The best range bag is specifically designed to carry all of your firearms, magazines and other range essentials. This can include all of your tactical gear from shooting gloves and firearms to a first aid kit and holsters. If you frequently visit the range, then a top-of-the-line range bag is a must.
Unfortunately, on your journey to find the best range bag, you’re going to come across plenty of knockoffs, bags that won’t last more than a season or two.
I’ve put together this comprehensive buying guide to help you choose a model that works for you and all your gear, to make it easier for you to find a bag that has the features you need. I’ve also tested out each of the models that made it onto my top eight list, paying close attention to materials, design, and extra features.
Below, you’ll find a comparison chart that includes each bag, how it rated, and important features that make these bags really stand out.
Range Bag Comparison Chart
| Product | Material | Size | Colors | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Orca Tactical Gun Range Bag   Shop On Amazon! |
600D Polyester | 16" x 11" x 9" | 4 | |
| 5.11 Tactical Rush Lima Bag   Shop On Amazon! |
Nylon | 11 X 17 X 4 | 4 | |
| Explorer Range Bag   Shop On Amazon! |
Nylon | 16″ x 9″ x 11″ | 7 | |
| Rebow Tactical Deluxe Range Bag Shop On Amazon! |
Nylon | 11"x17"x4" | 4 | |
| OSAGE RIVER Tactical Range Bag   Shop On Amazon! |
Nylon | 16" x 8" x 7" | 5 | |
| Nc Star Competition Range Bag   Shop On Amazon! |
Nylon | 13 X 20 X 10 | 2 | |
| US Peacekeeper Mini Range Bag   Shop On Amazon! |
600D Polyester | 12.75" x 8.75" x 3" | 4 | |
| GunMate 1919687 Range Bag   Shop On Amazon! |
Nylon | 16" x 8" x 7" | 1 |
Best Overall-Orca Tactical Gun Range Bag
Our Rating:
This Orca tactical bag earned the best overall spot on my list because it’s perfect for the serious shooter who has to bring along a ton of gear to the range. If you need massive storage space, then you’ll appreciate this bag’s elite carrier system. The bag boasts a firearm capacity of three handguns, with extra space for all of your important gear and accessories. The bag itself is made out of 600 denier polyester. The bag features reinforced stitching at every high stress area. In terms of security, this model comes equipped with heavy-duty lockable YKK zippers, complete with nylon pulls that are tough and rust resistant. To protect against moisture and water damage, the range bag has a special coating that makes it both scratch proof and water resistant.
Pros
- Pistol pouches
- Water resistant
- Heavy duty zippers
- Plenty of storage
- Made out of 600 denier polyester
Cons
- Zipper locks sold separately
Conclusion
This bag is designed with security and safety in mind. It comes equipped with side pouches with lockable zippers, wide grip handles, several pistol pouches, removable dividers, and just about any other extra feature you can think of. This bag makes it easy to organize and store all of your essential gear for the range and features the kind of durability and storage space that all shooters are looking for.
Best Organization Options-5.11 Tactical Rush Delivery Lima Bag
Our Rating:
This 5.11 tactical range bag features a messenger bag design that’s able to handle a variety of conditions, including wet climates, thanks to its water-resistant coating. The admin panel will keep your gear highly organized for daily gear and accessories, including documents or a laptop up to 15”. The range bag’s multi-layered organization also makes this bag perfect for bug out bag use. The zippered mesh compartments and multiple slip compartments can be used to store your other tactical gear and personal items. The range bag also comes with a removable padded shoulder strap, complete with a cross-body that features a non-slip design for easier carry and handling. The expanding side pockets and the rear concealed TacTec compartment can hold extra gear and water bottles. This model is made out of 1050D nylon material and includes a padded laptop sleeve, a rapid draw compartment that allows you to quickly access your firearm, and a large main storage area that provides ample space for ammo, personal items, and more. On the back of the bag you’ll find a wrap-around slickstick and MOLLE compatible platform, for additional storage.
