Top 7 Best Hard Pistol Cases Of 2022 (Reviews And Guide)

Hard pistol cases are a preference for some, but they can be a necessity in certain situations. For example, you may start shopping for the best hard pistol case once you realize you need to take your gun on a flight.

Before we get to our reviews of the top 7 hard pistol cases on the market today, we’re going to provide a buying guide so you can identify the best case for your needs.

Then you can identify the right hard pistol case for your application, whether you want to take one handgun while camping or three out to the range.

What Is A Hard Pistol Case?

Hard pistol cases are by definition hard. They may be plastic, metal or something else, but they will be crush resistant. Most hard pistol cases have shock-absorbing foam to protect the gun and its finish.

Hard pistol cases vary in size. Some will hold a small pistol, while others will let you transport five or more guns.

How To Choose The Perfect Hard Pistol Case?

Millions of children are raised in homes where guns are present, many of which are kept unsecured, loaded, or both. Every year, unintentional shootings kill nearly 1300 children and injure hundreds more. Most of these victims are boys shot by their family or friends, who found a gun lying around.

You must ensure that your firearm is always secure. It must be safeguarded against weather events and wrong hands. But it should be nearby for quick access in an emergency. Pistol cases provide dependable protection for your gun while in transit or at home.

There are four types of gun cases: soft, hard, multi-gun, and covert. Choosing the best gun case for your gun type is an important but difficult task. Here is our guide to selecting the best hard pistol cases

01. Size

The right case size for your guns is determined by the size and number of guns you have. Is it a monster .357 Magnum or a small compact? If it doesn't fit nicely inside the hard case, it may be damaged during transportation.

For gun collectors, the best cases have expandable foam inserts for multiple different pistols.

02. Hand orientation

Depending on your dominant hand, you have the choice between a left-handed carrier and a right-handed carrier; after all, you want the convenience of a quick draw in case of an emergency.

Usually, right-handed people get right-handed carriers and vice versa. Alternatively, you can go for modular designs that permit both right and left-handed use.

03. Material

Modern gun cases are either made of plastic or aircraft aluminum and feature thick, closed-cell foam on the inside to protect your gun from scratches. Aircraft aluminum is incredibly strong yet light.

However, it makes pricier cases. On the other hand, plastic and plastic composite cases are in the affordable price range.

04. Style

Gun cases are available in various styles and with different carry solutions. You can go for the covert or tactical look and choose between beefy backpack-style straps, standard luggage-style carry handles, and tough wheels that allow you to roll the bag over hard surfaces.

If you don't want to advertise that you're parking, the covert style cases are ideal because showing that you're carrying can attract unwanted looks, comments, or even the police.

You can also select cases with molle attachment webbing, allowing you to accessorize as much as you want.

05. Closure Type

Hard cases can have latches or sliding locks. Latches are common and come in various designs. A full plastic case may have a bump that you press to close, but it will latch open if the case is bumped the wrong way during transportation.

An alternative type of latch consists of a metal hoop that fits over the contour of the case, and a lever is used to pull it tight to secure it. Compared to plastic latches, these are more secure, but they might be too much for a single gun case.

Additionally, sliding latches are occasionally found but are less common. Most cases also have a hole where a padlock or gun lock can be attached to enhance security and meet TSA requirements.

06. Color

Color choice is often a matter of personal taste, but consider where you live and transport the bag before buying. For example, a green case may not work in an urban setting, but it's excellent in the countryside.

Paying attention to the changing seasons is also a wise idea. Black bags with tan interiors are more popular because they are easy to see inside.

07. Brand

When it comes to brand, it depends on the quality of materials they use, their workmanship, customer support, and the price they charge for all these. Some of the best hard pistol case brands, factoring in value for money, include

• Pelican,
• Eberlestock,
• Plano, and
• Browning. 

Feel free to check out their merchandise.

08. Others

When it comes to gun ownership, it's not just a matter of having it close by for protection; it needs to be secured from wrong hands and harsh weather elements.

Responsible gun ownership and transportation ensure your safety and that of people around you. Use the above-mentioned tips to select the proper case for your gun type.

Our Top 7 Best Hard Pistol Cases Review

01. Pelican Model 1200 Black Case 

Why It Stands Out to Us

This case is 10.6 inches by 4.9 inches by 9.7 inches. It weighs roughly 1.3 kilos or 2.9 pounds when empty. We’re recommending the black case, though it is available in colors like tan, yellow, red and grey.

