Handgun Concealed-Carry Case Review

The Handgun Concealed-Carry Case Made a Bold First Impression

The Handgun Concealed-Carry Case from MTM promises secure and discreet transportation for your handgun at an unbelievably accessible price of $17.99. It’s a simple, red clamshell case designed to offer basic protection and prevent unwanted attention. I was intrigued to see if such an inexpensive option could genuinely meet the needs of responsible gun owners, or if it would prove to be a false economy.

I’d been searching for a low-profile solution for transporting a compact handgun to and from the range. My existing hard cases were bulky, drawing unnecessary attention when entering the range from the parking lot. The Handgun Concealed-Carry Case looked like a potential answer, offering a more subdued profile while still maintaining a degree of protection.

The initial unboxing was straightforward. The case felt surprisingly sturdy for its price, with a positive latching mechanism. The bright red color wasn’t exactly “covert,” but it was certainly more discreet than a tactical-looking black case.

Compared to my Pelican case and even a basic Plano pistol case, the Handgun Concealed-Carry Case wins on pure minimalism and cost. I picked this over a soft-sided pistol rug because of the added rigid protection, and over more expensive hard cases because I wanted something basic and inexpensive. The case is certainly more basic.

My first impression was a mix of surprise and cautious optimism. The build quality seemed adequate, and the size was perfect for my needs. However, I was concerned about the long-term durability of the plastic and the lack of internal padding. Only real-world testing would reveal if the Handgun Concealed-Carry Case could truly deliver.

Real-World Testing: Putting Handgun Concealed-Carry Case to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test was a trip to the local shooting range. I carried a Glock 19 inside the Handgun Concealed-Carry Case, inside a larger range bag. I wanted to assess its usability and how well it protected the firearm during transport.

The case performed adequately in dry conditions at the range. The handgun fit securely, and the latch remained firmly closed throughout the journey. There were no issues with opening or closing the case, even with slightly sweaty hands.

There weren’t any major issues in the initial use, but the lack of internal padding became immediately apparent. The handgun rattled around slightly inside the case, which was a bit unnerving.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Handgun Concealed-Carry Case continues to function as intended, but with some reservations. The plastic shows no signs of cracking or breaking, although I’m treating it gently. The red plastic has some minor scratches.

Cleaning the case is simple: a quick wipe with a damp cloth is all that’s needed. No special maintenance is required. It doesn’t compare to my higher-end cases in terms of durability or features, but it holds its own, considering the price.

Compared to my previous experiences with more robust cases, the Handgun Concealed-Carry Case is definitely a step down in terms of protection and features. It is adequate.

Breaking Down the Features of Handgun Concealed-Carry Case

Specifications

  • The Handgun Concealed-Carry Case is designed by MTM to provide basic, discreet storage for handguns. Its simplicity is its strength.
  • It’s made of molded plastic, measuring approximately 12 inches long, 8 inches wide, and 3 inches deep. This makes it compact enough for easy transport.
  • The case features a single, secure latch to keep it closed and prevent accidental openings. The latch, while functional, does feel somewhat flimsy.
  • The interior is unlined, providing a barebones space for your handgun. This lack of padding is both a cost-saving measure and a potential drawback.
  • The case is bright red, a color choice that might not be ideal for true “concealment,” but certainly less conspicuous than a tactical black or OD green case. The red color stands out more than I anticipated.

These specifications highlight the Handgun Concealed-Carry Case’s focus on affordability and basic functionality. It sacrifices features like padding and a subdued color scheme to keep the cost down. Whether these trade-offs are acceptable depends on the user’s specific needs and priorities.

Performance & Functionality

The Handgun Concealed-Carry Case performs its basic job of containing and protecting a handgun adequately. It prevents the firearm from being exposed or easily accessible to unauthorized individuals. The secure latch keeps the case closed during transport.

The main weakness is the lack of internal padding. This allows the handgun to move around inside, potentially leading to scratches or other minor damage. The bright red color may also attract unwanted attention in certain situations. It meets bare minimum expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Handgun Concealed-Carry Case has a simple, clamshell design. The molded plastic feels reasonably sturdy, although not exceptionally durable. It is lightweight, making it easy to carry.

The case is user-friendly, requiring no special knowledge or skills to operate. The latch is easy to open and close, even with one hand. There’s virtually no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The lifespan of the Handgun Concealed-Carry Case will likely depend on how carefully it’s used. The plastic is resistant to cracking under normal conditions, but may be susceptible to damage from impacts or extreme temperatures. Basic cleaning is all that’s needed.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt or debris. The simplicity of the design means there are few parts that can break or require repair. It’s easy to clean and maintain.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Handgun Concealed-Carry Case comes with no accessories. There are no customization options available from MTM. Because of the unlined interior, there are endless possibilities to customize your own padding.

The simple design of the Handgun Concealed-Carry Case allows for basic customization. You could add your own foam padding to improve protection. Aftermarket locks can be easily implemented through the handle.

Pros and Cons of Handgun Concealed-Carry Case

Pros

  • Extremely affordable.
  • Lightweight and compact.
  • Simple and easy to use.
  • Provides basic protection from the elements.
  • More discreet than tactical-looking cases.

Cons

  • Lacks internal padding.
  • Bright red color may attract unwanted attention.
  • Plastic construction feels somewhat flimsy.


Who Should Buy Handgun Concealed-Carry Case?

The Handgun Concealed-Carry Case is perfect for budget-conscious gun owners who need a basic case for transporting a handgun to the range or for temporary storage. This would be most useful for casual plinkers, or those who need to comply with storage regulations without spending a fortune.

Those seeking maximum protection for expensive firearms or those requiring true concealment should skip this product. Competition shooters, hunters operating in harsh environments, and those who prioritize discretion above all else should opt for a more robust and feature-rich case.

Adding custom-cut foam padding would significantly enhance the Handgun Concealed-Carry Case’s protective capabilities. Consider purchasing a small padlock for added security during transport or storage.

Conclusion on Handgun Concealed-Carry Case

The Handgun Concealed-Carry Case offers a compelling value proposition for those on a tight budget. It provides a basic level of protection and concealment at an incredibly affordable price. While it lacks the features and durability of more expensive options, it fulfills its primary function adequately.

The price is definitely justified. This is a good value case for the money.

I would cautiously recommend the Handgun Concealed-Carry Case to those who understand its limitations and prioritize affordability above all else. If you’re looking for a no-frills solution for transporting your handgun safely and discreetly without breaking the bank, this case is worth considering. Upgrade from that old cardboard box today!


Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top