Best AR-15 Cases Buyer’s Guide

The range of AR-15s is incredible nowadays.

You can buy one for about $500 and have all the advantages of the basic model or get a $3,000 fancy one with all the additions.

But no matter which one you choose, it will only work if protected properly.

That’s why you need the best AR-15 case choice. A case will protect the gun and help you avoid curious eyes on it.

The choice, though, has to be based on what type and level of protection you need, how much additional space the case should have, etc.

We have 10 cases here of different brands and for different needs, but all of the great quality. After the TOP list, you can find a buyer’s guide with all the information needed to make the right choice.

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[wpsm_highlight color=”blue”]Boyt Harness H36SG Hard Sided Travel Case

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• High 120D Polypropylene
• Pressure Relief Valve
• Dust Proof O-Ring
• Steel Hinge Pins
• Collapsible Grip Handle

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We’ve tested 10 AR-15 cases and the winner is above!
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AR-15 Cases Comparison Chart

10 Best AR-15 Cases (as of April, 2024):

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1. Boyt Harness H36SG Hard Sided Travel Case Review

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• High 120D No-Break Polypropylene
• All Steel Powder Coated Draw Latches
• Pressure Relief Valve
• Padlock Compatible
• Steel Hinge Pins

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Boyt Harness has a whole H-Series of travel cases that come in all sizes you can think of. This Boyt Harness H36SG Hard Sided Travel Case is the most suitable for an AR-15.

The shell is made from 120D polypropylene and features powder-coated steel latches, which already sounds like a solid #1 choice. 

Specs

• The storage is from egg crate foam, which isn’t cut exactly for your AR-15 but provides more storage possibilities;
• You get one of two colors: black or flat dark earth;
• The case is water and dust resistant due to the O-ring gasket;
• You also get ball bearing wheels for easier transportation;
• The latches are also replaceable, which makes the case even more customizable;
• The padlocks can be installed in many locations – there are 6 holes on the outside of the case;
• You can cut the foam to the shape of your AR-15 to make sure it fits properly.

Recommendation

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If you have a very long AR-15, AR-10, or another long rifle, consult the manufacturer as to the type of case you should get.
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There’s a model slightly larger that will be perfect for the purpose.

Main Features

• Made of High 120D No-Break Polypropylene
• All Steel Powder Coated Draw Latches
• Pressure Relief Valve
• Collapsible, Comfort Grip Handle
• Padlock Compatible
• Steel Hinge Pins
• Dust Proof O-Ring Full Length Gasket
• Limited Lifetime Warranty

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• Has water and particle resistant gasket
• Has a very thick shell
• Comes with high-quality latches
• Has 6 positions for padlocks

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• Is quite heavy

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2. Flambeau Outdoors 6500AR Tactical Case Review

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• Rugged Polymer Construction
• Anti-Corrosion Zerust Technology
• Convoluted Foam
• Magazine Storage Dividers
• Velcro Straps & Integrated Handle

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This Flambeau Outdoors 6500AR hard case was made specifically for AR-15s. The inside isn’t pre-made and enclosed, but the construction is still capable of holding your gun well in place.

Specs

• The storage is made from foam with customizable Velcro straps and plastic dividers;
• The dividers come with Zerust to avoid magazine corrosion;
• The storage is customizable;
• You get great value for money.

Recommendation 

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Read the manual before using the case. You’ll find out that the inside has to be taken out of the case to install the Velcro straps and other things that will help you make the most use out of the case. 
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The storage is very customizable as it’s removable, but it’s not recommended to try and fit more than one AR-15 and its accessories in the case.

Main Features

• Rugged Polymer Construction
• Convoluted Foam
• Magazine Storage Dividers
• Anti-Corrosion Zerust Technology
• Velcro Straps For Securing Gun & Magazines
• Secure Closures With Four Locking Points
• Integrated Handle
• Meets TSA & Airline Safe Requirements

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• Is sturdy
• Has durable materials
• Convenient Velcro straps help hold the gun in place
• Made specifically for AR-15s
• Zerust is included for corrosion resistance

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• Is too thick

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3. Pelican 1700 Rifle Case Review

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• 3-Piece Foam Set
• Automatic Pressure Equalization Valve
• Watertight, Crushproof & Dustproof
• Fold Down Side Handle
• O-Ring Seal

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The most heavy-duty hard case on the list – Pelican 1700 Rifle Case has more than you would need. The material for the shell is Copolymer Polypropylene – it’s very durable and damage-resistant.

