The purchase of a new gun is an exciting day.  However, the shopping rarely ends with the weapon alone.  A protective case for your new handgun or rifle is a necessity for traveling and transporting your weapon.

Whether you are flying with your weapon, or simply transporting it to the range, the best cases for your gun, accessories, and ammunition will keep everything safe and sound, and be a convenient carrier.

Below is our list of the top six gun cases on the market today for 2023:

Best For Air Travel – Pelican 1720

The Pelican 1720 Watertight Protector Rifle/Gun Case is a 42 inch, NATO codified case that is MIL-C4150J, IP-67, and ATA certified.  It is made of ultra high impact structural copolymer, a strong and durable material that makes this case crushproof and dust proof.

It is watertight because the Automatic Purge Valve keeps moisture out by equalizing changes in atmospheric pressure.  Other notable features of this case include easy-open latches, folding handles, wheels, and stainless-steel reinforced padlock protectors. The best part about the Pelican 1720 is that it has an unconditional lifetime guarantee.

Pros:

• Fits one rifle with a scope, or two rifles without
• Watertight
• Crushproof and dust proof
• Wheels for easy transportation
• Easy-open latches
• Unconditional lifetime guarantee

Cons:

• Does not come with locks
• Expensive
• Heavy when filled

Most Affordable Gun Case – MTM Single Handgun Case

The MTM Single Handgun Case is an affordable hardcover case that is perfect for handguns with barrels measuring 6 inches or less.  The interior of the case is filled with thick, egg-crate style foam to insulate and protect your weapon. Interior dimensions of 12.5” x 8.1” x 3.0” leave enough room for a handgun, plus accessories or ammo, or both.

The outside of the case is made from polypropylene with a textured finish for strength and aesthetics.

Double snapping latches keep the case closed securely, while the long handle makes it easy to carry. While a lock is not included with your purchase, the MTM case does have double padlock tabs so that the case may be locked.  This case has stellar reviews from its users, who mention how pleased they are at the quality for the price.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Made of sturdy polypropylene
• Space for accessories or ammo
• Double snap latches, and padlock tabs

Cons:

• Locks not included
• Only holds one weapon

Best AR Case – Flambeau Outdoors Tactical Case

If you’re looking for a case to keep your AR or MSR safe, consider purchasing the Flambeau Outdoors Tactical Case.  The exterior of this case is made with durable plastic, while the interior is filled with convoluted foam. Both of these features combine to keep your weapon and accessories as safe as possible during transport or storage.

Hook-and-loop straps are included to safely secure your weapon within the case, as well as separate magazine storage dividers. Four locking points also provide the opportunity to secure your case.  The most unique feature about this case is the Zerust Anti-Corrosion Technology. This technology releases invisible, odorless, tasteless, and FDA-safe vapor in your case that forms a protective layer on firearms to prevent rust and corrosion.

Pros:

• Meets TSA and airline travel requirements
• Has Zerust Anti-Corrosion Technology
• Four locking points
• Comes with Hook-and-loop straps included to secure weapon
• Affordable

Cons:

• Confusing instructions
• Plastic lock tabs allow for easy break-in
• Some users complain that the latches can pop open on their own at times

Best Soft Sided Gun Case – Lancer Tactical Rifle Case

Don’t let the fact that the Lancer Tactical Rifle Case is soft-sided fool you.  This case is sturdy and provides ample protection for your weapon and accessories.  Made of high-quality, woven polyester with reinforced stitching, this fabric case resists tears or fraying, and holds up well in extreme conditions.

Every part of the interior of this bag is lined with EVA foam padding to cushion your weapons and brace them against shock. The Lancer Tactical Rifle Case also has four lines of MOLLE webbing on each side to keep accessories, ammo, and other necessities close at hand and secure.  Ruck pack straps allow you to carry the Lancer Tactical Rifle Case while maintaining the use of both hands.

Pros:

• Comes in 36” and 42” sizes
• Made of sturdy fabric with reinforced stitching
• Lined with EVA foam padding
• MOLLE webbing on both sides
• Ruck sack straps
• 1-year quality warranty

Cons:

• Hard to fit items in interior pockets when weapon/s are inside
• Exterior buckle adjustments slip

Best Multi-Weapon Case – Savior Equipment T.G.B Discreet Tactical Rifle Soft Case

The Savior Equipment Tactical Rifle Soft Case is the best case for discreetly carrying multiple weapons.  It comes in two sizes, 30 and 34 inches, to best fit the size of your rifle. The bag itself is made of strong, durable fabric, and has room for a multitude of weapon and ammo combinations.

This case is designed for concealed carry to avoid unwanted attention. Although it does not come with a lock, the zipper sliders on the main compartment are able to be locked for maximum security.

For comfort during use, the Savior Equipment Tactical Rifle Soft Case comes with padded back support. The carrying strap is also ambidextrous, so it fits both right and left-handers like a glove.

Pros:

• Allows user to carry multiple weapons and ammo discreetly
• Spacious and durable
• Padded back support
• Ambidextrous carrying strap

Cons:

• Can only be worn as a sling
• Does not include a lock
• Does not come with mag holders
• Heavy to carry if filled with weapons

Best Lock Box – Awesafe Gun Safe with Fingerprint Identification and Biometric Lock

If you are looking for a safe and secure lock box for your handgun, look no further.  The Awesafe Gun Safe is not only equipped with fingerprint identification and a biometric lock, but it is also made of pry-resistant solid steel.

This case holds two standard handguns, or one larger pistol with extra ammunition.

The interior of this case features LED lighting and a gas strut for discreet single-hand access when necessary.  Because of its size, the Awesafe Gun Safe is portable, but also works well as an under bed or car safe.

Pros:

• Fingerprint and Biometric Lock
• Can register up to 30 fingerprints
• Pry-resistant
• LED lighting
• Lightweight and portable
• 1-year factory warranty

Cons:

• LED lighting is not very bright
• Fingerprint recognition is finicky at times

Best Gun Cases Conclusion 

A case for your weapon is a necessary purchase for every gun owner.  The best gun case prevents scratches and water damage to your weapon, while keeping it safe from unauthorized access.  Choose a gun case that is specific to your needs, whether you need a case for transport, or simply for at-home storage.  Any of the cases above would be a great investment for any gun owner.