The 6 Best AR Pistol Cases

As you are reading this I guess you are wondering should you get a hard or a soft case for your AR Pistol? I’ll give you the pros and cons of them both as well as a list of the best AR Pistol Cases available both soft and hard. I’ll also cover what you need to look for in a pistol case.

	Boyt Harness H-Series Hard Sided Travel Case	Hard 36.5″ x 13.5″ x 4.5″ Has 120D no-break polypropylene material No shoulder strap Heavy weight	$108 Shop NowClick to read my review
	Bulldog Cases Ultra Compact AR-15 Discreet Case	Soft 29″ x 3″ x 11″ Can carry firearms measuring up to 27 inches Do not fit all SBRs and AR-15 pistols	$57 Shop NowClick to read my review
Top Pick	Flambeau Tactical Hard Case	Hard 40″ x 12″ x 4″ TSA-approved Clips that lock the case often come off	$72 Shop NowClick to read my review
	Nectar VSIM Deluxe AR & AK Pistol and Subgun Gun Case	Soft 27.5″ x 11″ x 5.8″ Comes with carrying handles and shoulder straps Not resistant to moisture	$39 Shop NowClick to read my review
	Plano Gun Guard AW Tactical Gun Case	Hard 52″ x 15.7″ x 4.3″ Dri-Loc Sealing provides case resistance against extreme weather conditions A bit heavy to carry	$85 Shop NowClick to read my review
Best Budget Buy	UTG Covert Homeland Security Case	Soft 34″ x 12″ x 2″ Has padded carrying handles and shoulder straps Some AR pistols may not fit inside	$48 Shop NowClick to read my review

Hard Case or Soft Case?

The most common types of pistol cases are hard and soft. So, let’s have a brief overview of these two types of AR-15 pistol cases.

Hard Case

As its name implies, hard cases come with a hard shell. In fact, most manufacturers use either polymer or aluminum for their entire exterior. In addition, these materials give the cases strong resistance against factors like water and dust. Due to their material components, hard cases are also durable and indestructible. As such, they provide the ultimate protection for your AR-15 pistol.

Despite its sturdy appearance, a hard case also has its letdowns. First, its bulky weight makes it difficult to carry while walking or running. Also, hard cases tend to take up a lot of space. Therefore, expect to have a hard time when you use one while being in crowded places like subways. Still, hard cases make reliable storage space for your weapons.

Soft Case

If you don’t like the idea of carrying heavy stuff, a soft case is a way to go. Unlike hard cases, soft cases use neoprene or nylon as their main material. The said fabrics contribute to the containers’ hard-to-tear and tough attributes. Plus, the case’s interior has thick padding for shock absorption when dropped to a hard surface. Soft cases are smaller in size compared to hard ones.

Due to its construction, using a soft case also has some disadvantages. First, its shock absorption feature has limitations. When dropped from heights like 10ft or higher, your pistol might get scratched or damaged. Or worse, it could even break from the impact. Also, soft cases provide weaker resistance to water compared to hard cases. Even so, soft cases make better alternatives when it comes to size and portability.

Either case works fine but each has its perks in specific situations. For instance, hard cases are suitable for traveling by plane. Additionally, most of them are TSA-approved so you won’t have any issues during baggage checkouts at airports. On the other hand, soft cases are lighter to carry and easier to transport by car. In short, choose the type of case that could bring you the most benefit for holding your gun.

How To Pick Your AR-15 Pistol Case

Like any other buying guide, it’s important to check the quality of the item you’re planning to get. This also goes the same when it comes to picking a case for your firearm. As such, here’s a list of the things you need to check when choosing the best AR pistol cases for your guns:

Material

As discussed in the previous section, decide if you want to have a hard case or a soft case. Each case uses different materials that make up its structure and offer perks. For example, an aluminum hard case is resistant to several elements like dust. In contrast, a neoprene soft case makes it hard to tear and is water-resistant. Hence, you already have an idea of which case to pick based on the examples I’ve mentioned above.

Price

Another thing that you need to watch out for in a gun case is its pricing. More often than not, hard cases also have more expensive prices compared to soft cases. But remember: the price is only one factor to consider when buying an AR-15 pistol case. Hence, invest in a gun case that can provide you convenience for a long time.

Shape and Size

For this factor, we’re not only talking about the gun case alone. Instead, you also need to consider your gun’s size in selecting your pistol case. Besides, if you don’t mind taking your AR-15 apart, a soft case may do you good. But if you prefer to take your gun out in an instant, you’re better off with a hard AR-15 case. This is also a vital factor to take into account when browsing what to buy. This helps you save money and stop you from buying the wrong case for your firearm.