Our Experience with It

The interior dimensions of this case are 9.25 inches by 7.125 inches by 4.125 inches. The interior dimensions determine the largest possible gun a case can hold.

This model is unusual for having pick and place foam, so you can swap out foam interiors. That allows you to put in the foam that cradles the gun closely. 

On the other hand, that means you may only be able to hold a gun up to 8 inches by 7 inches by 3 inches. The o-ring and tight fitting plastic grooves create a water-tight seal. 

It goes one step further by having an air pressure equalization valve. If it goes underwater, it will release extra pressure to avoid collapsing on the gun. 

Yet it is unlikely to go underwater. It will remain buoyant if the filled case weighs less than 12 pounds or 5.5 kilograms. This is the best waterproof hard case for pistol owners, hands down.

What We Didn't Like

Sometimes the latches don’t line up because of issues with the hinges. If this occurs, you don’t have either a water-proof seal or a theft-proof case.

We mentioned the customizable foam inserts. It can be hard to get replacement or alternate foam inserts. That’s especially problematic if they ship the unit without foam inserts by mistake.

HIGHLIGHTED FEATURES

• Tongue and groove fit and polymer o-ring that keeps the case completely watertight
• Automatic pressure equalization valve which releases built-up air pressure while preventing the entry of water
• Pick N' Pluck foam that allows you to customize the pistol case interior
• Comes with padded dividers
• Stainless steel reinforced padlock protectors for extra security
• Crushproof copolymer-polypropylene shell

Pros

• Protects guns from the water every which way
• Customizable interior

Cons

• Hinge problems
• Hard to find replacement foam inserts

02. DS3TeK Handgun Case with Dual-Lock 

Why It Stands Out to Us

This is the best hard pistol case for airline travel on our list. That is because this hard gun pistol case is compliant with standards set by the TSA. 

And there are features that make it a contender for the title of best hard multi pistol gun case, though it won’t hold more than one gun.

Our Experience with It

This is a rugged, military-grade case. It will survive normal use and heavy abuse. At 12 inches by 8 inches by 3.5 inches (exterior dimensions) it has room for large revolvers. It can hold guns under six inches.

This means it can hold most SIGS, Springfield XDs, UPS, smaller Rugers, Glocks, 1911s, and all pistols. It comes with several interchangeable foam pieces so you can use the insert that fits your gun relatively snuggly.

Do you have to meet advanced security standards because of strict gun laws in your city? Do you simply need to get your guns through security in a secure case?

The DS3TeK fits the bill. Furthermore, their cases are stackable and interlocking. That makes it possible to carry several cases together.

It is water-resistant but not water-proof. It is made to float in the water if you drop it in the lake, but that won’t prevent water from seeping in, since there is no o-ring to prevent this.

Instead, the seal just keeps out dust. It does have excellent impact protection.

What We Didn't Like

The hinges and hinge rods are plastic. This is a weak point for the pistol case. While that makes it barely TSA compliant, this will eventually damage the foam. And it isn’t easy to get replacement foam.

We mention that it is TSA compliant, because it is not TSA approved, though it is advertised as such. That means you may still have to go through security and verify the locking mechanisms.

HIGHLIGHTED FEATURES

• Made of carbon fiber reinforced DS3Tek polypropylene that is guaranteed strong and long-lasting
• Crush resistant keeping your gun safe from any form of impact
• Double latch system with 2 locking lugs for extra security
• Compatible with chains, paddle, or combination locks
• Comes with a total of 4 foam pieces
• Water-resistant and splash-proof polymer hard case

Pros

• TSA compliant
• Stackable
• Impact resistance
• UV-proof
• Dust-proof
• Floats in water
• Lightweight

Cons

• Not really water-proof
• Weak hinges

03. MTM Two Pistol Handgun Case

Why It Stands Out to Us

This handgun case is made to hold up to two revolvers or handguns. It can hold two guns with barrels up to eight inches. 

You could also hold a single handgun and several magazines inside of it. This might be the best hard multi pistol gun case for those on a budget, give its low cost.

Our Experience with It

The external dimensions of the case are 15.5 inches by 12.2 inches by 3.6 inches. The interior dimensions are 14 inches by 10 inches by 3 inches. It will hold Colts and 9 mm handguns without any problem, including one of each at the same time.

A Ruger Single Six will barely fit. It has thick, flexible foam that will hold a wide variety of guns and do so in almost any position. 

