Let’s Dive into Allen Floating Shotgun Case
The Allen Floating Shotgun Case promises peace of mind for waterfowlers and anyone who spends time around the water with their shotgun. Protecting your firearm from the elements is crucial, but the added assurance of buoyancy elevates this case above the standard offerings. This review dives deep into whether the Allen Floating Shotgun Case lives up to its claims and if it’s the right choice for protecting your prized shotgun.
I was constantly worried about dropping my shotgun overboard while duck hunting from my layout boat. The thought of it sinking to the bottom of the marsh was enough to keep me up at night. I needed a reliable case that not only protected my gun but also offered a crucial layer of safety – the ability to float.
My initial impression upon receiving the Allen Floating Shotgun Case was positive. The Realtree MAX-5 Camo looked great, and the Endura fabric felt durable. I was eager to test its floating capabilities and overall protection.
Compared to a standard, non-floating case, the Allen Floating Shotgun Case immediately stood out with its added thickness and obvious flotation material. I also considered a higher-end, waterproof hard case, but the bulkiness and cost were prohibitive for my needs. I ultimately chose the Allen Floating Shotgun Case for its balance of protection, buoyancy, and affordability.
I was initially excited about the potential of this case to solve my problem of water-related worries. However, I was also cautiously optimistic, wondering if the floating claim would truly hold up under real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Floating Shotgun Case to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Allen Floating Shotgun Case during a duck hunting trip on a local reservoir. I used it to carry my 12-gauge shotgun to my blind, ensuring it was well-protected from the morning dew and potential splashes from the boat. The water-resistant Endura fabric kept the light rain out, and the reinforced web handle made it easy to carry, even with gloves on.
The conditions were damp and chilly, with a light drizzle throughout the morning. The case kept my shotgun dry, which is crucial for reliable performance in the field. It was easy to slide the gun in and out of the case, even with bulky gloves.
The hook & loop closure seemed secure enough, though I wondered about its long-term durability. After a full morning of use, I noticed no immediate issues, and the case performed as expected.
The only real surprise was the size limitation reported by another user. Unfortunately, my shotgun with a 28-inch barrel did not fit comfortably. While my 26-inch barrel shotgun fit perfectly, this revealed a clear limitation that needs to be carefully considered.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Allen Floating Shotgun Case on various hunting trips, I found it held up reasonably well. The Endura fabric showed no significant wear and tear, and the stitching remained intact. The camo pattern also helped to conceal the case in the field.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear, mainly some minor scuffs on the fabric. However, the case has retained its shape and functionality. The hook & loop closure is still working fine, though I anticipate it might be the first point of failure over time.
Maintenance is simple: I just wipe down the case with a damp cloth after each use. I have not needed to do any serious cleaning.
Compared to my previous experiences with basic, non-floating gun cases, the Allen Floating Shotgun Case offers a significant upgrade in terms of peace of mind. While it does not outperform a hard case in terms of pure protection, it strikes a good balance between protection and portability, with the added benefit of buoyancy.
Breaking Down the Features of Allen Floating Shotgun Case
Specifications
The Allen Floating Shotgun Case features a 52-inch overall length, designed to accommodate most shotguns with barrels up to 26 inches. It’s constructed from rugged Endura fabric and comes in Realtree MAX-5 Camo. Other features include a floating case design, a hook & loop closure, a reinforced web handle, and an exterior accessory pocket. The case is designed for rifle but is marketed and sold as a shotgun case, adding to confusion surrounding the fit. It’s made in the USA.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the case’s ability to protect your shotgun and provide peace of mind in wet environments. The Endura fabric ensures durability, while the flotation material guarantees your shotgun won’t sink if dropped in the water. The Realtree MAX-5 Camo helps conceal the case in hunting environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Allen Floating Shotgun Case performs its primary job of protecting your shotgun from bumps, scratches, and light moisture very well. The floating feature is a significant advantage for anyone who spends time around water. However, the limited barrel length capacity (26 inches) is a critical drawback for those with longer barrels.
The strengths include its buoyancy, decent protection, and affordable price. The major weakness is the limited barrel length capacity. It meets expectations for basic protection and buoyancy but falls short for those with longer-barreled shotguns.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is good for the price. The Endura fabric feels durable, and the stitching is well-executed. The weight is light enough for comfortable carrying, even for extended periods.
The case is relatively user-friendly, with a simple hook & loop closure that allows for quick access to your shotgun. There is a slight learning curve in terms of understanding its size limitations, especially if you are used to cases that accommodate longer barrels.
Durability & Maintenance
The Allen Floating Shotgun Case appears to be durable enough to last for several seasons of regular use, provided it’s not subjected to excessive abuse. The Endura fabric is resistant to tears and abrasions, and the reinforced handle can withstand the weight of a shotgun.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. There are no specific repair needs anticipated beyond potential issues with the hook & loop closure over time.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen Floating Shotgun Case comes with a basic exterior accessory pocket, which can be used to store small items like choke tubes or cleaning supplies. There are limited customization options available for this case.
It’s not really compatible with any major accessories beyond standard shotgun cleaning kits that can fit in the accessory pocket. You can attach a small carabiner to the handle to clip it to a blind bag, if desired.
Pros and Cons of Allen Floating Shotgun Case
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of users.
- Floating design provides peace of mind when hunting or shooting near water.
- Durable Endura fabric offers decent protection from bumps and scratches.
- Realtree MAX-5 Camo blends well with most waterfowl hunting environments.
- Lightweight and easy to carry with the reinforced web handle.
Cons
- Limited barrel length capacity (26 inches) restricts its use for many shotgun owners.
- Hook & loop closure may not be as secure or durable as a zippered closure.
Who Should Buy Allen Floating Shotgun Case?
The Allen Floating Shotgun Case is perfect for waterfowl hunters with shotguns that have barrels 26 inches or less. It is also a good choice for recreational shooters who want a basic, affordable case with the added benefit of buoyancy when shooting near water. It would also benefit boaters and anglers who bring along a shotgun for protection against wildlife.
Those with shotguns that have longer barrels (over 26 inches) should skip this product. Anyone needing a very rugged, waterproof case for extreme conditions should also look elsewhere.
A must-have accessory would be a small waterproof bag for storing choke tubes or cleaning supplies in the exterior pocket.
Conclusion on Allen Floating Shotgun Case
The Allen Floating Shotgun Case is a decent option for those needing a basic, affordable shotgun case with the added benefit of buoyancy. Its durable construction and camo pattern make it suitable for hunting environments. However, the limited barrel length capacity is a significant drawback that needs to be carefully considered.
The price is certainly justified for what you get – a functional, floating shotgun case that will protect your firearm from basic wear and tear. However, the size limitation reduces its overall value.
I would cautiously recommend it, with a strong caveat: measure your shotgun barrel before purchasing to ensure it will fit. If your shotgun meets the size requirements, it’s a good value. If not, you’ll need to look for a different solution. This product serves a valuable purpose for a limited audience. Don’t be left with a case your firearm won’t fit inside.