Pros
- MOLLE webbing
- Heavy duty zippers
- Plenty of pockets
- Large main compartment
- Adjustable shoulder strap
- Water resistant coating
Cons
- Thin material
Conclusion
This 5.11 tactical range bag is also designed for daily use, includes a concealed carry compartment, a laptop sleeve, and all the storage compartments you need to organize and store your firearm’s accessories and your survival gear. This versatile bag can be used as a dedicated range bag, bug out bag, or a general-purpose bag.
Best Pistol Range Bag-Explorer Tactical Range Ready Bag
Our Rating:
This Explorer tactical range ready bag offers massive storage space with 13 compartments that are heavily padded. The Explorer range bag design also includes several gear loops that are located in both the outer and main compartments. In the main compartment, you’ll also find a couple of dedicated pistol pouches. This range bag comes heavily padded, ensuring that all of your gear is well-protected. Additionally, the bag also features several loops, pockets, and compartments, so you can keep your firearms, ammo, and accessories neatly organized. Made out of heavy duty ballistic nylon and equipped with dual zipper exterior pockets located on the front, the Explorer range bag comes with elastic loops that you can use to attach all types of accessories.
The Explorer range bag has a two handgun capacity and plenty of storage space for essential gear.
Pros
- Detachable shoulder strap
- 2 pistol storage
- Large main storage compartment
- Two pistol pouches
- Water resistant coating
Cons
- Low-quality elastic loops
Conclusion
This Explorer range bag is just the right size. It’s big enough to hold all of your essential range items, and compact enough to be used for a wide array of situations on duty, in the field, or for daily use. The Explorer range bag has a large main compartment that comes with a double zippered roll up flap with a hook and loop fastener for added security.
Best Tactical Range Bag-Rebow Tactical Deluxe Pistol Shooting Range Bag
Our Rating:
This deluxe range bag measures in at 16” x 11” x 10”. It has a large main compartment, designed to fit all the gear you need for your next trip to the range. The zippers on each side compartment are lockable, for added security. The deluxe range bag itself is made out of 600 denier nylon fabric that’s heavy duty and durable, designed to handle plenty of use and abuse. The deluxe range bag also comes with a variety of organizational and heavily padded compartments that you can use to store up to three handguns and all the ammo and accessories you need.
Pros
- Heavily padded shoulder strap
- Heavy duty zippers
- Lockable side compartments
- Large storage capacity
Cons
- Range bag doesn’t have waterproof protection
Conclusion
One of the best models on the market, this deluxe range hunting bag comes with all the features you could want in a bag that’s designed to store and haul all of your firearms, shotgun shells, semi-auto magazines, and accessories. The deluxe range hunting bag is definitely built tough and can be used both indoors and outdoors, however, the bag doesn’t feature waterproof protection, which is something to consider if you plan on using this deluxe range bag for your next camping trip or outdoor target practicing session.
Most Durable-OSAGE River Tactical Range Bag
Our Rating:
This Osage River tactical range bag is one of the best shooting bags available. It’s made out of durable 600D ballistic nylon and heavy duty zippers that are designed to protect your firearms and other gear from the elements. This Osage River bag comes with a total of five zippered pockets, two of which are designed for magazine, ear protection, and ammo storage. The Osage River tactical range bag comes with another popular feature, its removable pistol pouches, which are designed to secure your handguns. You can carry the bag using the adjustable padded shoulder strap or handles.
Pros
- Perfect size for weekend use
- Adjustable shoulder strap
- Large main compartment
- Water resistant
- Two removable pistol pouches
- Side pockets for extra storage
- Hook and loop removable dividers
Cons
- Zippers come off track easily when shooting range bag is full
Conclusion
This Osage River range bag is one of the best range bags on the market and a must-have for survivalists and gun enthusiasts who need a bag that’s large enough to store gear and supplies for up to two days. The Osage River bag offers plenty of storage compartments that provide the space you need to keep all of your firearms, ammo, magazines, and shooting accessories neatly organized and readily accessible.
Loaded with Pockets-NC Star Competition Range Bag
Our Rating:
If you’re looking for a range bag that’s loaded with pockets, then you’ll love the latest model by NC Star.