Specs

• In the case, there’s a 3-piece foam set of storages;
• You can get a black, olive, or flat dark earth colors;
• The case comes with convenient double-throw latches and a water-resistant O-ring;
• The case equalizes pressure automatically due to a valve placed on it;
• For easier transport, the case has ball bearing wheels;
• You get a non-pre-cut foam inside so that the placement of things is your decision;
• The foam cores of the walls make the case more lightweight than it seems.

Recommendation

This is a very tough hard case for a gun as it’s airtight.

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You can see this is a professional unit due to all the reinforcements it has, not to mention the pressure equalization valve.
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The latter helps to open the case easily, no matter whether it has been before and what abuse it withstood.

Main Features

• 3-Piece Foam Set
• Strong Polyurethane Wheels With Stainless Steel Bearings
• Watertight, Crushproof & Dustproof
• Open Cell Core With Solid Wall Design
• Fold Down Side Handle
• Easy Open Double Throw Latches
• Stainless Steel Hardware & Padlock Protectors
• Automatic Pressure Equalization Valve
• O-Ring Seal

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• Has amazing durability
• Provides a high level of protection
• Is airtight
• Has reinforced elements
• Has non-pre-cut foam
• Has wheels

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• Is pricey

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4. Bulldog Cases Ultra-Compact Case Review

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• Durable Nylon, Water-Resistant Outer Shell
• Laminated Tricot Heat Resistant Lining
• 2 Internal Extra Magazine Pouches
• 2 1/2″ Total Soft Padding
• Full Length Heavy-Duty Zipper & Zipper Pull

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The Bulldog Cases Ultra-Compact case is really one of the smallest in the market, which adds a lot to the ease of use. It’s made from ballistic nylon and was created specifically for the AR platform. Keep in mind that you will have to separate the upper part from the lower one to fit the gun into the case.

Specs

• It provides two inside compartments and two separate pockets for spare magazines;
• You get a divider for the two parts of the gun; it’s padded to provide more protection;
• The case is available in black and navy colors;
• The straps can be placed anywhere;
• The handles of the bag are wrapped around it to provide more protection;
• It can fit a firearm up to 27”;
• The lining is heat-resistant and won’t stick to the parts of the gun;
• It’s capable of fitting an M16A2 style 20″ upper.

Recommendation

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This is one of the most protected soft cases, very good for those who want to draw as little attention to the gun as possible.
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Some reviews state it’s difficult to keep the upper and lower parts of the gun separately, but with an additional set of Velcro straps from a home-builder store will solve the problem.

Main Features

• Fits Firearms Up to 27″
• Durable Nylon, Water-Resistant Outer Shell
• Padded Divider Protects Gun Parts & Optics
• Laminated Tricot Heat Resistant Lining
• 2 Internal Extra Magazine Pouches
• 2 1/2″ Total Soft Padding
• Full Length Heavy-Duty Zipper & Zipper Pull
• Wrap- around Carry Handles

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• Straps can customize the bag
• Very compact
• Two colors available
• Has some additional compartments

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• Minimum storage
• May become bulky if you need more stuff to carry

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5. Lancer Tactical Double Carbine Soft Case Review

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• Quality Woven 600 Denier Polyester
• Quick Detach Buckle System
• Four Lines of MOLLE Webbing
• EVA Foam Brace Surround
• Double Velcro Straps

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This Lancer Tactical Soft Case can hold well two rifles plus an additional SBR or a pistol. It has lots of external compartments and some webbing if you need more stuff to carry. There’s also a great choice of five colors, and you can get one of two sizes: 36” and 42”.

Specs

• It’s made from 600D polyester and is quite durable;
• You get a lot of storage with a large central compartment with an additional side one, 3 pockets on the size on a zipper and 2 unzippable pockets;
• It comes in black, gray, brown, green, and tan colors;
• It’s equipped with shoulder straps, a pocket for your ID, a divider inside the bag for carrying two rifles (it can also act as a shooting mat);
• There’s a MOLLE webbing for more convenience and extra pockets;
• There are Velcro straps that make this bag a convenient backpack.

