Let’s Talk About Landing Gear Deluxe Floating Shotgun Case
The Landing Gear Deluxe Floating Shotgun Case is a seemingly simple yet potentially vital piece of gear for any shotgun owner who frequents the water. As someone who spends a significant amount of time hunting waterfowl and clays, I’ve learned the hard way that accidents happen. A dropped gun near or in the water can quickly turn a great day sour, making a quality floating case more than just a convenience – it’s cheap insurance.
What initially drew me to the Landing Gear Deluxe Floating Shotgun Case was the promise of reliable protection and, crucially, its ability to float. Too many times I’ve seen buddies scramble after a slipped gun, and the thought of my own beloved Beretta taking a swim isn’t appealing. This case aims to address that directly.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the feel of the tough 600D fabric. The material feels rugged and ready to withstand the rigors of the field. It felt surprisingly lightweight, considering its intended purpose of protecting a firearm and offering flotation.
I considered a few other options before settling on this one. I looked at the Allen Company floating case, which is a bit cheaper, but felt flimsier. Another competitor was the Boyt Harness Bob Allen floating case, which is certainly higher end, but the Landing Gear Deluxe Floating Shotgun Case seemed to offer the best balance of quality and affordability.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The construction seemed solid, and the promise of floating peace of mind was definitely exciting, but the real test would be in the field. I was eager to see if it lived up to its claims.
Real-World Testing: Putting Landing Gear Deluxe Floating Shotgun Case to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real-world test of the Landing Gear Deluxe Floating Shotgun Case took place on a late-season duck hunt in the marshlands of Louisiana. The conditions were less than ideal, with a persistent drizzle and a stiff wind creating choppy waters. I deliberately subjected the case to some simulated mishaps near the water’s edge.
The case performed admirably in the wet conditions, the 600D fabric repelling water effectively. More importantly, when I tossed the case into the shallow water with a (unloaded!) shotgun inside, it floated exactly as advertised. This instilled a lot of confidence.
The ease of use was also a pleasant surprise. The wrap around carry handles with removable padded shoulder strap made it comfortable to carry, even with waders and a heavy jacket. I encountered no unexpected issues during this initial outing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple duck hunts and trips to the sporting clays range, the Landing Gear Deluxe Floating Shotgun Case has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even with constant exposure to mud, water, and the occasional briar patch. The stitching remains intact.
Maintaining the case has been simple. A quick rinse with a hose and a wipe down with a damp cloth are usually all it takes to keep it looking good. So far, it has definitely outperformed my expectations for a case in this price range.
Compared to a standard non-floating case, the peace of mind this case provides is invaluable. It has become an indispensable part of my gear, knowing that my shotgun has a fighting chance if it takes an unexpected dip.
Breaking Down the Features of Landing Gear Deluxe Floating Shotgun Case
Specifications
The Landing Gear Deluxe Floating Shotgun Case boasts several key specifications:
- It’s designed to accommodate shotguns up to 52 inches in length. This covers most common shotgun sizes, including my 30-inch barreled over-under.
- The case is constructed from tough 600D fabric, providing excellent water resistance and abrasion resistance.
- Closed cell foam is used throughout the case for both extra protection and floatation. This foam doesn’t absorb water, ensuring buoyancy.
- It features wrap around carry handles with a removable padded shoulder strap. These provide versatile carrying options.
- Two accessory pockets are included for storing extra gear. These are handy for choke tubes, cleaning supplies, or extra shells.
- The case is available in camo to blend into natural environments, especially useful for hunting.
These specifications are more than just numbers; they directly impact the case’s performance. The 600D fabric keeps moisture out, preventing rust and damage to the firearm. The closed-cell foam ensures that the shotgun stays afloat.
Performance & Functionality
The Landing Gear Deluxe Floating Shotgun Case excels at its primary job: protecting a shotgun and keeping it afloat. The closed cell foam provides adequate padding against bumps and scrapes. When submerged, the case floats reliably, keeping the shotgun near the surface for easy retrieval.
The strengths of this case lie in its simple yet effective design. It is easy to use, offers good protection, and provides peace of mind on the water. There is room for improvement with the size and layout of the accessory pockets.
Overall, the case meets and slightly exceeds my expectations for a product in its price range. It delivers on its promises of protection and flotation.
Design & Ergonomics
The Landing Gear Deluxe Floating Shotgun Case has a functional and straightforward design. The camo pattern is practical for hunting. The wrap around carry handles are comfortable.
The build quality is impressive for the price. The materials feel durable and the stitching is well-executed. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Landing Gear Deluxe Floating Shotgun Case is built to last. The 600D fabric is resistant to tears and abrasions. The closed cell foam retains its buoyancy over time.
Maintenance is simple. Any dirt or mud can be easily rinsed off with water.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Landing Gear Deluxe Floating Shotgun Case comes with a removable padded shoulder strap. This offers added carrying comfort.
There aren’t many customization options available for this particular case, and frankly, they aren’t really needed. The two accessory pockets are adequate for small items.
Pros and Cons of Landing Gear Deluxe Floating Shotgun Case
Pros
- Reliable flotation thanks to the closed-cell foam.
- Durable 600D fabric construction for long-lasting use.
- Affordable price point offers excellent value.
- Comfortable carrying with wrap-around handles and a padded shoulder strap.
- Provides peace of mind when hunting near water.
Cons
- Accessory pockets could be larger and better organized.
- Padding could be thicker for more robust protection against impacts.
Who Should Buy Landing Gear Deluxe Floating Shotgun Case?
The Landing Gear Deluxe Floating Shotgun Case is perfect for:
- Waterfowl hunters who frequently hunt from boats or near bodies of water.
- Sporting clays enthusiasts who want a basic, functional case that offers some protection against the elements.
- Anyone who wants an affordable and reliable way to transport their shotgun while ensuring it won’t be lost if accidentally dropped in water.
Who should skip this product?
- Those seeking a high-end case with maximum impact protection.
- Shooters needing extensive storage for a wide range of accessories.
- Individuals looking for a lightweight, minimalist case for upland bird hunting where flotation isn’t a concern.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- Consider adding a small waterproof pouch to the accessory pocket for storing essential items like choke tubes or a small cleaning kit.
- While not necessary, some may prefer to add a more substantial shoulder pad for enhanced comfort during long carries.
Conclusion on Landing Gear Deluxe Floating Shotgun Case
The Landing Gear Deluxe Floating Shotgun Case offers a compelling combination of affordability, functionality, and peace of mind. It’s not the fanciest or most feature-rich case on the market. However, it excels at its core mission: protecting your shotgun and ensuring it floats if accidentally dropped in the water.
The price is definitely justified. You are getting a durable and reliable case that could potentially save you from a costly and frustrating mishap. It’s a small investment for a significant level of insurance.
I would personally recommend the Landing Gear Deluxe Floating Shotgun Case to anyone who spends time hunting or shooting near water. It’s a practical and effective solution for protecting your valuable firearm. Don’t risk losing your shotgun to the depths. Invest in a Landing Gear Deluxe Floating Shotgun Case and enjoy your time in the field with confidence.