This heavy duty Competition range bag bag comes loaded with plenty of extra features and storage options. On each end, you’ll find pockets with velcro flaps and long padded side pockets that can be used to store handguns. The zippers are heavy duty and come with metal zipper tabs, complete with grommets for padlock use. The main cover also has velcro patches for name and patch tape, in addition to a velcro loop that can be used to secure hearing protection. The compartment on the front is heavily padded and can be used to store and organize magazines. On the inside of the bag are internal elastic loops that are designed to hold up to eight magazines for AR15s, or it can be used for 16 double stack pistol magazines. On the rear, the padded compartment is designed to hold more magazines and shooting accessories. The side compartment with an ID window is also heavily padded and can be used to organize and store eye protection, a shot timer, and other shooting supplies. The beverage pockets on the side have an adjustable bungee, so it’s perfect for bottles and travel cups of all sizes.
Pros
- Large main compartment
- Adjustable shoulder strap
- Tons of pockets
- Made out of high quality materials
- Side compartments for extra storage
- Made out of 600D ballistic nylon
- Hook and loop dividers
Cons
- Range bag has strong chemical smell
- Bag is not water resistant
Conclusion
This competition range bag features mesh bottom netting that you can use to sift the dirt and debris from your brass, and plenty of pockets and other storage options. The bag is perfect for bug out bag use, shooting range use, and is designed to keep all of your ammo, magazines, firearms, scopes, and other supplies on hand and easy to find.
Best Light Duty Shooting Bag-US Peacekeeper Mini-Range Bag
Our Rating:
This light duty shooting range bag comes with side compartments, 8 pistol magazine holders, hook and loop tabs to secure your firearms, deep pockets, and a padded liner made out of brushed tricot. The bag is also water resistant and made out of 600 denier polyester. If you’re on a tight budget, then this bag is definitely in your price range. Affordable, durable, and designed to protect your essential shooting equipment, it’s a perfect choice if you’re looking for a compact range bag. This model has a gun capacity of two handguns, with some room to spare for ear protection, extra ammo, and shooting accessories.
Pros
- 8 pistol magazine holders
- Made out of 600 denier polyester
- Can store two handguns, ammo, and ear protection
- Perfect size for day use
- Lightweight
- Several pockets
- Durable
- Affordable price
Cons
- Bag scuffs and stains easily
Conclusion
This is a good range bag for the gun owner on a budget. If you’re looking for a compact, durable shooting range bag, then this is the right gun bag for you. The compact design makes it a perfect choice for some quick practice at your local shooting range, with a basic design that focuses on durability and efficiency.
Best Tactical Range Ready Bag-GunMate Range Bag
Our Rating:
One of the top range bags available, this GunMate range bag is perfect for carrying a couple of handguns, ear protection, a spotting scope, extra ammo, and other gear you usually take to an indoor or outdoor range. The large main compartment is covered with a rollable flap and zippers on each side, for fast access. The compartments found on each side of the gun bag have lockable zippers. Each of the compartments on the sides of the GunMate range bag have a padded pistol rug that’s removable.
Pros
- Compact
- Durable
- Includes lockable zippers
- Adjustable shoulder strap
- Big main compartment
- Low price
Cons
- Zippers feel flimsy
Conclusion
This GunMate range bag will quickly become your go-to, if you’re looking for a durable bag that’s tough enough for frequent use and designed to hold your firearms and all the essential gear you normally take with you for target practice.
This bag includes removable hook and loop dividers for more organization and storage options. The tool bag/range bag is designed to hold all the gear you need for a day at the range. It’s built tough and one of the most durable range bags available in this price bracket.
Best Range Bag for the Hunter-G.P.S. Handgunner Backpack
Our Rating:
This shooting range backpack is made out of 100% nylon, including a nylon liner. The Handgunner backpack is loaded with storage options, including a lower compartment that features a high density foam cradle that slides in and out. In terms of gun capacity, the Handgunner backpack can hold up to four handguns, placed in a vertical position.