And it is almost as good as a case with custom-made foam to fit the gun’s outlines. The foam has a mild chemical smell, but that isn’t a big deal in the scheme of things.

It has padlock holes on it, though there is no lock on it. You have to supply the lock. However, that’s not unique to this case.

What We Didn't Like

It has a somewhat thin plastic shell. The locking loops are near the center. This means that it could be pried open or outright broken into.

HIGHLIGHTED FEATURES

• Easy to open snap latches
• Suitable for two automatics or 2 revolvers with barrels up to 8 inches
• Made with rugged polypropylene with a textured finish
• Thick foam padding to keep your valuables free from damages due to impacts
• Includes two padlock tabs for security
• Large ergonomic handle for easy transport
• Extra space for a trigger lock

Pros

• Can hold two pistols or handguns
• Can hold a wide variety of pistols and handguns

Cons

• Not durable

04. MTM Single Handgun Case 

Why It Stands Out to Us

The third review on our list is for a multi-gun case. This is a single handgun case by the same manufacturer, MTM. Its outside dimensions are 13.1 inches by 9.7 inches by 3.2 inches.

The inside dimensions are 12.5 inches by 8.1 inches by 3 inches. This is large enough for most automatics and scoped rivals with barrels of up to 6 inches. 

That may give you room for an extra magazine or two, depending on the size of the gun. For smaller guns, you may be able to fit in two magazines and a speed loader.

Our Experience with It

This is a budget handgun case. It is good enough to let you legally transport a single six inch revolver from point A to point B.

It has double padlock tabs, and that’s enough to make it legal for transporting guns that must be locked in a case while the gun is in your car or bag. It is not TSA compliant.

The case had a decent carrying handle. It is lightweight. The egg-shell foam will hold almost any gun relatively securely in place.

What We Didn't Like

When we say it is a basic hard pistol case, we mean it. It is made from thin plastic. It isn’t going to keep the gun dry if dropped in a puddle.

It isn’t even impact resistant per se, beyond the protection offered by the padding and case around the gun. It will prevent a child from accessing the gun, but criminals can break open the purely plastic hinge in a few minutes.

HIGHLIGHTED FEATURES

• Suitable for automatics and scoped revolvers with barrels up to 6 inches
• Features a reliable snap latch
• Large comfortable handle for easy carrying
• Made with rugged polypropylene with a handsome textured finish
• Scratch-resistant keeping your case new looking
• Thick foam padding to protect your valuables
• Double padlock tabs for better safekeeping

Pros

• Affordable
• Often has room for accessories in addition to a small gun

Cons

• Very basic protection for the gun
• Not TSA compliant

05. Eylar Brand Tactical Hard Gun Case

Why It Stands Out to Us

This Eylar brand tactical hard gun case has exterior dimensions of 11.6 inches by 8.3 inches by 3.8 inches. It is available in almost a dozen colors, but we’re recommending the classic grey case. It is made for just one gun.

Our Experience with It

It is water-proof! It has a thick rubber gasket that will prevent water from getting into the case if it is submerged in up to a meter (3 feet) of water.

It goes one step farther than a water-tight o-ring due to its pressure equalization valve. It won’t get crushed by water pressure if it is in deeper water, and it is less likely to be damaged by major pressure changes.

This Eylar brand hard gun case is TSA approved. It has two padlock adaptable fittings to secure the gun. You can use any TSA approved travel luggage locks, though you’ll have to buy those separately.

The case weighs two and a half pounds empty. That is a little heavier than average, but it reflects how durable the case is.

The case looks crush-proof and is crush-proof. You won’t hurt it if you accidentally or intentionally sit on it.

What We Didn't Like

The problem with the lattice design and off-balance center of mass is that it is prone to falling over. If you open it, it won’t sit upright then, either.

The foam padding is in the form of pre-cut squares. This often allows the guns inside to slide around. Egg-shell foam does a better job of keeping the guns securely in place.

HIGHLIGHTED FEATURES

• Features a pressure equalization valve that allows captured air pressure to equalize when traveling at different altitudes
• Comes with 2 customizable pull and pluck foam padding, 1 bottom pad layer, and 1 top egg crate layer
• Features four different colors

Pros

• TSA approved
• Water-proof
• Crush-proof
• Lockable fittings
• IP67 Waterproof
• Dustproof
• Shockproof
• Crushproof

Cons

• Doesn’t stay open or upright
• Issues with the foam

06. Plano Brand All Weather Pistol Case

Why It Stands Out to Us

This pistol case has exterior dimensions of 19.75 inches by 14.5 inches by 9 inches. It has interior dimensions of 17 inches by 12 inches by 7.25 inches.

