Rifle, Shotgun Cases

A rifle or shotgun case protects your long guns in transport and storage, satisfies airline requirements for checked firearms, and keeps scopes, stocks, and finishes from damage. Impact Guns carries hard cases, soft cases, double rifle cases, and scoped rifle cases for every transport need.

Read our full Rifle & Shotgun Cases Buying Guide ↓

Measuring for the Right Length Case

Measure your rifle or shotgun at its longest configuration before purchasing a case — include any attached muzzle device, suppressor, or extended stock. A standard AR-15 with 16-inch barrel and collapsed stock measures approximately 32–35 inches; a 36-inch case is the standard fit. A precision bolt-action with a 24-inch barrel may measure 45–48 inches overall; a 52-inch case provides adequate room with space for accessories. For shotguns with 28-inch barrels, a 50-inch case is typical. When in doubt, go longer — a case that’s two inches too short is unusable, and a few extra inches of case adds minimal bulk.

Hard Cases for Maximum Protection

Hard rifle cases provide the best protection for scoped precision rifles, valuable long guns, and airline transport. Pelican rifle cases with pre-cut or customizable foam are the industry standard — they survive baggage handling, stacking, and rough vehicle transport without transmitting impact to the firearm. For a quality bolt-action rifle with an expensive scope, a hard case is the correct choice. Most hard rifle cases include locking hasps for airline travel and are waterproof, protecting the firearm and optics from moisture as well as impact.

Soft Cases for Range and Vehicle Use

Soft rifle and shotgun cases are lighter, more flexible for storage, and adequate for driving to the range. A padded soft case protects against scratches, dust, and minor impacts — sufficient for most daily transport needs. Double-zipper designs allow one-handed opening for faster access. MOLLE webbing on the exterior lets you attach accessories. For competitive shooters who need to transport a rifle, spare magazines, and shooting gear to a match, a longer soft case with side pockets or a combined rifle-and-gear bag is more practical than separate cases.

Scoped Rifle Cases: Protecting Your Optic

A standard soft rifle case provides minimal protection for a mounted optic — the scope can shift or take an impact that throws it off zero. Scoped rifle cases with rigid panels or hard shells on the exterior provide much better scope protection without the full weight of a hard case. For a hunting rifle that will be thrown in a truck bed or aircraft cargo hold, a scoped soft case with reinforced exterior panels is the minimum; a full hard case is preferred. Always confirm your scope is still zeroed after transport before hunting or competition use.

Frequently Asked Questions: Rifle & Shotgun Cases

What length case fits an AR-15?
A standard AR-15 with 16-inch barrel and collapsed stock fits in a 36-inch case. With a 20-inch barrel, a 42-inch case is the standard. Measure your specific rifle with any attached muzzle device before purchasing — suppressor-equipped rifles require significantly longer cases.

Can I fly with a rifle or shotgun?
Yes. Long guns must be unloaded, in a hard-sided locked case, and declared at check-in as checked baggage. The case must lock in a way that only the owner can open. Pelican and similar hard cases with locking hasps are the standard choice for airline travel with long guns.

Do I need a hard case or soft case for my hunting rifle?
For airline travel or any transport where the rifle may be stacked or roughly handled, a hard case is required. For driving to a local range or hunting location in your own vehicle, a quality scoped soft case with reinforced exterior panels is adequate and much lighter to carry.

Browse Rifle & Shotgun Cases

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