Pros
- Freestanding design
- Holds up to 4 handguns
- Pocket heavy
- Made out of high quality materials
- Side pockets can hold up to 6 magazine
- Adjustable strap
Cons
- Carry handle is flimsy
Conclusion
This tactical range ready bag comes with specialized pockets for items you want to keep readily accessible. There’s also a couple of side pockets that have a six magazine storage capacity. If you want to take this model with you on your next hunting trip or outdoor target practice session, then you’ll appreciate the waterproof cover that will keep all of your gear bone dry in the event it rains.
Range Bag Buying Guide
If you’re tired of stuffing all of your gear into a backpack, or the range bag you currently have seriously limits you in terms of what you can take with you to the range, then this buyer’s guide on how to choose the best range bags will be invaluable. There are many factors that you need to consider before you buy, including:
- Size
- Pockets
- Material
- Durability
A tactical range ready bag should be versatile and able to accommodate all of the gear you want to bring for some intense practice at the range.
The best thing about carrying a range bag is that it’s designed to store everything you need, so you can keep your firearms and ammo within easy reach. Obviously, your firearms and ammo will be the most important things that you’ll bring with you to the range, but there are other things you may also need, such as shooting gloves, hearing and eye protection, and a variety of other products, such as scopes, holsters, and a first aid kid.
Types of Range Bags
You’ll come across many different types and styles of range bags, each of which is designed for different carrying needs. The best range bags offer plenty of carry and storage options. However, what works best for you can be more of a personal preference.
Pistol
A pistol range bag is often compact and designed to specifically store and transport handguns. Many of these bags will come with moldable inserts and forms that are designed to cradle a pistol, to protect it from damage during transport. This can help to significantly reduce damage.
Backpack
Shooters who are used to wearing a backpack may prefer the backpack design over hauling around large tote bag or messenger bag style range bags.
Backpack style bags can be a more convenient way to carry all of your gear. They will prevent shoulder strain, by dispersing the weight of your firearms and other gear, evenly across your back and shoulders.
Tote Bag
If you’re carrying a big load on your back for several miles, this can lead to neck and back pain. A tote bag will allow you to carry the bag in a couple of different ways, which will allow you to switch from shoulder to shoulder or hand to hand. This can ease the strain on any given area.
The way you decide to carry your bag will be a matter of personal preference. Many range bags will come with a shoulder strap and carry handles.
Other Important Features
While you can carry your shooting accessories, ammo, and firearms to the range in any kind of container you have lying around the house or garage, to protect your gear and keep everything well organized, you need to use the best overall tactical range ready bag, one that’s specifically designed to handle the job. The right bag will keep everything you need close at hand, portable, and organized.
Range bags can also prevent wasting time at the range digging through and unloading your container in search of shooting glasses or that elusive magazine you swore you packed. The best range bags will also provide all the space you need to organize your accessories, mags, and ammo, so you’ll know exactly where to find them. This will leave more time to focus on the task at hand-practicing your shooting.
Below, I’ll go over the different features to look for, how they can improve your experience at the range, and why they’re important.
Gun Compatibility
Range bags are each designed for firearms of a certain size. The best range bags feature plenty of storage options. When you’re shopping for a bag, make sure you read the product’s spec sheet to determine if the bag is big enough to carry your firearms of choice. It’s also a good idea to find out if the bag has storage for a particular firearm’s magazine. Some bags will come with compartments where the pockets are designed to store the magazine and firearm together. This will come in handy when you’re at the shooting range and don’t want to go through the entire bag to find the magazines you need. It will also allow someone to store firearms with the correct ammo to prevent confusion if they happen to carry several types of firearms in the same pack.
Durability
Range bags that you use each time you practice will go through plenty of wear and tear. By design, these bags are supposed to carry the heavy weight of your ammo and firearms, carefully, which is why it’s so important to find a shooting range bag that’s durable and built tough.
How durable a bag is often depends on the quality of the material the bag is made out of. Range bags that are made out of high-density materials usually last year after year. When you’re shopping for a range bag, always make sure you take a look at the types of materials the bag is made out of. If the bag isn’t made out of durable materials, it will not be able to handle the weight of your firearms and other gear.
Materials
Look for range bags that are made out of 600 denier polyester or nylon fabric, with a supportive, thick weave. The higher count of polyester or nylon makes a bag more durable.
