Best Range Day Bag

[Lycan]

I'm planning to visit the range more often, so I am looking to have a backpack ready to go.

I plan to carry 3-5 pistols depending on the goal, especially since most will be in similar calibers when I go to the range.

Currently, I have a Springfield Armory duffle bag (small-ish), and it holds way too much. I find that I lean more towards the backpack type of storage, especially with the outdoor ranges, that require additional longer distance walking.

I carry ears, glasses, ammo - I usually don't bring my own targets unless it's something particular. I buy the targets at the range.

What do you normally use when you go to the range?

I did find a few other threads, especially from the folks that participate in competition shooting. At this point I don't do competition, just trying to improve my skillset and familiarize myself with my collection.

Other threads I did find:

My new shooting bags

The bigger the bag, the more I carry. So I've trying out progressively smaller range bags. DAC Technologies sent me both of their Gunmaster bags (which include cleaning kits) I just got them today, cant wait to use them.

www.1911fanatics.com

Vertx A-Range Bag & Shooters Connection Tournament Series Bag

I have too many bags and need to get rid of a few so here is what I have for sale. I have a slightly used Vertx A-Range bag for sale. It is a fantastic bag and has tons of room in it, very durable and is in excellent condition. No rips, tears, no faded color, etc...it's like new. The bag runs...

www.1911fanatics.com

Most of those threads are older, so hoping to find some info that is at least from 2023.

What's a fair budget for a range back these days? Am I looking over $100? Should I try to find a used one off eBay?

 

[TDC4]

I use this a similar range bag to this. And I love it. I tend to carry a separate ammo can. Due to the amount of rounds a bring with 5 handguns.
TIDEWE Tactical Range Backpack Bag for Gun and Ammo with Pistol Case https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08D6P3SXQ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&ref_=cm_sw_r_ud_dp_XJZN9ZQDP3J8V05GPDBW

 

[ryan.davis]

I bought one made by gps tactical years ago. It has held up very well and holds more than what I should probably be carrying.

 

[ThemanJC]

While my needs are different, the company that makes the bag I use makes some that may accommodate your needs. I use the Specialist bag from Savior. It holds up to two pistols and six mags, though I can fit more if I have to. I generally only take one at a time - mostly because I am a clean freak and I don't want to clean more than one at a time. But I digress…

Savior makes much larger bags and have a number of accessories available. Here is the url : https://www.saviorequipment.com/

You can also order from their store on Amazon, which I find easier - especially if I need to return something.

They are very well made, simple and quality. Plus, the prices are very reasonable.

Hope that helps!

 

[sourdough]

How you address your needs for a range bag has everything to do with why and how ofter you will be shooting. If competition is in your future, your bag better have wheels. I became very tired of carrying a large range bag from one state to another for multiple shoots per month. Zuca makes a cart that is quite adaptable to anyones needs. For frequent shooting, think about more than a bag.

 

[Unleaded]

@sourdough 's recommendation for wheels makes a bunch of sense. Since I don't compete, and my home range is on gravel, surrounded by farmland and woods, I need the carried sort. For that, I can't recommend the Eberlestock Bang Bang highly enough. Idiotic name, and a bit pricey, but absolutely the most durable and efficient range bag I've ever owned (out of maybe 10-12). Liked it so much I bought one for each of my grown sons this past Christmas. Took it to Gunsite last year (where there were plenty of well-equipped shooters) and received several compliments/questions. It's really well done.

 

[Lycan]

I don't really want wheels. I'm not looking for cart style.

 

[Unleaded]

I don't really want wheels. I'm not looking for cart style.

Just to clarify my post, the Eberlestock doesn't have wheels.

 

[Wags]

I use a bag made by 5.11 - range ready bag I think it's called. It has a long compartment with places to store multiple at least 8 magazines on one side, and on the other two large pockets for first aid, tools, etc… That's not including the main middle pouch that can hold multiple pistols, stapler, staples, tape for targets, shot timer, towel, holsters, mag pouches…. And more. It has done quite well for me.

 

[69bee]

I am looking for a new range bag also, i bought a cheap one at a gun show 4 years ago.

 

[Mike A1]

It's not fancy however all my Boyt bags, even from the 70s are still great tough bags.

Boyt Harness Company Plantation Series Range Bag

Color: Taupe Size: Overall: 18" L x 8" W x 10" H Main compartment: 14" L x 7" W x 8" H Front pocket: 14" L x 2" W x 6.5" H Two side pockets: 2" L x 7" W x 7" H Outer shell material is nylon/poly pique Top grain leather accents Self† repairing nylon zippers Closed cell foam padding Cotton web...

www.boytharness.com

 

[Babboonbobo]

I like to use a Pelican hard case, can carry 4-6 pistols and never have any damage. I'll soon be getting one for two rifles/shotguns
I need to be able to carry the Beretta 1301 and Benelli M4 or two ARs

I don't think you can go wrong with hard cases. I also use fishing lure boxes for magazine storage and transporting (model #23606 works well)

 

[idlethunder]

I can't give you the specific models but I have several Midway branded bags from Midway USA in 3 or 4 different sizes. Never had any trouble with them and a few are getting close to 25 years old. Years ago I tried a backpack style and didn't care much for it but I'm sure they have evolved a lot since then

 

[1911owner]

I saw a mention of wanting a backpack. This is not a backpack. It can be slung so that you carry the weight on youor back, but it's not a backpack. Still, for the record, I use approximately the bag shown on the page at the link down below. On that page, this one is $54.99, more than I paid for almost exactly the same bag a decade ago. Mine came with everything shown plus the brass bag that I now see only on the 5.11 bag. Pllus, mine came with two zipper pouches perfect for carrying pistols.

