Above Product FS9 Soft Rifle Case - See More Here

There are a lot of factors to consider when purchasing an AR-15 soft case. You want to make sure you get the best possible length for the money, while still getting a case that will protect your gun. In this blog post, we will explore what length of soft case you need for an AR-15 and how to choose the right one for you. We'll also give you a few tips on what to look for in a good quality case.

What is an AR-15?

An AR-15 is a semi-automatic rifle that is typically used by military personnel and law enforcement officers. It is also a popular choice for civilians who are interested in home defense or target shooting. The AR-15 has a detachable magazine that can hold 30 rounds of ammunition. It is also equipped with a carrying handle and a rear sight.

What is the difference between an AR-15 and an AK-47?

An AR-15 is a sporting rifle that is popular for its lightweight design and accuracy. An AK-47 on the other hand is a military grade assault rifle that is known for its durability and reliability.

Why would you need a soft case for an AR-15?

There are a few reasons why you might want to consider getting a soft case for your AR-15. For one, it can help protect your gun from the elements. If you're planning on taking your AR-15 out in the field or to the range, a soft case can help keep it clean and dry.

Another reason to get a soft case is for transport. If you need to take your AR-15 with you on a plane or in a car, a soft case can make it easier to pack and keep everything organized. And finally, if you ever need to sell or trade your AR-15, a soft case can help it retain its value.

With that in mind, use this guide to take a look at the most important elements of your case. Most people will start with the soft case or a hard case debate, but we are going to take a different approach and address that dead last.

Weight

Let’s start with one of the heaviest considerations literally and figuratively. How important is the weight of the rifle case to you? Are you planning to haul it across rugged terrain, or just from the car to the range?

If you're simply transporting your rifle between home and the shooting range, weight likely won’t be your top concern. But if you’re carrying it over long distances or through challenging environments, every ounce matters.

Soft rifle cases are a great option for keeping the overall weight down. They’re lighter, easier to carry especially in backpack-style and ideal for mobility.

However, the trade-off is the lack of a rigid outer shell. While a quality soft case still offers substantial padding, it won’t protect your firearm the same way a hard case can when it comes to heavy impacts or rough handling.

Size

Next up: size the not-so-small issue.

You’ll need to factor in the full dimensions of your rifle, including any attachments or accessories. Only then should you start exploring case lengths.

For AR-15 rifles, the most common sizes are 36″ and 42″, as they accommodate the majority of barrel configurations.

Make sure the case isn’t too tight or too loose. Both can cause problems when storing and transporting your rifle safely and efficiently.

Materials

Let’s talk about materials, because not all fabrics are created equal.

Exterior:

Hard rifle cases are usually made from injection-molded plastic, offering extreme durability and the ability to withstand significant pressure, sometimes hundreds of pounds. Knowing what your hard case is made from helps you understand how well it will protect your firearm.

High-end soft cases are typically constructed from high-denier nylon, especially 500D or 1000D Cordura. These materials are known for their durability and tear resistance. While you might see other numbers floating around (600D, 650D, 1050D, etc.), true Cordura fabric, especially the U.S.-made variety is a mark of quality.

Stick to 500D or 1000D Cordura for the best mix of strength, weight, and long-term reliability.

Interior:

Interior design matters just as much.

Look for a case with solid retention features. Most soft cases come with internal straps either sewn in or removable that help keep your rifle from shifting. Many also include buttstock and muzzle slots, which offer a quick and easy way to secure your firearm without adjusting straps.

And don’t overlook the foam. Whether soft or hard, foam is a crucial component in protecting your rifle.

For optimal protection, go with high-density polyethylene foam. It offers superior stiffness and shock absorption compared to lower-quality materials.

AR-15 Configuration Guide: What Size Case Do You Need?

Here's a quick breakdown of common AR-15 setups and which soft case lengths suit them best:

If you're running optics, bipods, or extended grips, it's often best to size up to a 42" case for a safer fit and easier transport.

Read More: Hard vs Soft Rifle Cases | Complete Rifle Case Buyer's Guide

What are the benefits of a soft case over a hard case?

When it comes to protecting your AR-15, there are a few different route you can go. You can either choose a hard case or a soft case. Both have their pros and cons, but ultimately it comes down to personal preference. Here we will outline the benefits of a soft case over a hard case so you can make the best decision for you and your gun.

One of the main benefits of a soft case is that they are typically lighter than hard cases. This can be extremely beneficial if you plan on traveling with your gun, as it will make it easier to carry. They are also typically more affordable than hard cases, which is another plus.

Another great benefit of soft cases is that they offer more flexibility in terms of storage. You can easily stuff them into tight spaces, whereas hard cases can be more difficult to store. Additionally, many soft cases come with extra pockets and compartments that you can use to store other items such as ammunition or cleaning supplies.

Soft cases also tend to provide better protection for your AR-15 than hard cases. This is because they conform to the shape of the gun, providing a snug fit that prevents movement. Hard cases, on the other hand, often have plenty of empty space inside which allows the gun to move around during transport and increases the risk of damage.

So, if you're looking for a light-weight, affordable option that offers more flexibility in terms of storage and provides

What are the different types of soft cases available?

There are several different types of soft cases available on the market today. The most popular type is the tactical soft case, which is designed to protect your AR-15 during transport and storage. As seen below, the FS9 Elite Ranger Soft Rifle case is very convenient as you can carry it hands-free like a backpack. These cases typically feature a padded interior, multiple compartments for magazine storage, and an external Molle system for attaching additional gear.

Other popular types of soft cases include gun range bags and shooting mats. Range bags are designed to keep all of your shooting gear organized and protected, while shooting mats provide a comfortable surface to shoot from and can also help protect your gun from the elements.

Key Features to Look for in a Soft Case

Padding & Protection: Look for high-density foam or multi-layer padding. The more padding, the better your rifle is protected against bumps and drops.

Retention Systems: Good soft cases include adjustable interior straps, muzzle sleeves, or buttstock slots to hold your rifle securely in place.

Material Quality: Ideally, your case should be made from 500D or 1000D Cordura or other durable, weather-resistant nylon. These materials offer better abrasion resistance and hold up to field conditions.

Storage Options: Extra pockets, MOLLE webbing, and magazine pouches make a case more versatile for carrying range gear.

Zippers and Handles: Lockable zippers, reinforced stitching, and padded carry handles or backpack-style straps all improve usability and longevity.

How to choose the right size soft case for your AR-15

When it comes to choosing the right size soft case for your AR-15, there are a few things you need to take into account. First, you need to measure the length of your rifle. This can be done by extending the buttstock and measuring from the tip of the muzzle to the base of the buttstock. Next, you need to decide what type of accessories you will be carrying with your rifle. If you plan on carrying a lot of extras, then you will need a larger case. Finally, consider how much protection you need for your AR-15. If you are just looking for basic protection, then a smaller case will suffice. However, if you want maximum protection, then you should opt for a larger case.

Conclusion

With so many different AR-15s on the market and so many different ways to configure them, it can be tough to know what size soft case you need to protect your investment. We hope this article has given you a better idea of the different factors to consider when choosing a soft case for your AR-15. Remember, the most important thing is to make sure your AR-15 is properly protected from the elements and potential damage. With a little bit of research and careful consideration, you should be able to find the perfect soft case for your needs.