Storage Capacity
The gear you take with you to the shooting range will consist of a variety of products including maintenance supplies, a first aid kit, ammo, optics, and your firearms. The bag you choose should have enough room to carry all of the essentials. If the bag doesn’t offer enough storage, then you’ll end up compromising on what gear you take with you.
Storage is one of the most crucial aspects of buying a new range bag. It should have enough storage for all of your accessories. Ideally, the bag’s capacity shouldn’t be under 15 liters. Anything smaller will not be able to accommodate all the gear you need.
Compartments
When it comes to compartments, some brands like to include their own patented storage compartments or gun cradles. Many manufacturers will include a padded pistol rug for storing firearms.
Range bags with plenty of storage compartments will allow you to store and organize all of your gear, keeping everything highly accessible and easy to find.
Shoulder Straps
The shoulder strap’s design often has a big impact on how comfortable a bag is or isn’t. If you normally fill your bag to the gills with firearms and accessories, then you need a bag that comes equipped with supportive and heavily padded shoulder straps. This will prevent the straps from digging into your shoulders, making it difficult and uncomfortable to carry a full bag for long. Make sure the shoulder straps are adjustable, so you can shorten or lengthen the straps depending on the weight.
MOLLE
MOLLE webbing technology is used by the military, due to its reputation for customizing options and durability. Range bags with MOLLE webbing will allow you to attach extra gear and supplies to the bag’s exterior.
Zipper
Be sure that the bag you choose comes equipped with a strong zipper, such as a YKK. These bags are designed to handle heavy-duty use and won’t fail you if your bag is full.
Lockable zippers are another great feature and one that can prevent someone from accessing your firearms and supplies without your permission.
Weatherproof
If you’re only planning on taking your bag to an indoor range, then you’re probably not concerned about weatherproofing. However, if you’re like most gun owners, you’re going to bring your bag along with you, whether you’re practicing outdoors, hunting, or going to an indoor shooting range. So, if you want a bag that’s versatile and able to protect your firearms wherever you practice, then a bag that’s weatherproof is a must.
Pockets
If you bring along plenty of ammo, accessories, and magazines, then you need a bag with plenty of pockets. These pockets can be used to keep all of your gear and supplies neatly organized. Pockets can also prevent damage that’s caused by accessories and ammo making contact during transport. Fortunately, most manufacturers know that gun enthusiasts prefer range bags that are loaded with plenty of pockets and storage options.
Padding
The bag should have plenty of padding, designed to protect your firearms and other gear from damage during transport.
Dividers
Because firearms come in different shapes and sizes, adjustable dividers will come in handy. Dividers can prevent your firearms and other gear from rolling around in your range bag and banging into each other.
Pistol Magazine Holders
These pouches will be invaluable if you want to keep all of your ammo organized and ready for action. The right range bag will come with 2-8 pistol magazine holders.
Price
A range bag’s price will be based on the size of the bag, the materials used, size, storage, shoulder strap quality, and brand. If you’re on a tight budget, you can still find a great pistol range bag, but it may not offer the storage space you need. When you’re shopping for the best overall bag, you’ll find models starting as low as $28, all the way up to $299. How much you’re willing to invest in range bags will depend on your budget, how much protection you need, and whether you just need a small pack to take to the gun range, or a bag that can handle outdoor use as well.
What to Bring in a Range Bag
When you head to the gun range, you want to pack all of the essential gear, from earmuffs to extra ammo. Below, I’ll go over some of the essentials you need to pack in your range bag, so you can be sure to bring along all of the gear you need for a fun and effective practice session.
Protective Eyewear
Whether you’re an experienced shooter or a beginner, protective eyewear is a must. Even when you’re just practicing firing off your guns you need to be extra careful, since there are many things that can go wrong. To protect your eyes from accidents during practice sessions, you need to wear shooting glasses. Be sure you keep your eye protection stored in your range bag, so you never head to the range without them.
Hearing Protection
Loud noises can do some serious damage to your hearing, much faster than many gun enthusiasts realize. It doesn’t matter if you’re practicing at an indoor or outdoor range, you always need to wear hearing protection. A pair of noise canceling headphones stored in your bag will do the trick.