Compartments

Nothing beats an excellent gun case with the interior it offers. Besides the exterior, you also need to buy a gun case that allows you to carry other stuff. For instance, a lot of cases have extra compartments to store magazines. In addition, you can also look out for other parts like straps, padding, and the like inside a case. It’s best to pick a pistol case that provides you more room and protects your gun from getting damaged.

General Apperarance

We also aim to appear inconspicuous in public. Many of us don’t wish people to know we’re carrying a self-defense weapon with us. As such, we also need to take note of a gun case’s design. Additionally, some hard cases take in the appearance of guitar holders. Soft cases are also available in different colors to keep their low-profile appearance. A great AR-15 gun case is one that doesn’t give away that you have a gun with you.

Carry Style/ Preference

Do you prefer slinging your case to your shoulder? Or do you prefer to carry it briefcase-style? No matter what your preference is, a variety of pistol cases can provide you with such a feature. Pick a case that lets you carry it from your preference.

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6 Best AR Pistol Cases in 2021

Out of hundreds of candidates, only six made the cut for this year’s best AR pistol case.

Boyt Harness H-Series Hard Sided Travel Case

Boyt Harness produces the best gun gear over the years. Of course, this includes the company’s Hard Sided Travel Case. This case’s outstanding feature is its O-ring. The O-ring runs along the case’s full length. This protects your firearms from getting exposed to moisture and dust. To add, this makes it immune to extreme weather conditions like hot summer days. Also, this option has an internal length of over 36 inches. As such, it allows you to hold several AR pistols and a single AR rifle. A huge thumbs up for its expansive compartment.

This case is all black and has a 120D no-break polypropylene material construction. For the locks, this item uses four latches coated in steel powder. With this, the latches are also durable and don’t break when they hit a hard surface. On the top of the case, there’s a single carrying handle installed. This lets you hold the case with only one hand. The video below shows you a short review of the Hard Sided Travel Case:

Next, let’s discuss the case’s interior. For starters, the inside of the case consists of a thick padded and high-density foam. With this, you can arrange your firearms and accessories to your liking. Unlike soft cases, it doesn’t have any special pockets. Still, you can stash extra stuff for your gun inside for transportation. In general, we can say that the Hard Sided Travel Case is one of the best heavy-duty AR pistol cases out there. This is the priciest case in this review but all that pays off with its cool set of features.

Bulldog Cases Ultra-Compact AR-15 Discreet Carry Case

With soft cases, you may want something that’s low-profile. At the same time, it should also fulfill its purpose in holding your gun. Hence, the Discreet Case is your best contender. Crafted by Virginia-based company Bulldog, this case has nylon material construction. This gives the case its robust exterior. To add, its outer shell is also water-resistant. Since this is a soft case, keep in mind that its water resistance trait is weaker compared to a hard case. Regardless, this helps protect your AR-pistol from getting damaged by water.

Next, let’s take a look at the Discreet Case’s other features. Dubbed as “Ultra-Compact,” this is one of the smallest cases marketed in today’s retail. With a length of 27 inches, this case could store guns lesser or within that size range. Plus, the case’s padding consists of 2.5 inches of foam. Thanks to its tricot inner lining, the Discreet Case is also impervious to heat. Brownells gave its quick overview of the case through the video below:

Besides the main compartment, the Discreet Case also offers extra pockets. For instance, this case has two pouches installed to keep extra magazines for your guns. Furthermore, there’s also a padded divider included. This separates your guns and accessories in an organized fashion. The case also comes with wrap-around carry handles so you can carry it with one hand. Also, heavy-duty custom zippers give the case a strong lock system. Plus, you can also choose from two colors: black and navy blue.

To conclude, the Discreet Case is a soft case built to last you a lifetime. If you’re looking for one of the best AR pistol cases to fit your AR-15 pistol, this product has the right size.

Flambeau Tactical Hard Case

The Flambeau Hard Case is one of the most durable gun cases included in this review. In fact, one of this case’s best features lies in its Zerust Anti-Corrosion Technology. This includes an anti-corrosion Zerust tab that releases corrosion matter. The said tab suppresses vapor, creating a protective layer on the case’s metal component. As such, this stops rust from forming and destroying your case and weapons. Plus, this also comes along with protection lasting up to 5 years. If you’d like to have a case that doesn’t rust or harm your gun, the Hard-Case by Flambeau is your wise option.

When it comes to its appearance, the Flambeau Hard Case has a rugged construction layout. The general framework of this case consists of hard plastic material. This shields your firearms from wear and tear and hard impact, making them durable. Also, the interior has convoluted foam that provides extra support for your AR pistol. If you drop your case onto the floor, your gun still stays safe and unharmed inside.

