Hard vs. Soft Rifle Cases

November 8, 2023
Blain's Farm & Fleet

Learn about the pros and cons of hard and soft rifle cases.

A rifle case not only makes it easier to transport your gun, but it protects it, too. Rifle cases generally fall into one of two categories: hard cases and soft cases. Both have their pros and cons.

Whether you’re flying to your hunting spot or throwing your rifle in the back of your truck, Blain’s Farm & Fleet is here to help you choose the best rifle case for your needs.

Hard Rifle Cases

Pros

  • Typically made of plastic or aluminum to offer more exterior protection from the elements and other outside forces.
  • Interior is lined with foam to protect gun from impact & keep it from shifting around in the case.
    • Tip: when looking at interior foam, the thicker the better. Some cases will come with model-specific foam for the perfect fit.
  • If you’re flying with firearms, you will need a TSA-approved hard case.

Cons

  • Typically more expensive than a soft case.
  • Bulkier and heavier than soft cases, which can make transport difficult.

Soft Rifle Cases

Pros

  • Lightweight & easy to carry on hunting trips.
  • Quieter than hard cases, making them a great option when you’re actually in the woods.
  • Waterfowl hunters often use ones that are waterproof & designed to float.
  • Can serve a dual purpose as a cushion when the gun isn’t inside.

Cons

  • Isn’t as secure as a hard case. Some hard cases come with a locking system, and soft ones do not.
  • Won’t keep your gun in place like the foam interior of a hard case will.
  • Not TSA-approved.
    • Note: If planning on flying with your firearms, it’s still a good idea to bring a soft gun case or gun sock with you for when you’re actually hunting. This way, you won’t have to haul around the hard case.

Other Rifle Case Features to Keep in Mind

If you plan on flying to your hunting destination, you need a hard case for transport. Look for an Air Transport Association (ATA) approved case.

An ATA-approved case designates that the case is durable enough for air travel. However, size and weight restrictions still apply as far as getting your gun through check-in.

You also need to know your state’s requirements for transport. Most states require that you have your firearm in a case for any mode of transport.

These requirements can range from a simple gun sock or sleeve to a latching, lockable hard case. It’s important to know the state requirements before purchasing a rifle case.

Safety

Whether you’re looking for a hard or soft rifle case, you need one that’s lockable. Hard cases can come with a locking system, while most soft cases have zippers that can be padlocked.

A locking rifle case not only keeps your firearms safe, but it also helps keep kids away from your guns. Plus, when you’re flying, your case needs to be locked.

It’s also a good idea to put a sticker or other marker on your case to make your gun more identifiable when you’re traveling.

At Blain’s Farm & Fleet, we understand there’s a lot of options for hunting equipment storage. That’s why we offer a variety of gun cases, safes, and cabinets to fit your needs. With durable brands like Allen, Plano, and Flambeau, your firearms can be safely and securely stored until your next hunting trip.

For more tips and buying guides like this one, visit our Hunting Blog.