Plano 50 Count Rifle Ammo Case with Hinged Cover, Dark Gray & Trans Blue Review

Let’s Dive into Plano 50 Count Rifle Ammo Case with Hinged Cover, Dark Gray & Trans Blue

The Plano 50 Count Rifle Ammo Case with Hinged Cover, Dark Gray & Trans Blue is a simple, yet seemingly practical solution for organizing and transporting your rifle ammunition. Plano is a well-known name in the world of storage solutions, and their ammo cases are generally regarded as reliable. This particular model promises to hold up to 50 rounds of your favorite rifle caliber, all encased in a durable, hard-shell plastic construction with a convenient flip-top lid.

My need for this product stemmed from a growing pile of loose ammunition scattered across my reloading bench and range bag. I was tired of fumbling around trying to find the right cartridges and longed for a more organized system. Previously, I’d been using a mix of original cardboard boxes and some older, bulkier ammo cans, neither of which were ideal.

The Plano case arrived in simple packaging, revealing its dark gray body and translucent blue lid. The plastic felt reasonably sturdy, although lighter than some of my existing ammo storage solutions. The hinged lid seemed like a great feature for quick access, and the overall design was compact and stackable, a huge plus for efficient storage.

I considered several other options before settling on the Plano. MTM Case-Gard offers similar products with a slightly more robust feel, and I have several of their larger ammo cans. Ultimately, I chose the Plano because of its compact size, 50-round capacity (which suited my typical range trips), and the appealing hinged lid design, all at an attractive price point.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The case looked good and felt decent in hand, but the lightweight plastic raised some concerns about long-term durability. I was eager to load it up and put it to the test, hoping it would live up to the Plano name.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Plano 50 Count Rifle Ammo Case with Hinged Cover, Dark Gray & Trans Blue to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Plano 50 Count Rifle Ammo Case with Hinged Cover, Dark Gray & Trans Blue at my local outdoor shooting range on a crisp autumn day. I loaded it with .308 Winchester rounds for a day of precision rifle practice. The case easily fit into my range bag and didn’t add noticeable weight.

The conditions were relatively dry, but the range floor was dusty. The flip-top lid proved very convenient for accessing ammo quickly between strings of fire. I appreciated not having to completely remove a lid or fumble with a latch.

The case was easy to use right out of the box. I simply opened the lid, loaded the rounds, and snapped it shut. I experienced no issues with the hinge or latch during that first range session.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Plano case began to show some weaknesses. While the main body remained intact, the plastic hinge started to exhibit signs of stress. Cracks began to appear, especially around the hinge pins.

The durability of the plastic also proved to be a concern. After about six months of regular use, one of the small tabs that secures the latch snapped off. This rendered the case less secure and prone to popping open if jostled.

Cleaning the case was straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth removed most of the dust and grime. However, the cracks in the hinge made it more difficult to clean thoroughly. Compared to my MTM ammo cans, which have endured years of abuse, the Plano case was a disappointment in terms of long-term durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Plano 50 Count Rifle Ammo Case with Hinged Cover, Dark Gray & Trans Blue

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Plano
• Number of Rounds: 50
• Color: Gray/Blue
• Gun Type: Rifle
• Fabric/Material: Hard-Shell Plastic
• Additional Features: Water Resistant

These specifications are important because they define the case’s capacity, compatibility, and intended use. The hard-shell plastic construction is intended to provide basic protection, while the water-resistant design offers some protection against the elements. The 50-round capacity strikes a balance between portability and sufficient storage for a typical range session.

Performance & Functionality

The Plano 50 Count Rifle Ammo Case with Hinged Cover, Dark Gray & Trans Blue performs adequately for basic ammo storage. It keeps rounds organized and contained, preventing them from rattling around in a range bag or storage container. However, its long-term reliability is questionable due to the fragile hinge and latch design.

The case’s strength lies in its ease of use and compact design. The flip-top lid is convenient, and the stackable design saves space. The primary weakness is its durability, as the plastic is prone to cracking and the latch is easily broken. It meets basic expectations for ammo storage, but falls short in terms of longevity.

Design & Ergonomics

The case’s design is simple and functional. The dark gray body and translucent blue lid provide a clear view of the contents, while the hinged lid allows for easy access. The lightweight plastic makes it easy to carry, even when fully loaded.

The ergonomics are straightforward, with no learning curve. The latch is easy to operate, and the case fits comfortably in hand. However, the build quality feels somewhat cheap, and the plastic has a slightly flimsy feel.

Durability & Maintenance

The Plano 50 Count Rifle Ammo Case with Hinged Cover, Dark Gray & Trans Blue’s durability is its weakest point. The thin plastic and fragile hinge are prone to cracking and breaking. With regular use, it is unlikely to last more than a year or two.

Maintenance is simple; the case can be easily wiped down with a damp cloth. However, broken hinges or latches cannot be easily repaired, rendering the case unusable.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Plano 50 Count Rifle Ammo Case with Hinged Cover, Dark Gray & Trans Blue does not come with any accessories. There are no customization options available. The case is a basic, standalone product with no provisions for adding aftermarket components.

Pros and Cons of Plano 50 Count Rifle Ammo Case with Hinged Cover, Dark Gray & Trans Blue

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Who Should Buy Plano 50 Count Rifle Ammo Case with Hinged Cover, Dark Gray & Trans Blue?

The Plano 50 Count Rifle Ammo Case with Hinged Cover, Dark Gray & Trans Blue is perfect for casual shooters who need a basic and inexpensive way to organize and transport their rifle ammunition for occasional range trips. It is also suitable for those who prioritize lightweight and compact storage over long-term durability.

This product is not for serious shooters, hunters, or reloaders who require rugged and reliable ammo storage solutions. Anyone who needs to protect their ammunition from harsh conditions or demands long-lasting durability should skip this product. A must-have modification would be reinforcing the hinge with stronger materials, though this is not a standard option.

Conclusion on Plano 50 Count Rifle Ammo Case with Hinged Cover, Dark Gray & Trans Blue

The Plano 50 Count Rifle Ammo Case with Hinged Cover, Dark Gray & Trans Blue offers a simple and affordable solution for organizing rifle ammunition. However, its flimsy construction and questionable durability make it a short-term solution at best. The price is definitely justified for what it offers initially, but buyers should be aware that it will likely need to be replaced sooner rather than later.

I would cautiously recommend this product to casual shooters on a tight budget who understand its limitations. If you are looking for a durable and long-lasting ammo storage solution, I suggest investing in a more robust option from MTM or another reputable brand. Don’t let loose ammo slow you down, but don’t expect this case to last forever.