In addition, this case has four locking points for safe closure. Since it’s TSA-approved, you’ll have an easy time carrying it almost everywhere you want to go. It also meets airline requirements so you can bring this case to the airport with no issues. For instance, see how YouTuber Patriot MJB set up his Flambeau Hard Case by watching the video below:

The Flambeau Hard Case has a smart storage design. This includes a 10” x 13” magazine storage and a main compartment for storing your ammo and AR pistol. In addition, the said components also have anti-corrosion Zerust technology and Velcro straps in them. These also help secure your guns and magazines inside the case. So, no matter how your case swings around or gets knocked out, your weapons and ammo remain safe.

Ncstar VISM Deluxe AR & AK Pistol and Subgun Gun Case

Ncstar’s VISM Case is one of the most popular AR gun cases existing in the current market. Its popularity lies in many people’s positive reviews and I can also attest to that. First, let’s talk about this case’s structure. The PVC material accounts for the VISM Case’s heavy duty and sturdy appearance. This also causes it to have resistance against not only water but also chemicals. Now that is an immunity you don’t see much in many AR gun cases.

Measuring 28 inches long, the VISM Case can store both AR rifles and pistols alike. You can do this thanks to its main compartment. Inside, you can put many types of weapons you can think of. Moreover, two AR/AK pistols, subguns, carbines – you name them, this case could fit it all. Also, the center has a divider to protect the two firearms you’ve stashed in there. You can also find compression straps to hold them in place. For a hands-on review, you can check out the video below:

Furthermore, the front of the case has three large exterior pockets. Here, you can house magazines, accessories, or other gun gear that you have. It’s also available in different shades like black, tan, green, and urban gray. Additionally, heavy-duty zippers also help secure all VISM Case’s compartments. Unlike the cases we’ve covered so far, this not only has a pair of padded carrying handles. Instead, it also has a shoulder strap that connects to attached D-Rings. Hence, you can carry this bag in any way you like.

To conclude, the VISM Case is an excellent pick for gunowners with one or two AR pistols. It’s also a practical case to use when taking weekend trips to your local shooting range.

Plano Gun Guard AW Tactical Case

One of the best features that the AW Tactical Case has is its general construction. It’s designed to withstand severe weather, bumps, bangs, and other conditions. To add, this case’s resistant material keeps out moisture and airborne dirt from damaging your gun. All this is possible with the AW Tactical Case’s Dri-Loc Sealing aspect.

Next, the inside of the case has two layers of high-density foam padding. Like the Hard Sided Travel Case, this lets you arrange your stuff in many different ways. For instance, you can organize your weapons, magazines, and extra gear on the flat foam side. Plus, the hard case locks with four latches. These latches use an integrated press-release valve system for easy access. You can watch Vaughn Precision’s thorough analysis of the AW Tactical Case right here:

The center of the case has an attached single and textured carrying handle. So far, this is one of the few cases that is available in various sizes. In addition, you can select between a 36 and 42-inch case. I picked the 36-inch option as the most ideal case in this review. In brief, the AW Tactical Case is most suitable for travelers and those who own a variety of firearms. But you’ll also need to adjust the space to balance the inside’s weight distribution.

UTG Covert Homeland Security Case

Another soft AR gun case, the Security Case secures its spot on our Top 6 due to good reasons. Like the AW Tactical Case, it also offers different size options for you to choose from. With this, you can select case sizes that range from 25 to 42 inches. To make the most out of its features, I recommend picking the 32-inch model. This could fit most AR pistols and rifles that you can think of. Plus, it’s not too bulky or huge to struggle to carry it in public places.

Like most soft cases, the Security Case has high-density foam padding in its main compartment. This component helps shield your two firearms from bumps and bangs. Also, the case has six adjustable hook and loop straps to keep your AR pistols secured in place. Like the VISM Case, it has padded carrying handles and shoulder straps included. Thus, you can carry the Security Case in a briefcase- or shoulder-slung style. Youtuber Kotaboy32 dished out his quick review of the Security Case in this video:

Like its main pocket, the Security Case’s front compartment consists of thick foam padding. It also includes eight elastic loops and three deluxe rifle magazine pouches. To ensure case safety, all the Security Case’s compartments have heavy-duty zippers. Due to its sleek design, this case also serves as your ideal discreet AR-15 gun case.

Conclusion

For the best budget AR-15 gun case, I recommend UTG’s Security Case. Its size and compartments let you carry any AR pistol you like. However, for our top pick, I would give the honor to the Flambeau Hard Case. Now, which of our shortlist of the best AR pistol cases is your favorite? I’d love to get your insights through our comments section below! 

Relevant Posts:

• Best AR-15 Soft Cases
• The Best AR-15 Hard Cases
• Best Concealed Carry Backpacks and Bags