Recommendation

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Be careful when choosing the size as the dimensions are described based on the outside of the bag.
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The good thing is, if you confuse the size, it’s easy to get the fitting one as the company treats their customers very well. According to some reviews, they go overboard to provide you with a convenient resolution to a problem.

Main Features

• Quality Woven 600 Denier Polyester
• Four Lines of MOLLE Webbing
• EVA Foam Brace Surround
• 2 Zippiered Inner Compartments
• 2 Velcro Closure Inner Compartments
• Quick Detach Buckle System
• Double Velcro Straps
• Removable Padded Backpack Straps & D-Rings
• Padded Carrying Handle
• Chest Strap For Increased Stability

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• Can be used as a backpack
• Is capable of carrying two rifles and a pistol
• Has lots of additional storage
• Has MOLLE webbing
• Comes in different sizes and colors

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• Isn’t water-resistant

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6. Savior Equipment Urban Bag Review

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• Industrial 600D PVC Nylon Fabric
• Holds 2 Rifles & 2 Pistols
• Laser-Cut Style MOLLE Grid
• Anti-Theft Zippers

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Savior Equipment Urban Bag never disappoints, no matter whether you need to protect a small handgun or a large rifle. This double carbine case has everything you need from one, and it’s the US patent! There are dividers for magazines included in the package, and you can install them in the same way. 

Specs

• Perfect for carrying an AR-15 or any other rifle of a similar size;
• The case can fit a sidearm and a great number of magazines, as well as other accessories you may need;
• The materials are very durable and pressure-resistant, so you’re buying one case for years of use;
• There are anti-theft zippers;
• Transformable straps included;
• Comes with unquestionable Lifetime Warranty from Savior.

Recommendation

The case is very economical. You get to fit all your stuff there, and if you need to store the bag empty, it will take very little space.

Main Features

• Holds 2 Rifles & 2 Pistols
• Additional Pockets
• Heavy Duty Industrial 600D PVC Nylon Fabric
• Heavy-Duty Double Stitching Seam
• Laser-Cut Style MOLLE Grid
• Hook-N-Loop Strips
• Lockable Zipper Sliders
• D-Rings & Paracord Zippers
• Adjustable & Removable Backpack Straps
• Drag Handles Included

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• Compact when empty
• Lots of compartments
• Durable materials
• Fits AR-15 perfectly

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• None found

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7. Haley Strategic Rifle Case Review

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• Very Concealable & Durable
• 1000D Cordura Body
• Reinforced Elements
• High-Quality Zippers

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Haley is one of the most professional manufacturers of gun cases, chest rigs, etc. This Haley Strategic Rifle bag has everything you need, maybe except the MOLLE web. The case is almost unbreakable due to material quality.

Specs

• It doesn’t look like a gun case, very concealable;
• 1000D Cordura body, reinforced elements, high-quality zippers all contribute to the durability;
• It’s capable of holding different kinds of ammunition;
• Comes in two sizes.

Recommendation

The case itself is more than you need, so push the capabilities to the max without trouble. The bag is multifunctional and transformable, doesn’t take much place when stored empty, and provides adequate durability and protection.

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It’s a bit waterproof due to the materials’ quality, but make sure you don’t submerge it underwater.
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Main Features

• Can Hold Different Types Of Ammunition
• Very Concealable, Compact & Durable
• Compartments For Magazines & Other Accessories
• 1000D Cordura Body
• Reinforced Elements
• High-Quality Zippers

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• Can hold different types of ammunition
• Is compact
• Is durable
• Has lots of compartments for magazines and other accessories

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• No MOLLE web

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8. Bulldog Cases BD100-40 Review

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• Ballistic Nylon
• 1 1/2″ Total Soft Padding
• Laminated, Brushed Tricot
• Scratch-Resistant Inner Lining
• It Floats!

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Bulldog is one of the most famous and high-quality brands when it comes to gun cases. This one is on the cheaper side, for those who have a tight budget.

Specs

• The Bulldog Cases BD100-40 case is made from ballistic nylon, which is quite durable;
• 1 1/2″ soft padding inside to protect the gun;
• The inside of the case is scratch-resistant, protecting your rifle.
• There’s a water-resistant outer shell, which is very good for a soft case.

