A rifle that moves inside its case is going to get damaged. Even though we don’t manufacture hard cases, a soft case that is perfectly molded to your specific rifle is going to offer more protection and better longevity for your rifle than a hard case that isn’t molded and allows your rifle to move around. All it takes is for a scope turret to knock against a zip, or a bolt handle marking stocks, and your rifle arrives at the range having been worked loose. Getting the size and shape right is 90% of the job.
How to properly size your rifle case
Measure your rifle muzzle to buttpad with the stock set where you shoot it, then add two inches. That will cover the padding at each end, and gives you room to get the rifle in without forcing it. If you shoot an adjustable stock, measure at its longest setting. The goal is for the rifle to fit snug and not shift about in transit - not for it to be wedged into the case, which can also cause damage.
We stock 41 inch cases for AR-15 and M16 pattern rifles, 48 and 52 inch cases for most bolt actions, and 55 and 60 inch cases for long barrelled and ELR rifles. A bipod, a suppressor or a large objective scope all add to the height as well as the length, which is where a scoped case is better - it’s cut deeper through the action so the optic isn’t pressed against the shell.
Cases for specific rifles
Most rifle cases are rectangles. Our specific rifle cases are tailored to the size of each rifle. The M1 Garand and M1A case, the 1903-A4 case, the Mosin Nagant case and the Enfield Mark III case are each cut to that rifle’s specific outline, so the stock sits in the case rather than sliding around inside it. For service rifle and vintage match competitors, and for anyone carrying a rifle that is not easily replaced, the specific cut of the case is invaluable - because it makes the case easier to live with - a rifle that drops into its own shape goes in and out without any effort and won’t move about during transit.
AR-15 upper and lower carry cases
We make separate upper and lower carry cases for the AR-15. They suit anyone travelling with a rifle in two parts, and anyone running more than one upper who wants each of them protected and identifiable in the range cart.
Soft cases
Everything we make is soft, and for range and match use that is what most shooters want. A soft case weighs a fraction of a hard case, folds away when it is empty, and doesn’t rattle around in a truck bed. On the firing line it lies flat and gives you something to work off.
Our shells are heavy nylon with padded lining throughout, full length zips and carry handles, and the longer cases take a shoulder strap.
It’s worth mentioning - we don’t recommend soft cases if you’re planning to check your rifle in as airline baggage. For that you need a hard case to protect it from physical knocks and scrapes with other baggage - and we do not stock hard cases. Soft cases are for transit in your car to and from the range.
Creedmoor Sports Custom Shop
Some of our cases can be personalized through the Custom Shop with embroidery. Clubs and teams can use it for matching cases, and individual shooters use it for a name, a discipline or a match. Get in touch with us to discuss customization and we’d be happy to walk you through all the options available to you.
Frequently asked questions
How long should a rifle case be?
Measure the rifle muzzle to buttpad and add two inches. A 41 inch case suits AR-15 pattern rifles, 48 to 52 inches covers most bolt actions, and 55 to 60 inches is for long barrelled and ELR rifles.
What is a gun case called?
Soft cases are usually called rifle cases, gun bags or slips. Rigid ones are hard cases. A drag bag is a long soft case designed to be pulled across the ground while crawling.
Is a soft case enough to protect a rifle?
For range, match and vehicle use, yes, provided the rifle fits properly and the padding is not compressed. Soft cases are not recommended to be checked as airline hold baggage.
Will a scoped rifle fit a standard case?
Often, but not comfortably. A scoped case is cut deeper through the action so the turrets and objective are not pressed against the shell, which is worth having if you leave the optic mounted.
Do you make a case for the M1 Garand?
Yes, in both standard and waxed canvas, cut to the profile of the Garand and M1A. We also make cases for the 1903-A4, Mosin Nagant and Enfield Mark III.
Can you store a rifle in a soft case?
For short periods, yes. For long term storage, take the rifle out or use a corrosion inhibiting bag, because any closed case can hold moisture against the metal.
