case, but the final decision comes down to how you will use the case.
The main advantage of a hard case is the incredible durability. You can trust that your rifle will stay safe, whether you put it in water or under the wheel of a truck. Hard cases have incredible impact protection and stability to counteract crushing forces.
However, hard cases cost a lot more than soft cases. Plus, they are usually heavy and bulky, making them slightly difficult to lug around.
Soft cases are much more affordable and lightweight. For hunters, these cases are the perfect option because they are by far the quieter option. While they aren’t as waterproof as hard cases, they usually have a water-resistant coating and can float on water.
The downside is that they don’t provide as much protection as the hard cases, and you may not be able to put a lock on the case.
The best case for you depends on your budget and how much protection you need for your AR-15.
Conclusion
With all these fantastic firearm cases to choose from, which one will be the next addition to your collection of AR-15 accessories? Think about the material, price, and durability as you consider which case to buy. Then, enjoy your travels as you safely transport your AR-15!
People Also Ask
Just because you’re looking at AR-15 cases online doesn’t mean you can’t get all the answers to your questions!
Below you’ll find our answers to some of the most common inquiries we receive concerning AR-15 rifle cases.
Can an AR-15 Fit in a Backpack?
The answer depends on what type of AR-15 you have and the size of the backpack.
If you have an AR-15 pistol, it will probably fit in a large or standard-sized backpack, especially if you disassemble the pistol. You can also get a Law Tactical Folding Buffer tube adapter to keep the pistol mostly intact while carrying it in a backpack.
While you probably won’t be able to fit an AR-15 rifle in a normal backpack, there are plenty of stealth backpacks that discreetly store your firearm while looking like a normal backpack.
How Much is an AR-15 Case?
AR-15 cases vary dramatically in price, reaching from just under $20 to well over $200. The cheaper options are soft cases, while the most expensive options include a hard, durable material.
What Length Rifle Case for AR-15?
The length of your rifle case depends on the size of your rifle. As a general rule, take your AR-15 rifle’s full length and add two inches to get the minimum case length requirement.
However, a 36-inch case is a perfect option for most AR-15s, although the cases can range from just under 23 inches to over 50 inches.