Firearms & Ammo
How many firearms do you normally bring with you to the shooting range? How much ammo? You’ll be surprised by how easy and quickly you can go through fifty rounds when you’re practicing. While you can always purchase more ammo when you’re at a range, it can cut into your shooting session. Carrying more ammo with you will save you time and cash. Bags that have a high storage capacity and an innovative design will allow you to easily and neatly store all of your ammo, so you can quickly find it and reload in a matter of seconds.
First Aid Kit
A good range bag just isn’t complete without a first aid kit. Accidents happen, so you need to be prepared for anything. Storing a first aid kit in your range bag is a smart move and one that can save your life.
Cleaning Kit
All firearms require maintenance, whether you need to use a bore snake quickly, or some oil to improve your firearm’s performance. Many gun owners don’t stay on top of routine maintenance, so when they make it to the range finally, they may have a firearm or two that’s in serious need of cleaning or lubrication. Keeping a small cleaning kit in your range bag will come in handy and ensures you’re using a firearm that’s firing ready.
Targets
While a range offers a target with your fee, it’s always a good idea to keep an extra target or two in your bag. If you’re an experienced shooter, then you’ll probably shoot through your targets quickly.
How to Pack Range Bags
How good or bad your practice session at the range goes often depends on the type of gear you bring with you. While you may already have a good idea of what you need to carry in your bag, below I’ll go over what type of gear can help and how to store it in your range bag.
- Before you start packing, write a list of all the items you’ll carry and use a market to label your gear. This step can help you identify the items you won’t need or those you forgot to include.
- Sensitive items, such as phones, cameras, and your wallet, should be kept in a plastic bag. This will add a layer of protection to important personal items and will prevent them from getting dusty, dirty, or wet.
- Wait until your range bag has been fully loaded before you attempt to adjust the straps.
- Pick the bag up and use the strap. Pay attention to the bag’s weight. If you’re going to an indoor range, then the weight of the bag won’t be an issue, but if you’re hiking out to your favorite spot for target practice, then you may need to leave some gear behind if you’re not able to comfortably handle the weight for long.
How Much Gear Do You Need to Bring?
The best range bags should have plenty of storage space, so you can bring all your essential gear to the gun range.
Most shooters end up collecting plenty of stuff from cleaning supplies, tools, ear and eye protection, to ammo and firearms. Getting all of that gear to the range, neatly organized, so you can find everything you need quickly, is where a range bag really shines. If you want to bring along several firearms to the range, in addition to ammo, magazines, and accessories for each of your firearms, then you’ll need a large range bag. If you only have a small pistol or two, a couple of mags, and a box of ammo, then a smaller bag will work just fine. Try to avoid buying a bigger range bag than what you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Look for in a Range Bag?
Some features every range bag should have includes:
- A heavy-duty zipper
- Adjustable straps
- Zipper lock
- Multiple storage compartments
How Much Ammo do You Need for the Range?
Most shooters recommend bringing along a minimum of 150 rounds of ammo for each caliber round you want to shoot. That number should be multiplied by the number of hours you will be at the range.
Can I Bring Loaded Magazines to the Range?
Most ranges won’t have a problem with you bringing a loaded magazine, just as long as it’s kept separate from the respective firearms. If you plan to bring along spare magazines for your rifle or pistol, make sure that you load them prior to leaving so you can focus on spending the majority of your time at the range shooting, not loading.
Why is Steel Ammo Banned at Ranges?
The reason for this ban is due to the damage these rounds can cause. Steel core rounds that are shot in a steel trap or backstop can seriously damage the backstop. Steel rounds are much stronger than lead rounds, and can tear up the range’s structure.
Final Thoughts
Finding the best range bag will depend on your specific needs. A good bag should be tough enough to protect your firearms and other gear from damage and large enough to hold all of your gear. How durable a bag is, organization options, and size, will all play an important role in helping you determine which bag can meet your carry and storage needs. This buying guide and my product recommendations can help point you in the right direction, so you end up with a bag that’s tough and comes equipped with all the storage space you need.
source https://readyandarmed.net/best-range-bag/
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