NCStar Double Carbine Case Urban Gray 42″ Review

The NCStar Double Carbine Case Urban Gray 42″ Made a Bold First Impression

The NCStar Double Carbine Case Urban Gray 42″ isn’t just another soft case; it’s a statement. From NCStar, a name often associated with practical and budget-friendly gear, this case promises to safely transport two rifles and a decent amount of kit, all wrapped in a low-profile urban gray aesthetic. It aims to provide a convenient and organized solution for transporting firearms without screaming “tactical” to the world.

I needed a discreet and reliable way to transport my AR-15 and a backup rifle to the range. I was tired of juggling two separate cases or using flimsy, unpadded options that offered minimal protection. I wanted something durable, organized, and that wouldn’t break the bank.

Unboxing the NCStar Double Carbine Case Urban Gray 42″, the first thing that struck me was the size; it was larger than expected, but not unwieldy. The urban gray color is subtle and blends in well, unlike some overtly tactical cases. The PVC material felt reasonably tough, and the stitching appeared solid, raising my initial expectations for its durability.

I considered the Savior Equipment American Classic Double Rifle Case and the Plano All Weather Tactical Gun Case, both of which are popular choices. The Savior Equipment case was pricier but seemed to offer slightly better padding, while the Plano offered hard-case protection but sacrificed portability. I opted for the NCStar Double Carbine Case Urban Gray 42″ because it seemed to strike a good balance between protection, organization, and affordability.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The size and layout looked promising, but I was skeptical about the long-term durability given the price point. I was excited to see how it would perform in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting NCStar Double Carbine Case Urban Gray 42″ to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the NCStar Double Carbine Case Urban Gray 42″ was a trip to my local shooting range. It was a sunny day, but the range was dusty. I loaded my AR-15 and a .22LR rifle, along with magazines, hearing protection, and tools into the various compartments.

The case handled the weight well, and the padded dividers kept the rifles from banging against each other during transport. The zippered compartments proved useful for organizing magazines and small tools. The external pockets easily swallowed my hearing protection and a small range bag.

There was a slight issue with the zippers on one of the smaller compartments sticking a bit, but nothing major. Otherwise, the case performed admirably, offering a secure and organized way to transport my rifles and gear.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the NCStar Double Carbine Case Urban Gray 42″ has held up reasonably well, though some wear and tear is becoming noticeable. The PVC material shows some scuff marks, but there are no rips or tears. The stitching remains intact.

The zippers, while still functional, are starting to feel a bit less smooth. I wipe down the case with a damp cloth after each range trip to remove dust and dirt. It seems to clean up easily.

Compared to my old single rifle cases, the NCStar Double Carbine Case Urban Gray 42″ is a significant upgrade in terms of organization and convenience. It hasn’t outperformed a hard case in terms of ultimate protection, but it’s far more manageable and easier to carry.

Breaking Down the Features of NCStar Double Carbine Case Urban Gray 42″

Specifications

• Accommodates two rifles up to 42″ in length. This allows for carrying most AR-15 platforms and similar sized rifles.
• Constructed of heavy-duty PVC material. The PVC offers reasonable water resistance and abrasion resistance for the price.
• Main compartment features 1/2″ closed-cell foam padding on all sides. This provides adequate protection against bumps and scratches.
• Heavy-duty zippers with metal zipper pulls (padlock compatible, lock not included). The zippers, while not top-of-the-line, are functional and can be secured with a small padlock for added security.
• Diagonal pockets and hook and loop straps secure rifles inside the main compartment. This prevents excessive movement during transport.
• Secondary compartment with two zippered compartments and two padded hook and loop compartments. Provides space for storing pistols, optics, or other accessories.
• Three exterior pockets with hook and loop flaps and quick-connect buckles. These pockets offer ample storage for magazines, hearing protection, and other essential gear.
• Adjustable bungee cording on exterior pockets. Allows for adjusting the pocket size to accommodate different sized items.

These specifications are important because they dictate the case’s capacity, level of protection, and overall organization. The padding protects the firearms, while the compartments keep everything organized. The size ensures it can accommodate a variety of rifle configurations.

Performance & Functionality

The NCStar Double Carbine Case Urban Gray 42″ performs its primary function of transporting rifles adequately. It offers enough protection to prevent scratches and minor bumps. The various compartments and pockets allow for organized storage of magazines, tools, and other accessories.

The main strength is its affordability and organizational capacity. It provides decent protection for the price. A major weakness is the quality of the zippers; they could be more durable and smoother in operation.

It generally meets expectations for a budget-friendly double rifle case. It’s not the most rugged or luxurious option, but it gets the job done.

Design & Ergonomics

The urban gray color is a nice touch, offering a low-profile alternative to overtly tactical cases. The PVC material feels reasonably durable, though not as robust as higher-end materials. The weight is manageable, even when fully loaded.

The layout of the compartments is well-thought-out and user-friendly. There’s a slight learning curve in figuring out the best way to organize everything, but once you find a system, it’s easy to use.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the NCStar Double Carbine Case Urban Gray 42″ should last for several years of moderate use. The PVC material is relatively easy to clean with a damp cloth.

Repairing any damage, such as a broken zipper, might be challenging and potentially not cost-effective given the price of the case. Replacement might be a better option in case of significant damage.

Accessories and Customization Options

The case itself doesn’t come with any specific accessories beyond the internal dividers and straps. Customization is limited, but users could add aftermarket MOLLE pouches to the exterior for additional storage.

It is compatible with most standard magazine pouches and other MOLLE-compatible accessories. This adds a degree of flexibility.

Pros and Cons of NCStar Double Carbine Case Urban Gray 42″