Recommendation

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The thick padding inside provides sufficient protection for your rifles, as well as the sleeves used to hold them in place.
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It’s very important to buy from a brand that uses durable, high-quality materials and construct their products thinking about you feeling comfortable carrying it. And this is just such an option.

Main Features

• Ballistic Nylon
• 1 1/2″ Total Soft Padding
• Durable Nylon Water-Resistant Outer Shell
• Full Length Zipper W/ Pull
• Laminated, Brushed Tricot
• Soft Padding
• Scratch-Resistant Inner Lining
• Travel Friendly

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• Is affordable
• Durable materials
• The inside is scratch-resistant
• Is water-resistant

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• No storage pockets

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9. Plano All Weather Tactical Gun Case Review

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• Pressure Release Valve
• Dual-Stage Lockable Latches
• Continuous Dri-Loc Seal
• Dust-Proof & Waterproof

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If you’re looking for a case that can endure any environment, pay attention to this Plano All-Weather case. The company has been in business since 1952, so they really have experience.

Specs

• The cases are US-made;
• This case unites all the perks of other specialized hard cases, resisting moisture, UV radiation, temperature, and elements;
• The Dri Loc seal makes sure no water gets inside, even if the case is outside in heavy rain (which is not recommended);
• The foam isn’t pre-cut, so you decide where and how to place your gun.

Recommendation

The composition is very durable and waterproof; the foam inside provides a lot of protection.

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Pay attention when flying with this case. If you have to put it on the conveyor belt, which you most often do, it may get stuck, which is pretty inconvenient.
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Main Features

• Rugged, Industrial-Strength Construction
• Pressure Release Valve
• Dual-Stage Lockable Latches
• Foam isn’t Pre-Cut
• Dust-Proof & Waterproof
• Dri-Loc Seal Makes Sure No Water Gets Inside
• Resisting UV Radiation, Temperature & Elements

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• Domestic product
• The foam isn’t pre-cut
• Durable materials
• Resists environmental damage

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• Less rigid than the previous model

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10. UTG Covert Homeland Security Gun Case Review

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• High-Quality 600D Polyester
• High-Quality Padding Inside
• Adjustable Shoulder Straps
• Velcro Straps

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The UTG Covert Homeland Security Gun case is made from high-quality 600D Polyester, which makes it quite durable.

Specs

• To separate the parts inside the case, you can use velcro straps that come in the package;
• There’s a front section with 4 magazine pockets;
• There are also 6 elastic loops for other accessories you may need;
• The padding inside the bag provides a high level of protection for the gun;
• Convenient transportation using an adjustable shoulder strap with padding is available.

Recommendation

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This case is very functional and accommodates different kinds of firearms, including AR-15. It will fit up to 6 pistols and lots of magazines.
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This is surprising, considering that the case looks quite compact.

Main Features

• High-Quality 600D Polyester
• Quite Compact
• Front Section With 4 Magazine Pockets
• 6 Elastic Loops For Accessories
• High-Quality Padding Inside
• Adjustable Shoulder Straps
• Velcro Straps

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• Durable materials
• Has adjustable shoulder straps
• Has high-quality padding inside
• Has a sufficient number of additional compartments

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• None found

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Best AR-15 Cases Buyer’s Guide: What You Should Look for in a Case?

There are lots of things to consider before even looking at a list of the best AR-15 cases. But after reading this guide, you’ll be able to pick the best option in minutes.

Level of Protection

The main reason you should get a gun case is to protect it. Hard cases usually do it better due to their shell. Also, the more padding you have inside, the higher the level of protection. If it’s waterproof (you can seal the edges), it’s even better.

But there’s a drawback: you’re carrying more weight, and the case is quite bulky.

 

Soft cases are all waterproof to some extent. So, if you’re after less weight and bulkiness, there’s a way out with the soft case.

Size

The size should fit almost perfectly. If the case is too small, you won’t be able to fit the AR-15 even when separated. If it’s too large, it’s a waste of space, plus the gun will move too much inside.

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The golden rule is the length of the rifle + 2”.
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Pay attention to the additional elements you have, and be sure the case has enough space for them. People often forget about optics, buying cases created for iron sights.

