From time to time, you may have wondered how to take better care of your guns, susceptible to damage from various sources like scratches, dents, and corrosion, all of which can impair the functionality and safety of your gun, and may have tried many ways. But still want more protection of firearms. Gun case. That's what we are gonna talk about Today! We'd like to focus more on the soft gun case, renowned for its practical design and protective features that make it a sought-after gear among gun owners.
Characteristics of Soft Gun Cases
Material
The manufacturers of soft gun cases usually adopt lightweight and robust materials like nylon, polyester, or canvas. Nylon is selected due to its high tensile strength and flexibility, a feature that makes gun cases resistant to abrasion and tearing. Polyester is another robust material that is resistant to environmental factors, such as moisture and UV radiation. Canvas is heavier but offers great strength and a rugged look that many outdoors persons like.
Construction
The construction of a soft gun case usually features multiple layers of fabric and padding. The outer layer is made from abrasive and wear-resistant materials to ensure that the gun case endures abuse and environmental elements. Beneath this outer shell, there are placed several layers of padding to provide thorough protection to the firearm. In essence, these layers work in tandem to protect the gun from impacts, vibrations, and environmental factors.
Internal Padding
This is all about cushioning the gun and absorbing impacts to guarantee that the firearm will never be damaged during transportation or storage. Various types of padding are used, each offering unique benefits:
- Open-cell foam: Open-cell foam is recognized for its superb absorption of shock and cushioning. This foam is really lightweight and flexible; it absorbs impacts, effectively dissipating energy to prevent the firearm from being damaged. This type of foam is particularly effective for providing a soft, cushioning environment in the case.
- Closed-cell foam: This type of foam material offers higher resistance against moisture, besides being more durable in general when compared to open-cell foam. Closed-cell foam is comparatively denser, with lower permeability, making it the perfect choice for situations in which moisture resistance is of prime importance. It provides a stronger level of protection and won't shrink or compress over time, maintaining its protective properties for a longer period.
- Fleece lining: Fleece-lining wards off scratches and adds another level of softness to the firearm. Since fleece is soft around the finish of a firearm, the surface of the gun remains well. This aspect turns quite significant in the case of a high-end gun or a collector model, where the appearance of the gun becomes extremely important.
Added Features
Most soft gun cases come with features that assist in its overall usage. Some of the common features include the reinforcement of the stitching in the stress regions, heavy-duty zipper or Velcro closure for a tight seal and at times an extra storage pocket on the outside. Some have adjustable straps or handles to carry them around quickly; others feature lockable compartments for safe storage.
Benefits of Using Soft Gun Cases
Enhanced Protection from Physical Damage
- Impact Absorption and Prevention of Scratches and Dents: The padding inside soft gun cases is engineered to cushion the firearm from shocks and impacts. Imagine carrying your gun in the trunk of your car. With the vehicle in motion, items in the trunk shift and jostle. A soft gun case, with its padding, absorbs these movements, ensuring that your firearm remains unscathed. This protection is equally beneficial when you're on foot, moving through rough terrain where accidental bumps and knocks are common. The padding not only absorbs these impacts but also prevents the metal surfaces of your gun from coming into direct contact with hard objects, which could cause scratches or dents.
- Protection Against Vibration During Transportation: Transporting firearms can subject them to constant vibrations, especially over long distances or rough roads. These vibrations, if unchecked, can lead to components loosening over time. Soft gun cases act as a buffer against such continuous movement. The padded interior dampens the vibrations, thereby protecting the internal mechanisms of the firearm. This ensures that the gun remains in prime working condition, reducing the likelihood of functional issues caused by prolonged vibration exposure.
Improved Resistance to Environmental Factors
- Protection Against Moisture and Dust: Environmental factors like moisture and dust are significant threats to firearm integrity. Moisture can lead to rust and corrosion, while dust can clog moving parts, affecting performance. Soft gun cases are often treated with water-resistant coatings, which form a barrier against moisture. This is particularly useful if you're caught in the rain or need to store your firearm in a humid environment. The case's fabric repels water, preventing it from seeping in and reaching your gun. Additionally, the snug fit of a soft gun case keeps dust at bay, ensuring that the internal components of your firearm remain clean and operational.
- Breathable Materials Prevent Corrosion: The materials used in soft gun cases are designed to be breathable. This breathability is crucial in preventing moisture buildup inside the case, which can lead to corrosion. For instance, when you store your firearm for an extended period, even slight humidity can cause metal parts to rust. Breathable fabrics allow for air circulation, which helps to keep the interior dry and free from condensation. This is especially important for preserving the condition of your firearm over the long term, ensuring that it remains functional and reliable whenever you need it.
Convenience and Accessibility
- Ease of Storing and Retrieving Firearms: Soft gun cases are known for their lightweight and portable design. This makes them easy to carry around, whether you're heading to the shooting range or on a hunting trip. The design often includes zippers or Velcro closures, which allow for quick access to your firearm. This feature is particularly advantageous in situations where time is of the essence. For example, during a hunting expedition, you may need to retrieve your gun swiftly. The ease of access provided by a soft gun case ensures that you can do so without fumbling or delay.
- Additional Storage Options for Accessories and Ammunition: Another significant advantage of soft gun cases is their additional storage capabilities. Many of these cases come equipped with extra pockets and compartments designed for carrying essential accessories. You can store items like magazines, cleaning kits, and ammunition in these compartments, keeping everything organized and within easy reach. This added storage is not only convenient but also enhances the overall functionality of the gun case. It allows you to carry all your necessary gear in one compact package, making it easier to manage and transport your firearm and its accessories efficiently.
Soft vs. Hard Gun Cases
Well, it may not be a tough choice to make. Not an either-or choice. Hard cases can withstand severe impacts and crushing forces, enabled by the materials like plastic or aluminum. So, you are always involved in situations where the highest level of protection is required, such as air travel or heavy-duty transportation, go for the hard cases.
How about daily use? Soft cases are exactly what we want. Nobody likes hard cases that can be bulky, heavy, and less convenient to carry. And with a higher price tag. Soft cases are lighter, easier to carry, and more affordable. A preferred choice for everyday use, hunting trips, and short-distance transportation.
There is no denying that a soft gun case is an invaluable investment for any gun owner. It offers enhanced protection against physical damage, environmental factors, and provides convenience and accessibility. While hard gun cases have their place, the versatility and practicality of soft gun cases make them an excellent choice for many.