The Pelican ProGear Pistol and Accessory HardBack Case is a very flat case designed for convenient travel use that will take up minimal space in your luggage. It is built using a heavy polymer molding, is certified to be crushproof and features interior adjustable foam cutouts to securely accommodate one pistol with spare magazines or two full-sized pistols. The waterproof, lightweight case weighs just over 1.5 pounds and includes a nylon shoulder strap for easy hands-free transport. (http://www.pelican.com; 800-473-5422)
Plano’s Four Pistol/Access Case is a well-made and extremely versatile gun case. Resembling a fat briefcase, it has two interior layers of foam insulation to protect your handguns. Although it is designed to accommodate up to four full-sized handguns, I have managed to stuff twice that many guns in mine using a combination of compact, subcompact and full-sized handguns. The case features dual locks and a solid hinge for security, and can be padlocked for travel. It is a handy and economical way to transport handguns safely and securely. (http://www.planomolding.com; 800-226-9868)
The 2 Pistol .50 Ammo Can Foam turns the ubiquitous military surplus ammo can into a secure and usable pistol case. Use your own ammo can, which are inexpensive and easy to find, and insert the military-grade foam lining to easily build your own pistol case. Designed to accommodate two full-sized handguns, this innovative insert also fits spare magazines in an upright position. The military ammo can is made from steel and designed to be airtight and waterproof for long-term ammunition storage and should protect your handguns just as well.(http://www.caseclub.com; 877-412-2737)
The Micro Vault Biometric from GunVault uses the latest fingerprint scanning technology to give the user instant access to their firearm. The steel exterior is tamper proof and compact enough for easy travel. It is large enough to accommodate one full-sized handgun and a spare mag. The biometric scanner can save up to 120 fingerprints, so you can use any of your fingers to activate it and include family members as well. (http://www.gunvault.com; 800-242-1055)
Case Club’s 15 Pistol Case is for people who need to transport or secure a lot of pistols. The case will accommodate up to 15 full-sized handguns and 32 spare magazines. It is ideal for civilian or law enforcement trainers who need to supply a classroom full of students. Pistols are held in the grip-up position for easy access, and each is in its own foam pocket for protection. The case itself features multiple handles and is guaranteed for life. It is also waterproof, dust proof and has multiple points for padlocks. (http://www.caseclub.com; 877-412-2737)
Seahorse Gun Cases offers secure transport and storage at home and while traveling. The Seahorse SE630FP4 case features a shockproof, reinforced polymer shell that is watertight, airtight and dustproof. The interior features a pre-cut, high-performance foam that holds four semi-automatic handguns (up to a 1911) and 12 magazines. There is an additional space for ammunition. On the outside of the case is an automatic pressure purge system to account for elevation and atmospheric conditions, and molded padlock holes are standard with optional locking latches available. The case is rated for international and military standards, and to withstand water immersion between 15 centimeters and 1 meter for 30 minutes. The case is available in black, desert tan and forest green camo. (http://www.seahorse.net; 626-339-6673)
The Prepper Quick Draw Handgun Case from CaseCruzer makes for an excellent bug-out gun case or a practical option for everyday range use. This case holds two full-sized handguns in a quick-access, grip-up position, and offers plenty of storage space for 12 spare magazines, eye and ear protection, and spare ammunition. The case features dual hinges and dual security latches, a convenient carry handle and dual reinforced padlock points. (http://www.casecruzer.com; 909-613-1547)
The Mobile Pistol Vault by Case Club is TSA approved for transport in your checked luggage and will accommodate two full-sized handguns plus extra magazines. Made with durable Kevlar fabric, it is guaranteed against breakage through a lifetime guarantee, and that is a relief having seen how most of my luggage gets treated. The interior egg-crate-shaped foam will keep your guns secure, in place and protect them from damage. It also features an external combination lock (no fumbling with padlocks) along with a key lock. (http://www.caseclub.com; 877-412-2737)
The new Loaded Gear HD-200 Hard Case by Barska is now available in the popular Flat Dark Earth color and features a watertight, reinforced, compact design. This hard-sided case will protect fragile electronics and optics as well as your firearms during transport. The O-ring lining completely seals the case from the outside elements and with the two exterior latches makes it airtight. An exterior purge valve equalizes the case for pressurization at different elevations or when flying. (http://www.barska.com; 888-666-6769)
The Outback 30C is a tough, airline-approved pistol case. The outside is made from a solid piece of high-density polyethylene composite with no seams. This material is strong and flexible to absorb shocks and prevents damage to the contents. It is also lightweight and scratch resistant, and it features a built-in key lock and additional padlock holders for security. (800-875-3322; http://www.vanguardworld.com)
The Hornady RAPiD safe is designed for fast access with virtual hands-free operation thanks to its use of a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) reader. The safe is made from 16-gauge steel and includes a 1,500-pound steel cable so it can be secured to a solid object. The top-opening hinge is pry resistant and exceeds ASTM International standards against tampering. The lid has a spring-assisted opening system that, when activated, quickly raises and presents your handgun. Opening the safe can be accomplished with either a four-button programmable code, a key-operated backup system or an RFID system that works with a radio signal from a key fob, wallet card or wrist band. (http://www.hornady.com; 800-338-3220)
Built to stand up to the everyday abuses of travel, this airtight and watertight case can fit over 50 styles of pistols, including 1911 handguns, while utilizing a one-cavity MultiFit design for each firearm. A separate cavity allows for the storage of three additional magazines. The MultiFit 2 Pistol Case offers an automatic pressure purge system for elevation adjustments and molded-in padlock holes for increased security. Military-grade, closed-cell foam is used throughout the design. The case is offered with Quick Fire Cases’ lifetime guarantee and is currently available in black, gray, desert tan and pink. (http://www.quickfirecases.com; 800-819-4245)
Proper storage and security for a firearm is essential both at home and when traveling. With the wide array of solid and well-built gun cases that are now available, there is little excuse not to have your gun well protected both from thieves as well as from curious children.
Traveling with firearms also presents a challenge, as there are various local and state laws that affect your possession of some types of guns outside your home state. Indeed, traveling by car or air across state lines requires you to follow specific guidelines. A good solid and compact case that allows you to take your self-defense tools with you is a big part of what makes travel possible. Without further ado, here is a collection of new gun cases worth your consideration if you’re in the market for one.
