When it comes to traveling with and protecting firearms, the options today are nearly endless. Choosing the right soft gun case ensures your gear stays safe, legal, and easy to carry.

There are thousands of soft, hard, and hybrid gun cases available. Before purchasing one, you’ll need to consider your firearm type, storage needs, and even your state’s transportation laws. Look for legal terms like “secured,” “stored,” or “locked.”

Before Shopping for a Soft Gun Case

Start by identifying the firearm you plan to transport. Whether it’s a long shotgun, a scoped rifle, or an AR/MSR, you must ensure your soft gun case fits it properly. Always measure the firearm’s length and height (with optics if applicable).

When shopping, especially online, check return policies and warranties, as some stores won’t accept returns for firearm-related products. Inspect handle construction, shoulder straps, and whether the case floats — a key factor for duck hunting or waterfowl scenarios.

What to Look For

Durability, waterproof materials, and internal lining are critical. According to Ryan Ward from Browning: “Look for PVC polyester shells, fold-over flap closures, and comfortable handles that work even with hunting gloves.” Moisture trapped inside can rust your firearm — so ensure the interior is breathable and accessible for drying.

Zippers also matter. YKK zippers are superior. A poor-quality zipper may split open, exposing your firearm. A bargain case that fails once is a bad investment.

Top Soft Gun Case Picks

Browning Rugged Flex Rifle Case

This heavy-duty case features a PVC tarpaulin spine, muzzle cap, detachable shoulder strap, and padded carry handle. A soft, quilted lining and closed cell-foam offer flotation. Realtree Xtra camo, 48″ length. MSRP: $55.

Drake Side-Opening Floating Gun Case

No zipper — uses Velcro and brass snaps for easy drying. HD2 material, floats with firearm inside. MSRP: $40.

Boyt Harness Company’s Floating Rifle Case

Floats, fits scoped rifles, 46″ long, Realtree APG camo, nylon shell, foam liner, exterior pocket. MSRP: $46.

Rig ‘Em Right Primer Floating Neoprene Gun Case

For serious waterfowlers: multi-layer protection, rainproof zipper, EVA armor, dense flotation foam, Realtree Max 5 HD, 53″ long. MSRP: $89.99.

Plano Realtree Xtra Rifle Soft Case

Full-length zipper, wrap-around handles, high-density foam, hanging loop, side pocket. Great value with Realtree Xtra camouflage.

Banded Impact Gun Bag in Max-5 Camouflage

900D fabric exterior, closed-cell foam, soft PVC-lined interior, side pocket, padded shoulder strap. Fits firearms up to 54”. MSRP: under $30.

Cabela’s Northern Flight Deluxe Double Floating Gun Case

Holds two shotguns, MAX-5 camo, padded straps, canvas handles, full-length zipper, storage pockets. 52” long. MSRP: $40.

Avery Floating Gun Case

Duramax shell, cinch-strap closure, Friction Lok shoulder strap, fits 52” shotguns, side pocket with choke tube holders. MSRP: $35.

Whether you’re heading to the duck blind or traveling long distances, a quality soft gun case is essential for any hunter. For more tips on outdoor gear, check out our Dove Hunting Tips.

Source: BY MICHAEL D. FAW. www.realtree.com