5.11 Tactical 36in Single Rifle Case Review

First Impressions of 5.11 Tactical 36in Single Rifle Case

The 5.11 Tactical 36in Single Rifle Case promises to be a dependable and practical solution for transporting rifles to the range or field. 5.11 Tactical is a brand known for rugged, duty-ready gear, and this case seems to follow that design philosophy, offering a blend of protection, modularity, and ease of carry. The market is flooded with rifle cases, from basic soft cases to hard-shell behemoths, but finding one that strikes a balance between portability, protection, and tactical features without breaking the bank can be challenging.

I sought a case that could securely transport my AR-15 without being excessively bulky or screaming “gun inside.” The need arose as I began participating in more tactical shooting competitions and wanted a discreet, yet functional, way to carry my rifle and a few essential accessories. I distinctly remember lugging an oversized hard case to a local match and feeling like I was advertising my presence to the entire parking lot – a feeling I definitely wanted to avoid in the future.

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the understated design and the seemingly robust 600D polyester construction. The 5.11 Tactical 36in Single Rifle Case feels solid in hand, and the padding appears to be ample enough to protect the rifle from bumps and jostles. Compared to some of the flimsier soft cases I’ve used in the past, this one feels noticeably more substantial.

I also considered the Savior Equipment American Classic Tactical Double Rifle Bag and the Plano AW2 36″ All Weather Tactical Gun Case. The Savior Equipment bag, while offering double rifle capacity, was larger than I needed for most situations. The Plano AW2, a hard case, was durable but lacked the external MOLLE webbing and streamlined design of the 5.11 Tactical offering.

My initial impression of the 5.11 Tactical 36in Single Rifle Case is positive. It seems to strike a good balance between tactical functionality, discreet transport, and reasonable cost. I was cautiously optimistic that this case would meet my needs, offering both protection and practical features for range days and tactical training.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting 5.11 Tactical 36in Single Rifle Case to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the 5.11 Tactical 36in Single Rifle Case took place at a local outdoor shooting range. I transported my 34-inch AR-15, along with three magazines and a small cleaning kit, utilizing the case’s internal straps and external MOLLE webbing. The case performed admirably, keeping my rifle secure during transport and providing easy access to my gear.

The case held up well in the dusty environment. It shielded my rifle from the elements and kept the internal components clean. The ease of use was also a highlight, as I didn’t need any time to get accustomed to its features; the layout felt intuitive and practical.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the 5.11 Tactical 36in Single Rifle Case has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. The 600D polyester has held up exceptionally well, showing only minor signs of wear around the zipper pulls and MOLLE webbing attachment points. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime.

Compared to a basic soft case I used previously, the 5.11 Tactical case offers significantly better protection and organizational capabilities. While the soft case was lighter, it lacked the padding and modularity that make the 5.11 Tactical 36in Single Rifle Case a far more versatile and practical option for serious range use. It has consistently outperformed my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of 5.11 Tactical 36in Single Rifle Case

Specifications

The 5.11 Tactical 36in Single Rifle Case is constructed from durable 600D Polyester, making it resistant to abrasions and light moisture. It features an internal length of 36 inches, an overall length of 38 inches, a height of 12.5 inches, and a depth of 3 inches. The case weighs in at 1.1 kg, striking a balance between providing ample protection without being excessively heavy.

• External MOLLE Webbing: Allows for the attachment of additional pouches and accessories, greatly expanding the case’s carrying capacity.
• Internal Rifle Retention Straps: Keep the rifle securely in place during transport, preventing unwanted movement and potential damage.
• Padded Butt Stock and Muzzle Sleeves: Offer extra protection to the most vulnerable parts of the firearm, minimizing the risk of scratches or impacts.
• YKK Lockable Zippers: Provide enhanced security and peace of mind, preventing unauthorized access to the contents of the case.
• Gear Set Compatibility: Further expands the customization options, allowing users to integrate other 5.11 Tactical Gear Set accessories.

These specifications are important because they contribute to the case’s overall functionality, durability, and user-friendliness. The robust construction ensures the rifle is well-protected, while the modularity allows users to tailor the case to their specific needs. The lockable zippers add an extra layer of security, which is particularly important when transporting firearms.

Performance & Functionality

The 5.11 Tactical 36in Single Rifle Case excels in its primary function: securely and discreetly transporting a rifle. The internal retention straps effectively prevent the rifle from shifting during transport, while the padded sleeves offer additional protection to the muzzle and buttstock. The external MOLLE webbing allows for the attachment of magazine pouches, first aid kits, or other essential accessories, making it a versatile platform for range days or tactical training.

One minor weakness is that the internal space could be slightly tight for rifles with larger optics or accessories attached. However, this is a trade-off for maintaining a compact and streamlined profile. Overall, it meets my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The 5.11 Tactical 36in Single Rifle Case features a well-thought-out design that balances functionality and aesthetics. The 600D polyester construction feels durable and provides adequate protection without adding unnecessary bulk. The padded carry handle and removable shoulder strap offer comfortable carry options, even when the case is fully loaded.

The case is relatively user-friendly, with an intuitive layout and easy access to the rifle and accessories. The MOLLE webbing is well-placed and allows for versatile customization. There is essentially no learning curve with the case.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the 600D polyester construction and reinforced stitching, the 5.11 Tactical 36in Single Rifle Case is expected to last for years with proper care. The material is resistant to abrasions, tears, and light moisture, making it suitable for a variety of environments. Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is typically all that is needed to remove dirt and grime.

The YKK zippers are also a testament to the case’s overall durability, as they are known for their reliability and resistance to wear and tear. All the components speak to a long lifespan.

Accessories and Customization Options

The 5.11 Tactical 36in Single Rifle Case comes with removable rifle retention straps and a removable shoulder strap. The most significant customization option is the external MOLLE webbing, which allows users to attach a wide range of pouches and accessories. The Gear Set compatibility further expands these options, allowing users to integrate other 5.11 Tactical accessories seamlessly.

The case is compatible with most standard MOLLE pouches, allowing for a high degree of customization. Users can easily attach magazine pouches, medical kits, or other essential items to suit their individual needs. The overall level of customization options is high.

Pros and Cons of 5.11 Tactical 36in Single Rifle Case

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy 5.11 Tactical 36in Single Rifle Case?

The 5.11 Tactical 36in Single Rifle Case is perfect for tactical shooters, range enthusiasts, and law enforcement personnel who need a durable and discreet way to transport their rifles. It is also well-suited for anyone who values modularity and the ability to customize their gear setup. Anyone needing a simple, dependable rifle case will benefit.

This product might not be ideal for those who need to transport multiple rifles simultaneously or require the rigid protection of a hard case. Those individuals might be better suited to other rifle case options.

A must-have accessory for this case would be MOLLE-compatible magazine pouches. Modifications are not necessary but are possible.

Conclusion on 5.11 Tactical 36in Single Rifle Case

Overall, the 5.11 Tactical 36in Single Rifle Case is a well-designed and practical solution for transporting rifles. Its durable construction, modular design, and comfortable carry options make it an excellent choice for a wide range of users. The value proposition is strong; the case offers a compelling blend of features and durability at a reasonable price point.

I would definitely recommend this case to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile rifle transport solution. It is a worthwhile investment that will provide years of dependable service. If you’re in the market for a rifle case that balances protection, functionality, and value, the 5.11 Tactical 36in Single Rifle Case is definitely worth considering.