Durability

In a gun case, look for materials that can withstand a lot of abuse. You’ll toss it around for a long time, and the wear will be significant, even if you don’t go to a range that often. Moreover, it’s a firearm we’re talking about, and it has to be protected by a high-quality, sturdy construction at all times. 

Usually, when you’re after durability, hard cases are supposed to make the best choice.

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Solid materials are considered tougher, but when broken, they can become a much bigger hazard than a steadily wearing soft case.
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Besides, the soft materials can be repaired for some time, which prolongs their life, therefore adding kudos to the durability. 

Storage Availability

There’s not always a need for additional storage in your case, but having some extra pockets is very useful. There are lots of things you may want to take along: 

• Earmuffs;
• Safety glasses;
• Spare magazines;
• Maintenance stuff;
• Targets, etc. 

A range bag may satisfy the need, but you should consider overall convenience. Will it be okay to carry two large bags to the range?

Via: @nrbelcher

Soft vs. Hard AR-15 Cases

The major question that pops up in your head must be, “So is it a hard or a soft case?”. 

Let’s see; it’s a hard case if:

• You’re looking for a case to travel by air with.
  TSA regulations say that any firearm must be in a hard-shell case and shipped as checked luggage. It’s also important to have enough locks that are approved by TSA so that no one has access to the gun.
• You’re looking for maximum protection.
  Hard cases are primarily made from solid plastic and have a lot of foam inside to create padding. It absorbs a lot of vibration, and the hard shell isn’t that flexible to allow any pressure on the gun. While soft cases also provide a fair amount of protection, the hard ones are better at it.
• You’re practicing in a humid environment.
  Hard cases are the best at water resistance, given they have a seal around the edges. Such cases are usually able to float due to the foam inside, so your AR-15 won’t be submerged and damaged by water. Soft cases dry faster, but there are more chances of getting water inside.
• You’re concerned about theft.
  It’s much more difficult to steal a hard case with an AR-15 inside than a soft one. There are locks on the zippers, but a sharp knife can go a long way. But a hard case works well against knives, kicks, and other kinds of damage, so it’s easier to lock it. They are also heavier and larger, which can become an obstacle for the sticky fingers.

Via: @tacticaltogo

And it’s a soft case if:

• You’re limited in budget.
  On average, an adequate hard case will be more expensive than an adequate soft case. Sometimes it’s much better to spend more money on ammunition and opt for a soft case with sufficient protection.
• You want to be able to repair the case and prolong its life.
  When a hard case breaks, it breaks dramatically and forever. With a soft case, though, some sewing skills can go a long way and increase the longevity of the bag. If a zipper breaks, you can change it; if a sew starts to wear out, you can renew it.
• You need a non-bulky case.
  Soft bags take less space as there’s no reason for large amounts of foam to prevent your AR-15 from bouncing around. Even if all the storages are full, a soft case will take a fraction of the space, a full hard case might take.
• You need to store the case on a shelf and have limited space.
  If the amount of space a non-used case takes is a priority for you, opt for a soft case. You can fold it, and it will take up a tiny corner. But with a hard case, it doesn’t matter if it’s full or empty; it’s still solid and will take up the same amount of space.
• You’re concerned about stealth.
  Harder cases are more difficult to steal/steal from, but they also look quite obvious. If you need to conceal the case, pick a soft one. It can look like you’re driving with a bag of fishing goods, sports gear, or anything else. There are hard cases that look like guitar ones, for example, but it’s still an obvious target. Soft cases are much more concealable.
• You need a lot of storage space.
  When choosing a hard case, it’s difficult to get just enough storage space for additional stuff. And carrying two bags will most definitely be difficult. With a soft gun case, though, there’s no issue with the amount of storage you can take. Disassemble the gun if you need more space; you don’t have to fit it in a mold after all.

Via: @evolve3dprinting

These points of reference will help you greatly with the choice. Both types of AR-15 cases are great for their own reasons. 

The Bottom Line

The choice of an AR-15 case should greatly depend on your needs and preferences. But those have to be based on the knowledge about different types of cases, their pros and cons, as well as the list of 100% high-quality brands that won’t disappoint.

And now that you have that knowledge, it’s much easier to choose, especially if you’re a beginner.

Such guides are essential for those who want to make their first purchase, and if you didn’t understand something by the end of the article, we recommend you go read the buyer’s guide again. After this, the descriptions of the products won’t seem that difficult.