NcStar 28″ Subgun AR and AK Pistol Case Tan Review

The NcStar 28″ Subgun AR and AK Pistol Case Tan Made a Bold First Impression

The NcStar 28″ Subgun AR and AK Pistol Case Tan isn’t going to win any beauty contests, but its straightforward design and budget-friendly price tag immediately caught my eye. As someone who owns several AR and AK pistols, I’m always on the lookout for affordable and practical storage solutions. This case from NcStar promised to be just that: a no-frills, functional option for transporting and storing my shorter firearms, and I was eager to see if it lived up to its claims.

I needed a simple way to transport my AR pistol to the range without drawing unnecessary attention. My current hard case felt like overkill for quick trips. Upon unboxing, I was pleasantly surprised by the apparent build quality for the price; the tan PVC material felt reasonably durable, and the stitching seemed solid. The case is lightweight and the magazine pouches a welcome touch.

Compared to a more expensive hard case with custom foam inserts, the NcStar 28″ Subgun AR and AK Pistol Case Tan obviously lacks the same level of protection and customization. However, compared to a basic nylon soft case, it offered more structure and dedicated magazine storage. I ultimately chose this NcStar case because it struck a balance between cost, functionality, and discreet portability. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping it would prove to be a reliable and affordable option for my needs.

Real-World Testing: Putting NcStar 28″ Subgun AR and AK Pistol Case Tan to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the NcStar 28″ Subgun AR and AK Pistol Case Tan was a trip to my local outdoor shooting range. I needed a low-profile way to transport my AR-15 pistol, extra magazines, and some basic tools. The weather was mild, with a slight drizzle, giving me a chance to see how the case handled a bit of moisture.

The NcStar 28″ Subgun AR and AK Pistol Case Tan performed adequately; my AR pistol fit snugly inside, and the magazine pouches held my 30-round magazines securely. The light rain beaded up on the PVC material, suggesting some water resistance, although I wouldn’t submerge it intentionally. The carry handle was comfortable enough for the short walk from my truck to the firing line. There were no immediate issues, but I felt the padding could be a bit thicker for better protection.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the NcStar 28″ Subgun AR and AK Pistol Case Tan has held up reasonably well, but some wear and tear is evident. The tan PVC exterior shows some scuffs and dirt stains from being tossed in the back of my truck. The stitching around the magazine pouches remains intact, but the hook and loop fasteners are starting to show wear, especially on the flaps that get opened and closed frequently.

Cleaning the case is fairly simple; I just wipe it down with a damp cloth. The padding inside has retained its shape, but I’ve noticed some slight compression in areas where the pistol’s sharp edges press against it. Compared to a high-end tactical case, the NcStar case is definitely showing its limitations in long-term durability. However, for the price, it continues to provide a functional and affordable storage solution.

Breaking Down the Features of NcStar 28″ Subgun AR and AK Pistol Case Tan

Specifications

The NcStar 28″ Subgun AR and AK Pistol Case Tan is designed for AR and AK pistols, subguns, and other firearms under 28 inches in overall length. Its external dimensions are 28″ Long x 13″ Height. The case features four external rifle magazine pouches with hook and loop fastener flaps.

The heavy-duty zippers are metal and allow for locking with a small padlock. A padlock is not included. The case is constructed from tough and durable PVC material that is water and chemical resistant. It includes padded carry handle straps and a shoulder sling.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the NcStar 28″ Subgun AR and AK Pistol Case Tan is to safely and discreetly transport and store firearms. It performs this task adequately, though not exceptionally. The padded interior provides a basic level of protection against bumps and scratches.

The magazine pouches are a handy feature, allowing for convenient storage of extra magazines alongside the firearm. The zippers function smoothly and the ability to lock the case adds a measure of security. The case’s biggest weakness is the relatively thin padding, which could be improved for better impact protection. However, the case does meet expectations for a basic storage/transport solution at this price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The NcStar 28″ Subgun AR and AK Pistol Case Tan features a rectangular design, which maximizes space utilization. The tan color is relatively discreet, avoiding the tactical appearance of some other gun cases. The PVC material is lightweight but lacks the premium feel of more expensive fabrics like Cordura nylon.

The padded carry handle is comfortable for short distances, but the shoulder sling is a bit flimsy and not ideal for carrying heavy loads. There’s no real learning curve; it’s a simple case that’s easy to use right out of the box. The interior lacks any internal straps or dividers, which could be useful for securing the firearm and preventing it from shifting during transport.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of the NcStar 28″ Subgun AR and AK Pistol Case Tan is adequate for its price point, but it’s not built for extreme conditions. The PVC material is water-resistant but not waterproof and can be susceptible to punctures and abrasions. The stitching is generally well-done, but the hook and loop fasteners on the magazine pouches are likely to wear out over time.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional wiping down with a damp cloth. Repairing the case would likely be difficult due to the glued and stitched construction, making replacement the more practical option if significant damage occurs. With reasonable care, the case should last for several years of moderate use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The NcStar 28″ Subgun AR and AK Pistol Case Tan does not come with any additional accessories beyond the included shoulder sling. There are no integrated MOLLE webbing or other attachment points for adding external pouches or accessories. Customization options are limited, but some users might choose to add their own internal dividers or padding for a more tailored fit.

The case is compatible with most standard AR and AK pistol magazines. It’s important to note that the magazine pouches are designed for standard-capacity magazines. High-capacity or drum magazines may not fit comfortably.

Pros and Cons of NcStar 28″ Subgun AR and AK Pistol Case Tan