Handgun Cases and Bags

Handgun cases and bags protect your pistols and revolvers in transport, satisfy airline and range requirements, and provide organized storage for your handguns and accessories. Impact Guns carries lockable hard cases, padded soft cases, pistol pouches, and range bags sized specifically for handguns.

Read our full Handgun Cases & Bags Buying Guide ↓

Hard Pistol Cases for Airline Travel

Airline travel with a handgun requires a hard-sided case with a lock that only the owner controls — a TSA-approved padlock through the latch hasps satisfies this requirement. The firearm must be unloaded and declared at check-in. Most airlines require the case to fit within standard checked baggage dimensions. Pelican 1170 and similar pistol-sized hard cases are the standard choice: impact-resistant, waterproof, and sized for one or two handguns with foam inserts. If you travel with firearms regularly, a quality hard pistol case is a one-time purchase that protects a significant investment.

Soft Pistol Cases and Pouches for Range Use

For driving to the range in your own vehicle, a padded soft pistol case or pistol rug provides adequate protection and is much lighter and easier to store than a hard case. A pistol rug is the simplest option — a single-layer padded sleeve that protects the handgun from scratches and provides a clean surface at the bench. Zippered soft cases add more protection and often include a small pocket for a spare magazine or cleaning supplies. For competition shooters who need to transport multiple handguns and significant gear, a dedicated range bag with pistol compartments is more practical than individual cases.

Vehicle Transport for Concealed Carriers

Concealed carriers who enter gun-free zones face a recurring need to securely store their handgun in a vehicle. A lockable hard pistol case with a cable tether to a fixed point in the vehicle provides meaningful security against theft — significantly better than leaving a firearm loose in a glove box or under a seat. This is also the legally required method of transport in many states for non-permit holders transporting an unloaded handgun. Verify your state’s transport laws before relying on any specific method.

Sizing: Fitting a Light-Equipped Handgun

If your handgun has a weapon-mounted light or extended magazine, measure the overall dimensions before purchasing a case — particularly depth and length. Many standard pistol cases are sized for bare handguns and may not accommodate a Glock 19 with a Streamlight TLR-7 attached. Cases sized for “full-size” pistols generally accommodate light-equipped compact handguns. Double pistol cases that hold two firearms side-by-side often have more interior depth and are a better fit for accessorized handguns.

Frequently Asked Questions: Handgun Cases & Bags

What case do I need to fly with a handgun?
A hard-sided, lockable case where only you hold the key or combination. The firearm must be unloaded and declared at check-in. The case must fit within your airline’s checked baggage size limits. A Pelican 1170 or similar pistol case with TSA-approved padlocks is the standard solution.

Can I carry a loaded handgun in a case in my car?
Laws vary by state. In most states, a concealed carry permit holder can transport a loaded handgun accessible in the vehicle. Without a permit, most states require the handgun to be unloaded and in a case. Check your state’s specific laws before transporting.

What is the difference between a pistol case and a range bag?
A pistol case holds and protects one or two handguns specifically. A range bag holds all your shooting accessories — pistols, magazines, ammunition, ear and eye protection, and cleaning gear. Most range trips benefit from a range bag; airline travel requires a hard pistol case.

Browse Handgun Cases & Bags

Shop the full handgun case and bag selection at Impact Guns. For all case options, see Gun Cases & Range Bags. For rifle and shotgun cases, see Rifle & Shotgun Cases. For range backpacks, see Backpacks.