BG WATERFOWL FLOATING GUN CASE Review

First Thoughts on the BG WATERFOWL FLOATING GUN CASE

The BG WATERFOWL FLOATING GUN CASE – even the name conjures images of misty mornings, decoys bobbing on the water, and the anticipation of a successful hunt. As someone who’s spent over a decade wading through swamps and marshes, protecting my firearm from the elements is paramount, and a reliable gun case is non-negotiable. When I first saw the BG WATERFOWL FLOATING GUN CASE, I was immediately intrigued by its promise of both protection and buoyancy, especially at its affordable price point.

My usual gun case, a rigid model with custom foam inserts, is excellent for transport but bulky and impractical in the field, especially when wading or navigating from a small watercraft. I needed a case that was lightweight, offered basic protection from bumps and scratches, and, crucially, wouldn’t sink like a stone if accidentally dropped in the water. This model aims to solve exactly that.

Upon receiving the BG WATERFOWL FLOATING GUN CASE, my initial impression was one of practical simplicity. The Mossy Oak Bottomland camo pattern is classic and effective for waterfowl hunting. While the polyester material feels less robust than higher-end cases, it’s surprisingly lightweight. I was curious to assess the actual buoyancy, and the durability of the stitching and zipper.

Compared to a similarly priced, non-floating case from Allen, the BG WATERFOWL FLOATING GUN CASE offered the obvious advantage of buoyancy. Against a more expensive, heavily padded Drake Waterfowl case, it seemed less luxurious but potentially more practical for quick, wet hunts where keeping weight down is critical. Against a Browning canvas case, the BG product looked better suited for very wet conditions.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It seemed like a potentially excellent solution for a specific need: affordable, floating protection for my shotgun in wet environments. I was eager to see how it performed in the real world.

Real-World Testing: Putting BG WATERFOWL FLOATING GUN CASE to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the BG WATERFOWL FLOATING GUN CASE was on a duck hunt in the marshlands of the Chesapeake Bay. The weather was typical for late season: cold, drizzly, and with a stiff breeze. I tested the gun case with my 12-gauge shotgun inside, carrying it slung over my shoulder as I waded through knee-deep water to my blind.

The ease of use was immediately apparent. The sling was comfortable enough for the short walk, and the zipper, while not heavy-duty, operated smoothly even with wet hands. My biggest concern was the claim of floating and, unfortunately, it did struggle a bit with the weight of my shotgun. While it didn’t sink completely, it required conscious effort to keep the muzzle above the water line. It would certainly buy you time to retrieve it if dropped, though.

One initial surprise was the case’s resistance to mud and water. The polyester material shed water fairly well, and the mud wiped off easily, which is a huge plus in a marsh environment. The zipper seemed to resist light splashing, but I wouldn’t trust it in a complete submersion.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full waterfowl season of using the BG WATERFOWL FLOATING GUN CASE, it has held up surprisingly well, considering the price. There are a few minor signs of wear and tear, primarily some slight fraying of the stitching around the zipper and the sling attachment points.

The durability has been adequate, surviving numerous trips in the back of my truck and being dragged through the mud and reeds. The Mossy Oak Bottomland camo has started to fade slightly in areas exposed to direct sunlight, but the overall functionality remains intact.

Maintenance is simple. A quick rinse with fresh water and a wipe down with a damp cloth are usually sufficient to remove mud and grime. So far the zipper has resisted corrosion, but I make sure to lubricate it regularly with a silicone-based spray.

Compared to my previous experiences with more expensive gun cases, the BG WATERFOWL FLOATING GUN CASE doesn’t offer the same level of robust protection against impacts. However, for its intended purpose – providing basic protection and buoyancy in wet environments – it has performed admirably, especially considering the budget-friendly price.

Breaking Down the Features of BG WATERFOWL FLOATING GUN CASE

Specifications

The BG WATERFOWL FLOATING GUN CASE is designed specifically for waterfowl hunting and features:

• A length of 52 inches, accommodating most standard shotguns. This is a good size for most shotguns.
• A classic Mossy Oak Bottomland camo pattern for concealment in natural environments. This is a classic pattern for many hunting scenarios.
• Construction from durable polyester material. This is a compromise for weight and price.
• A convenient sling for easy carrying. It’s a simple sling, but effective.
• The primary function is floating gun protection, designed to prevent your firearm from sinking if dropped in water. This is of course dependent on the weight of your firearm.

These specifications emphasize the case’s core purpose: lightweight, camouflaged protection with the added benefit of buoyancy. The polyester material provides a degree of water resistance and durability, while the sling allows for hands-free carrying.

Performance & Functionality

The BG WATERFOWL FLOATING GUN CASE performs its primary function adequately, providing basic protection against bumps, scratches, and light moisture. As mentioned earlier, the buoyancy is somewhat limited by the weight of the firearm.

The case’s strengths lie in its lightweight design, ease of use, and effective camouflage. However, the zipper could be more robust, and the overall padding is minimal.

Overall, for the price point, it meets expectations as a basic, floating gun case. Someone needing to cross deeper water may look for a more buoyant option.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is decent for the price, though not exceptional. The polyester material feels somewhat thin, but the stitching appears to be reasonably strong. The weight is very manageable, making it easy to carry even for extended periods.

The design is straightforward and user-friendly, with a simple zippered closure and a comfortable sling. There’s no real learning curve involved.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability is acceptable for light to moderate use. Expect some wear and tear over time, especially with heavy use in harsh environments.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only basic cleaning and occasional lubrication of the zipper. The polyester material is relatively resistant to stains and mildew.

Accessories and Customization Options

The BG WATERFOWL FLOATING GUN CASE is a basic, no-frills product and does not come with any accessories beyond the attached sling. There are no customization options available.

It’s designed to accommodate a standard shotgun and doesn’t offer any specialized features for mounting optics or other accessories.

Pros and Cons of BG WATERFOWL FLOATING GUN CASE

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Who Should Buy BG WATERFOWL FLOATING GUN CASE?

The BG WATERFOWL FLOATING GUN CASE is perfect for waterfowl hunters who need a lightweight, affordable way to protect their firearm and prevent it from sinking. It’s also suitable for anglers or anyone who spends time near the water and wants a basic level of protection for their long gun.

Hunters who require maximum protection for their firearm in extreme conditions or those who frequently carry heavy, expensive shotguns should consider a more robust and buoyant alternative.

A must-have accessory would be a can of silicone-based lubricant to keep the zipper functioning smoothly and prevent corrosion, particularly in saltwater environments.

Conclusion on BG WATERFOWL FLOATING GUN CASE

The BG WATERFOWL FLOATING GUN CASE is a solid choice for hunters looking for an inexpensive, lightweight, and functional way to protect their firearm and prevent it from sinking. While it lacks the robust construction and luxurious features of higher-end cases, it delivers on its core promise of providing basic protection and buoyancy at a budget-friendly price.

The price is definitely justified. It’s hard to find another floating gun case at this price point.

I would personally recommend it to budget-conscious hunters who prioritize lightweight portability and basic protection over extreme durability.

If you’re looking for a simple, effective, and affordable way to safeguard your shotgun during waterfowl season, the BG WATERFOWL FLOATING GUN CASE is worth considering. Don’t let a dropped gun ruin your hunt – invest in a little peace of mind.

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