The Allen Auto-Fit 9″ Black/Red Handgun Endura Made a Bold First Impression
Every firearm, from my grandfather’s trusty old shotgun to the modern pistols I train with today, deserves respect and, perhaps more importantly, protection. I’ve seen too many neglected firearms suffer from rust, scratches, and accidental damage due to inadequate storage. So, when I needed a few more basic soft cases for some handguns I own, I decided to try out the Allen Auto-Fit 9″ Black/Red Handgun Endura. I’ve used Allen products before with reasonable satisfaction.
I was looking for something simple, affordable, and reliable to protect my handguns from scratches and minor bumps during transport to and from the range, or when stored inside larger range bags. Price was a major factor; I didn’t want to spend a fortune on cases that would primarily serve as basic protection. I had previously used some no-name brand soft cases that quickly fell apart, so I decided to try something from a better known brand.
Unboxing the Allen Auto-Fit 9″ Black/Red Handgun Endura revealed a simple but functional design. The Endura fabric felt reasonably durable for the price point. The black and red color scheme is a nice touch, adding a bit of visual appeal to an otherwise utilitarian item. The case felt lightweight and the stitching seemed decent. My initial impression was that it offered good value for the price.
Compared to some higher-end pistol cases I own, like those from Pelican or Savior Equipment, the Allen Auto-Fit clearly isn’t in the same league, but I wasn’t expecting it to be. It is much more basic than a hard case, offering only padded protection. I opted for this case over some other budget options due to the zippered accessory pocket and Allen’s reputation for decent quality, even at lower price points. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping it would live up to its description as a functional and protective case for smaller handguns.
Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Auto-Fit 9″ Black/Red Handgun Endura to the Test
First Use Experience
The first time I used the Allen Auto-Fit 9″ Black/Red Handgun Endura was at my local indoor shooting range. I needed a case to transport my compact 9mm pistol and a spare magazine. The case fit the handgun perfectly. The internal muzzle sleeve kept the gun securely positioned during transport. The zippered pocket held my spare magazine and a small box of ammunition without issue.
I didn’t encounter any wet or dusty conditions during this initial test. The range is climate-controlled. The case proved easy to use, with a smooth zipper and a comfortable carry handle. One minor surprise was how snug the fit was with the magazine in the outer pocket. It created a slight bulge, but nothing that caused any functional issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, transporting my handgun to the range at least twice a week, the Allen Auto-Fit 9″ Black/Red Handgun Endura is holding up surprisingly well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the Endura fabric or the stitching. The zipper still operates smoothly. The interior padding remains intact and hasn’t flattened out.
I’ve found it easy to keep clean; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth removes any powder residue or dirt. Compared to some older soft cases I’ve owned, this one feels much more durable and well-constructed. It surpasses my expectations for a case in this price range. It is a functional piece of gear that performs its intended purpose: protecting your firearm.
Breaking Down the Features of Allen Auto-Fit 9″ Black/Red Handgun Endura
Specifications
- Fits Handguns Up to 9 Inches: This is the primary specification, indicating the maximum handgun size the case can accommodate. This is important to consider as larger guns obviously won’t fit.
- Thick Foam Padding: The thick foam is vital for impact absorption and protecting the handgun from scratches. This is a basic, but essential feature for any gun case.
- Soft Knit Interior Lining: The soft lining prevents scratches and scuffs on the handgun’s finish. This keeps the firearm in good condition and protects the finish.
- Muzzle Sleeve: The muzzle sleeve secures the handgun within the case. It adds an extra layer of protection and prevents shifting during transport.
- Rugged Endura Fabric Construction: The Endura fabric provides durability and resistance to wear and tear. This material is important to ensure long-lasting use and withstand rough handling.
- Contrast Accent Stitching/Embroidery: This is mostly aesthetic, adding a touch of style to the case. The stitching enhances the overall look.
- Large Accessory Pocket: The large pocket provides space for storing spare magazines, eye/ear protection, or other accessories. It adds convenience and functionality.
- Lockable Design: The ability to lock the case adds a layer of security and helps prevent unauthorized access. This feature may be required for legal compliance in some jurisdictions.
- Interior Dimensions: 9″ x 7″: These dimensions are crucial for ensuring your handgun will fit. Confirm your gun is within these dimensions.
Performance & Functionality
The Allen Auto-Fit 9″ Black/Red Handgun Endura performs its job admirably: protecting your handgun. It’s not a vault, but provides a decent level of protection against bumps and scratches. The muzzle sleeve and internal padding keep the gun snug and secure.
The primary strength is its simplicity and effectiveness at basic protection. The weakness is the limited padding and lack of rigid structure which is expected at this price point. It is not a replacement for a hard case. It definitely meets my expectations for a budget-friendly soft case.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent for the price. The materials used, while not top-of-the-line, seem reasonably durable. The case is lightweight. It’s comfortable to carry using the provided handle.
The design is simple and user-friendly. There’s no learning curve. It just requires zipping it open and placing the handgun inside.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Allen Auto-Fit 9″ Black/Red Handgun Endura should last for a reasonable amount of time with regular use. The Endura fabric seems resistant to tearing and abrasion.
Maintenance is simple. It can be easily wiped clean with a damp cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen Auto-Fit 9″ Black/Red Handgun Endura doesn’t come with any additional accessories beyond what is already integrated into the design. There are no real customization options.
It’s a basic case designed for a specific purpose, without much room for modification. You can use various magazine pouches in the outer pocket, if needed.
Pros and Cons of Allen Auto-Fit 9″ Black/Red Handgun Endura
Pros
- Affordable Price: The case is very budget-friendly, making it accessible to almost anyone.
- Decent Protection: It offers adequate protection against scratches and minor bumps.
- Functional Design: The muzzle sleeve and accessory pocket add to its practicality.
- Lightweight and Easy to Carry: Its lightweight design makes it convenient for transport.
- Durable Endura Fabric: The material seems capable of withstanding regular use.
Cons
- Limited Padding: The padding, while adequate, isn’t as substantial as higher-end cases.
- No Rigid Structure: Lacking a rigid frame, it doesn’t offer maximum impact protection.
Who Should Buy Allen Auto-Fit 9″ Black/Red Handgun Endura?
The Allen Auto-Fit 9″ Black/Red Handgun Endura is perfect for:
- Casual shooters who need a basic, affordable case for transporting their handguns to the range.
- Gun owners looking for a simple storage solution to protect their firearms from dust and scratches.
- Budget-conscious individuals who want a decent case without breaking the bank.
Who should skip this product?
- Those who require maximum protection for their firearms, such as during air travel or in harsh environments.
- Individuals seeking a case with advanced features or customization options.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- None really, it’s a basic case that works well as-is.
Conclusion on Allen Auto-Fit 9″ Black/Red Handgun Endura
The Allen Auto-Fit 9″ Black/Red Handgun Endura is a solid, budget-friendly option for basic handgun protection. It’s not the most rugged or feature-rich case on the market.
The value proposition is excellent. At $17.99, it’s hard to find a better case that offers this level of protection and functionality.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable soft case for their handgun. If you need basic protection and don’t want to spend a lot of money, the Allen Auto-Fit 9″ Black/Red Handgun Endura is a great choice. Grab one (or two) today and give your handgun the basic protection it deserves!