It is a large, high-capacity pistol case. It has a large, removable foam piece, and you can add additional foam pieces. 

This is the best 4 pistol hard case on our list, since it has room for four pistols and can protect all of them. Or you can use it to hold larger guns like a Desert Eagle 50AE or CZ Scorpion along with accessories.

Our Experience with It

This “all weather” case is made to survive the elements. It is water tight and air tight. It will protect your guns from moisture if sitting in the garage and from water if it is dropped in a puddle.

It has dual-stage lockable latches. That will slow down potential thieves. The rugged case isn’t going to be easily broken into, either.

The gun case has keyed locks on the front two latches. You can add additional locks in the available loops, too. This case is made in the United States.

What We Didn't Like

There are customers who bought it for the locks and received it without the keys. A few reported that they received the case without the foam inserts. A more serious issue is that the foam doesn’t necessarily hold the guns in place.

Even if the foam has cut-outs, it isn’t tightly fitted to the edges of the case. This means it may move around as well as the guns themselves sliding around in the case. That can damage your gun’s finish.

The case will not stay open on its own. This is a minor issue but can be an inconvenience if you’re assembling or displaying the guns.

HIGHLIGHTED FEATURES

• All-weather pistol case
• Features an upgraded look and better functionality
• Watertight that prevents entry of water and buildup of moisture
• Dust-proof to keep away dust from your optics and essential gun items
• Heavy duty with rugged industrial-strength construction
• Dual-stage lockable batches
• Built-in pressure release valve that releases air during air travel

Pros

• Large capacity
• Secure
• All-weather

Cons

• May ship without essential parts
• Guns are not held securely in one place inside the case

07. Casematix Brand Hard Gun Case for Pistols

Why It Stands Out to Us

The interior dimensions of this gun case are 9 inches by 5 inches by 2.75 inches.

Our Experience with It

It is large enough for pistols and compact 9 mm guns. It is designed to securely hold the gun in place along with one large accessory. That could be a scope or a magazine. The shock-absorbing foam will protect the guns if you drop it, too.

It is water-proof, and the seal will keep out the moisture in the ambient air, too. It is shock-proof. It is crush-proof. That’s a major point in its favor if your goal is to protect the guns both in storage and when traveling.

It is lightweight given how durable it is. The handles are ergonomic, so it is easy to carry. Furthermore, the handle folds against the top of the case like a briefcase handle, so it is as small as possible when you’re transporting it.

What We Didn't Like

It has padlock rings but no padlocks. That’s not a strike against this product, since so few hard pistol cases come with padlocks.

It is a compact case, but the interior foam design means it can be a tight fit for getting certain guns inside of the foam cutout, too. For example, it may be a tight fit for a Remington RP45.

HIGHLIGHTED FEATURES

• Waterproof and moisture-proof
• Made with impact-resistant and crushproof polymer composite plastic
• Features molded padlock rings
• Comes with three protective dense foam layers
• Folding carry handle to allow convenient transport
• Airtight seal to protect your valuable items
• Completely customizable layer of pre-diced foam
• Pressure release valve allows for the release of air when traveling in various altitudes
• Easy-open latches

Pros

• Water-proof
•  Crush-proof
• Shock-proof
•  Easy to carry

Cons

•  Can be a tight fit for the guns it is supposed to carry

FAQs Regarding The Hard Pistol Cases

Q. Does the case cradles and shelters the gun?

Do you want a gun case that cradles and shelters the gun? Then you may want one with a carved out area that holds the gun, though this is only an option if it fits the gun’s contours.

In other cases, the gun case will mold itself around the gun. This may not be as secure as the previously mentioned design, but it will fit any gun. And it may let you store ammo or accessories as well as the gun in the case.

Hunters and shooters may want to get cases that offer supreme weather resistance as well as impact resistance. Don’t assume that a case will protect the gun from a puddle; verify that the gun case is water-proof before you take it out into the field.

Final Verdict

The best hard pistol case will be designed to work for your intended application, whether you’re taking four pistols to the range for the team to practice with or an FAA compliant gun case for getting your pistol past the TSA and onto the plane.

Use our buying guide and product reviews to find the best one for you.