NCStar Double Carbine Case Tan 42″ Review

The NCStar Double Carbine Case Tan 42″ Made a Bold First Impression

The NCStar Double Carbine Case Tan 42″ arrives promising safe transport and organized storage for two rifles and essential shooting gear. NCStar, known for offering budget-friendly tactical accessories, aims to provide a practical solution for transporting firearms without breaking the bank.

I was in the market for a discreet and reliable way to transport my AR-15 and a scoped bolt-action rifle to the range. Standard single cases were cumbersome, and I wanted a more efficient, all-in-one solution. Upon unboxing, the tan PVC material felt robust, and the padding seemed adequate for basic protection. It was significantly lighter than my older hard case, a welcome change.

Compared to a similar-sized Plano hard case and a more expensive Savior Equipment double rifle bag, the NCStar offered a different appeal. The Plano, while providing superior impact resistance, was bulky and drew unwanted attention. The Savior Equipment bag had nicer aesthetics and more premium materials, but came at a significantly higher price point. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; it seemed like a good balance of functionality and affordability, though long-term durability was still a question.

Real-World Testing: Putting NCStar Double Carbine Case Tan 42″ to the Test

First Use Experience

I initially tested the NCStar Double Carbine Case Tan 42″ at my local outdoor shooting range. The range day involved transporting my AR-15, a .22LR rifle, magazines, ammunition, hearing protection, and a small cleaning kit.

The case performed adequately, keeping the rifles secure within their individual compartments. I used it during a mildly dusty day, and I appreciated the case’s ability to keep the firearms relatively clean inside. There were no immediate issues besides slightly tight zipper pulls.

Extended Use & Reliability

After three months of weekly range trips, the NCStar Double Carbine Case Tan 42″ shows signs of wear, but remains functional. The PVC material has scuffed in a few spots, and some stitching around the exterior pockets is starting to fray.

Cleaning is straightforward, as a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth removes most dirt and grime. Compared to my older nylon range bag, the PVC seems less prone to absorbing moisture and odors. However, the zipper pulls still stick occasionally, and I’ve started applying lubricant to ease their movement. Overall, while it hasn’t outperformed higher-end cases in terms of sheer durability, it continues to serve its basic purpose adequately for the price.

Breaking Down the Features of NCStar Double Carbine Case Tan 42″

Specifications

The NCStar Double Carbine Case Tan 42″ boasts the following specifications:

• Accommodates two rifles up to 42 inches in length. This is a crucial specification for users with specific rifle configurations.
• Constructed of heavy-duty PVC material. PVC provides water resistance and moderate abrasion resistance.
• Main compartment is fully padded with 1/2″ closed cell foam padding. The padding offers basic protection against bumps and scratches during transport.
• Heavy duty zippers with metal zipper pulls (padlock compatible). This feature adds a layer of security to prevent unauthorized access.
• Diagonal pockets and hook and loop straps to secure rifles. These elements help prevent the rifles from shifting inside the case during transport.
• Secondary compartment with two zippered compartments and two padded compartments. This provides organized storage for essential accessories like magazines and tools.
• Three exterior pockets with hook and loop fasteners and quick connect buckles. These pockets offer additional storage space for larger items like hearing protection and ammunition boxes.
• Adjustable bungee cording on exterior pockets. The bungee cords allow for customizable storage of various sized items.

These specifications translate to a case designed for basic protection and organization, suitable for transporting rifles and associated gear to and from the range. The PVC construction offers decent weather resistance, while the padding helps prevent cosmetic damage.

Performance & Functionality

The NCStar Double Carbine Case Tan 42″ performs its primary function of transporting rifles adequately. Rifles are held securely within the main compartment thanks to the internal straps and pockets.

The case’s external pockets provide ample storage for magazines, ammunition, and other essential accessories. One notable weakness is the slightly sticky zippers, which require some effort to open and close, especially when the case is fully loaded. While the padding is adequate for preventing scratches, it may not offer sufficient protection against significant impacts. Despite these limitations, it meets expectations for a budget-friendly option.

Design & Ergonomics

The NCStar Double Carbine Case Tan 42″ features a straightforward, functional design. The tan PVC material offers a relatively low-profile appearance.

The weight of the case is manageable, even when fully loaded with two rifles and accessories. The carry handles are adequately padded, providing a comfortable grip for short-distance transport. There’s no shoulder strap included, which would have improved ergonomics for longer carries. The design is intuitive, requiring no real learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The NCStar Double Carbine Case Tan 42″, while functional, raises some concerns about long-term durability. The PVC material is susceptible to scuffs and abrasions.

The stitching around the pockets and zippers appears to be the weakest point, with some fraying observed after only a few months of use. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional wiping with a damp cloth. However, the zippers may require lubrication to maintain smooth operation over time. Based on my experience, I expect the case to last for a few years with regular use, but it may not withstand heavy abuse.

Accessories and Customization Options

The NCStar Double Carbine Case Tan 42″ comes with no additional accessories beyond the integrated storage compartments and securing straps. There are no customization options offered directly by NCStar.

However, the case’s design allows for the addition of aftermarket accessories such as MOLLE pouches attached to the exterior via compatible straps (if you are willing to modify the case to add MOLLE webbing). The internal dimensions are fixed, limiting customization options for the rifle compartments themselves. Overall, customization is limited, focusing primarily on adding external storage capacity.

Pros and Cons of NCStar Double Carbine Case Tan 42″