An essential piece of equipment for any airsoft player is a high-quality protective case to transport your airsoft guns, magazines, batteries, tools, and other gear to and from the field. Investing in the right airsoft gun bag or case is important to keep your equipment organized, protected, and easy to carry.
With many types and options available, choosing the ideal case can be challenging if you don’t know what to look for. This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when picking the best airsoft gun bag or case for your needs and budget.
Read on to learn how to select the perfect size, protection level, features, and carrying options so you can play airsoft safely and conveniently.
What are Some Key Features to Look for in an Airsoft Gun Case?
When choosing an airsoft gun case, there are several useful features to consider that will enhance the functionality and protection of your gear:
- Padding – Make sure the case has ample interior padding to prevent your airsoft guns from bumping into each other and getting damaged. Thick padded dividers and foam pads are ideal.
- MOLLE Webbing/Modularity – MOLLE panels or other modular components allow you to customize the interior and attach accessory pouches for magazines, tools, etc. This keeps things organized.
- Drainage – If you play outdoor airsoft, look for drainage grommets or ports that allow water to escape if the case gets wet. Prevent mold and mildew.
- Lockable Zippers/Latches – Secure zipper pulls and TSA-approved latches allow you to lock the case to keep your airsoft guns safe and prevent unauthorized access.
- Carrying Options – Make sure the case has multiple padded carry handles and backpack straps for easy transport. Wheels are also useful for larger cases.
- Tough Exterior – Durability is key – choose a case made from abrasion-resistant nylon, polyester, canvas, or ballistic fabrics. Hard cases should have strong composite materials.
- Storage Pockets – Interior and exterior storage pockets help organize smaller items like batteries, tools, and supplies.
- Customizability – Look for ways to customize the interior with padded dividers, foam, or Pick N’ Pluck cubes. This secures guns and gear.
Keep these useful features in mind when picking your ideal airsoft gun case for maximum protection, organization, and convenience when transporting your gear to the field.
Consider Your Budget
One of the most important factors when shopping for an airsoft gun case is setting a reasonable budget. Airsoft cases range widely in price from affordable entry-level models to high-end customizable cases.
Consider how much you are willing to spend on a case based on your needs and usage:
- Casual or occasional players can opt for more basic soft cases under $50. These provide decent protection and transport options without a huge investment.
- Enthusiasts who play frequently may want to spend $50-$150 on a higher-quality soft case with more padding, pockets, and features.
- Serious players with expensive gear can justify spending $150-$300+ on a customizable hard case for maximum protection.
Here are some other tips for budgeting for your airsoft gun case:
- Weigh the cost against how much your gear is worth. A $200 case to protect $500 worth of guns is likely worth it.
- Prioritize key features you need rather than unnecessary bells and whistles outside your budget.
- Consider whether you’ll use a case heavily and need something durable or just occasionally where you can save on cost.
- Set price range filters when searching online so you only see cases in your budget.
- Look for sales and promotions when available to get the best case for the price.
With some consideration of your needs and research, you can find a high-quality airsoft gun case that protects your gear without breaking the bank. Determine what price fits both your budget and your desire for features.
What Size Bag/Case Should I Get for My Airsoft Guns?
Choosing the right size airsoft gun case is crucial. You want a bag or case that will fit all of your gear comfortably, while still being easy to transport and store. Here are some tips on determining the best size:
- Take measurements of your largest airsoft gun. Add at least 2-3 inches to the length and width to allow for foam padding in a hard case. This gives the minimum internal dimensions you’ll need.
- Count the number of airsoft guns you need to fit. Measure any oversized accessories as well. Allow room for several main guns, a pistol, and accessories.
- Consider if you’ll be expanding your collection later. Get a slightly bigger bag to allow room for future additions. It’s better than having to replace a too-small case right away.
- Hard cases come in standard sizes like 36″, 42″, and 50″ lengths. Choose the smallest standard size that your gear will fit into with room to spare. Don’t overload a case as it will be difficult to close and carry.
- For soft bags, add up the total cubic inches or liters needed for all your equipment. Look for bags 30% larger than this amount for comfortable capacity.
- Try out packing your gear into an empty bag at the store. This will give you a sense of what size is ideal before purchasing.
Taking careful measurements and planning for future additions will ensure you get an airsoft gun case with plenty of room. A bag that is too small will damage your equipment and be a hassle to use.
Should I Get a Hard or Soft Case/Bag for my Airsoft Gun?
When choosing a protective case for your airsoft gear, two main options exist – hard cases and soft bags. There are pros and cons to each regarding protection, portability, access, and convenience.
Hard airsoft cases provide maximum protection for your guns and gear:
- Sturdy external plastic or composite shell protects against impacts
- Watertight and airtight models are available
- Can be locked for security
- The foam interior is customizable to hold items securely
However, hard cases also have some drawbacks:
- Heavier than soft bags, not as easy to transport
- More expensive than soft bags
- Less flexible – guns must be placed/removed from designated foam cutouts
Soft airsoft bags offer more flexibility and portability:
- The exterior is made of lightweight durable fabrics like nylon or polyester
- Interior has padded dividers to protect gear
- Multiple zippered openings allow quick access to contents
- MOLLE webbing allows you to add accessory pouches
- Not watertight or lockable like hard cases
- Less protection against crushing blows or drops
Hard cases are ideal for air travel or secure storage, while soft bags work better for frequent field transport. Many airsoft players use both – a hard case for protection when needed, and a soft bag for regular gear hauling. Assess your specific carrying and protection needs when deciding between these two case styles.
Do I Need a Special Bag/Case to Travel With My Airsoft Guns and Gear?
If you plan to travel by air or any other public transit with your airsoft equipment, having a proper carrying case is highly recommended. Here’s why a special airsoft gun case is advisable for travel:
- Airline Regulations – Most airlines require firearms to be in locked, hard-sided cases that are TSA-approved for flying. Airsoft guns fall under these firearm policies so a suitable case is required. Soft bags alone won’t suffice.
- Identification – Having an airsoft-specific bag identifies your replica guns and prevents any confusion with real firearms during airport screening.
- Security – A lockable, hard-sided case prevents unauthorized access to your airsoft guns and gear when checking them for flights. Soft bags are too easy to break into.
- Protection – Air travel exposes your equipment to more shock, impact, and rough handling. A protective case preserves your investment in gear.
- Organization – Foam cutouts and dividers keep your airsoft items neatly organized and less prone to damage.
While a basic gun case could technically suffice, a bag designed specifically for airsoft gear with carved foam, internal pockets, durable exterior, etc, is ideal for smooth travels. Investing in a solid hard-sided, lockable case provides essential security and protection for your airsoft equipment when traveling by air.
Conclusion
Investing in a high-quality protective case is one of the most important purchases you can make to keep your airsoft gear safe. There are many types and options to consider when selecting the right airsoft gun bag or case. Hard cases provide maximum protection and are great for air travel, while soft bags offer more portability and ease of access for frequent use.
Think about your specific needs in terms of protection level, carrying convenience, storage, and budget. Look for useful features like interior padding and dividers, MOLLE webbing, drainage ports, and lockable zippers or latches to secure your guns. A case designed specifically for airsoft gear will offer the best fit, protection, and features compared to a standard multipurpose gun case.
Taking the time to find the ideal bag or case is worth the investment to safely transport several hundred dollars worth of airsoft equipment. Protect your guns from damage, keep gear organized, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes from a secure case purpose-built for your hobby. With your new airsoft gun case in hand, you’ll be prepared to head out to the field and start playing the sport you love.