I have three of them, and only one has ever had a problem at all, and that was just that the strap between the two zipper pulls came unsewn on one end, so I can't grab the strap and pull to close both zippers at the same time. It hasn't proven significant. I've been saying for 5 years that I would sew that back. Maybe next week.

Anyway, that's all I know about range bags. Somewhere above I saw it said that the right choice depends on why you're going, how you're going, and what constraints you place on your shopping. There are gazillion really good choices out there and if you take your time you will wind up with an excellent bag at a reasonable price.

Good shooting!

MidwayUSA Competition Range Bag Black

The MidwayUSA Competition Range Bag was built from the ground up to be the best range bag on the market. Perfect for competition or a day at the range,...

www.midwayusa.com

 

[Southern Shooter]

I'm planning to visit the range more often, so I am looking to have a backpack ready to go.

I plan to carry 3-5 pistols depending on the goal, especially since most will be in similar calibers when I go to the range.

Currently, I have a Springfield Armory duffle bag (small-ish), and it holds way too much. I find that I lean more towards the backpack type of storage, especially with the outdoor ranges, that require additional longer distance walking.

I carry ears, glasses, ammo - I usually don't bring my own targets unless it's something particular. I buy the targets at the range.

What do you normally use when you go to the range?

I did find a few other threads, especially from the folks that participate in competition shooting. At this point I don't do competition, just trying to improve my skillset and familiarize myself with my collection.

Other threads I did find:

My new shooting bags

The bigger the bag, the more I carry. So I've trying out progressively smaller range bags. DAC Technologies sent me both of their Gunmaster bags (which include cleaning kits) I just got them today, cant wait to use them.

www.1911fanatics.com

Vertx A-Range Bag & Shooters Connection Tournament Series Bag

I have too many bags and need to get rid of a few so here is what I have for sale. I have a slightly used Vertx A-Range bag for sale. It is a fantastic bag and has tons of room in it, very durable and is in excellent condition. No rips, tears, no faded color, etc...it's like new. The bag runs...

www.1911fanatics.com

Most of those threads are older, so hoping to find some info that is at least from 2023.

What's a fair budget for a range back these days? Am I looking over $100? Should I try to find a used one off eBay?

Hello Lycan, for a range bag I use the one I got from the NRA when I paid my membership dues one time. It's 17" long 9" wide and 10" tall. It can carry 3 - 5 pistols and ammo easy in the center compartment. It has a compartment on each end that holds my earmuffs and glasses in one and my binoculars and rangefinder in the other. It has another compartment on the front that would hold ammo too. For hard cases I got mine at Harbor Freight. They have 3 different sizes for handguns and one for rifles and they are excellent lockable cases. I have 4 of the handgun cases and zero complaints with any of them. And I doubt if you will find any comparable hard cases at their prices. Here is a link to the hard cases: https://www.harborfreight.com/search?category=2055&q=apache
If you want a backpack style, I have 2 brand new NRA backpacks that are really nice. They are a suitable size for your needs with several compartments. I'm sure I could be persuaded to part with one of them if you want it. I hope this helps you.

 

[Skyviking]

I have a few range bags. They're kind of like buying kydex holsters... I have a 5.11 Tactical Range Bag that is huge. Don't think they make it any more as it is a beast to tote around when fully loaded... Great for packing lots of gear to take to the range and then leaving it the trunk or taking it to the bench as a "home base". I generally use a Dillon Range bag, or an Eagle Range bag I got at Gunsite's shop years ago. If you are looking for a backpack style, Midway USA has one, as does GPS Gunner Gear. Never seen the midway product, but GPS gear is very well-made. While at the Gunsite Alumni Shoot (GAS) I use a 5.11 Tactical Rush 24 backpack to schlep around my spare pistol, magazines, and ammo.

 

[Kevin Rohrer]

I believe I got mine from 5.11. Better is better due to all the junk it should contain besides firearms.

 

[KyCarl]

I just use a old leather sporting clays bag? not fancy but it works

 

[joepistol]

I bought one of Midway's range bags years ago..it's still brand new / never used.
Why ?'cause the bag I've used for more years than I can remember still works great.

It is similar to a tool bag I have, just a generic bag with handles & a shoulder strap,
1 large compartment..holds my pistols, ammo, asst targets, tape, ear muffs, mags , & maybe a water bottle
Bag has 2 equal sized zippered pockets on the front. Both pockets together are about = to the length of the bag.
In 1 pocket goes range key card, pocket knife, small bags of pins & roofing nails ( to attach targets to asst backings)
also drop my phone, wallet, & keys in this pocket. The other pocket contains small rag, safety glasses & case, small btl. of oil,
a Lyman screwdriver w/ asst tips, small bag of q tips, asst. allen wrenches, a box of .22ammo (always have a spare box with me)
maybe a couple of spare magazines for the pistols /rifles I'm shooting that day. Also have a pistol length rod w/. 38 /.45 sized brushes/tips
, and a "solid "squib" rod..( for OTHERS mistakes)..LOL

I can move things around if I need to carry other additional items, but almost never need to take more than I can fit in the bag, or it's pockets.

 

[ALL_comped_EVERYTHING]

I use a range bag for fix-it-stick field kit, ear & eye pro but mainly use my SKB cases to transport my pistols and I have a SKB double rifle case