The Plano AW2 All Weather 2 Pistol Case Polymer Black Made a Bold First Impression
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen my fair share of pistol cases. When the Plano AW2 All Weather 2 Pistol Case Polymer Black arrived, I was immediately drawn to its promise of rugged protection. This case isn’t just about transporting firearms; it’s about safeguarding your investment from the elements and the rigors of travel.
My need was simple: I needed a reliable, lockable, and weather-resistant case to transport my handguns to and from the range, and occasionally on hunting trips. I’d grown tired of flimsy cases that offered minimal protection and questionable security. Unboxing the Plano AW2 All Weather 2 Pistol Case Polymer Black, I was impressed by its solid construction and the reassuring “click” of the latches. The textured polymer shell felt durable, and the inclusion of a pressure release valve hinted at serious weatherproofing capabilities.
I considered a few other options. There were some generic hard cases on Amazon and a couple of more expensive Pelican cases. I chose the Plano AW2 All Weather 2 Pistol Case Polymer Black because it seemed to strike the perfect balance between rugged durability, essential features like the pressure release valve, and affordability. Initial impressions were good. It felt much more substantial than other similarly priced cases. I was excited to put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Plano AW2 All Weather 2 Pistol Case Polymer Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Plano AW2 All Weather 2 Pistol Case Polymer Black was a trip to my local shooting range. The weather was typical for late fall – damp and a bit chilly. The case easily accommodated two of my pistols with room to spare for magazines and small tools. It handled the bumpy ride in the back of my truck without any issues.
The Plano AW2 All Weather 2 Pistol Case Polymer Black performed admirably. The Dri-Loc seal seemed to do its job. My pistols remained dry and protected from the damp air. I found the latches easy to operate, even with gloves on. I did appreciate the peace of mind knowing that my firearms were secure and protected from the elements.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Plano AW2 All Weather 2 Pistol Case Polymer Black has proven to be a reliable companion. I’ve used it in various conditions, from sunny days at the range to damp and muddy hunting trips. The exterior shows minimal signs of wear, a testament to the quality of the polymer.
The Plano AW2 All Weather 2 Pistol Case Polymer Black is easy to maintain. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to remove dirt and grime. It consistently outperformed the cheaper soft cases I used previously. The peace of mind knowing my firearms are secure and protected is invaluable.
Breaking Down the Features of Plano AW2 All Weather 2 Pistol Case Polymer Black
Specifications
The Plano AW2 All Weather 2 Pistol Case Polymer Black is constructed from rugged, industrial-strength polymer. It features a continuous Dri-Loc seal, creating a watertight and dust-proof barrier. The case has heavy-duty, dual-stage lockable latches for added security. It also includes a built-in pressure release valve to equalize pressure during altitude changes or temperature fluctuations.
These specifications are crucial for protecting valuable firearms. The Dri-Loc seal ensures that moisture and dust stay out, preventing corrosion and damage. The lockable latches provide peace of mind, deterring unauthorized access. The pressure release valve is particularly important for air travel, preventing the case from becoming damaged or difficult to open.
Performance & Functionality
The Plano AW2 All Weather 2 Pistol Case Polymer Black excels at its primary function: protecting firearms. It’s well-designed interior provides ample space for two handguns and accessories. The case’s rugged construction and weather-resistant features offer peace of mind in various conditions.
One area that could be improved is the interior padding. While adequate, denser foam could offer even greater protection. Overall, the Plano AW2 All Weather 2 Pistol Case Polymer Black meets and even exceeds expectations for a case in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Plano AW2 All Weather 2 Pistol Case Polymer Black features a simple yet effective design. The textured polymer exterior provides a secure grip, even when wet. The case’s weight is manageable, making it easy to carry.
There’s no complex learning curve. Anyone can easily use this case. It is intuitive to open, close, and lock.
Durability & Maintenance
The Plano AW2 All Weather 2 Pistol Case Polymer Black is built to last. The rugged polymer construction can withstand significant impacts and abrasions. With proper care, this case should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal. Cleaning can be done with a damp cloth. This ease of maintenance makes it a practical choice for frequent use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Plano AW2 All Weather 2 Pistol Case Polymer Black doesn’t come with many included accessories. However, its interior is easily customizable with aftermarket foam inserts. The case is compatible with most standard-sized padlocks for added security.
While Plano doesn’t offer specific accessories for this model, the standard design allows for easy integration with third-party options. This gives users the freedom to tailor the case to their specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Plano AW2 All Weather 2 Pistol Case Polymer Black
Pros
- Rugged and durable polymer construction.
- Watertight Dri-Loc seal protects against moisture and dust.
- Heavy-duty, dual-stage lockable latches for enhanced security.
- Built-in pressure release valve for air travel.
- Affordable price point.
Cons
- Interior foam padding could be denser.
- No included accessories for internal organization.
Who Should Buy Plano AW2 All Weather 2 Pistol Case Polymer Black?
The Plano AW2 All Weather 2 Pistol Case Polymer Black is perfect for shooters, hunters, and anyone who needs to transport their handguns safely and securely. It’s also ideal for those living in areas with harsh weather conditions. It also will be a good fit for those who fly with their firearms.
Those looking for a case with pre-cut foam inserts or extensive organizational features might want to consider other options. Those on a very tight budget might find cheaper cases, but they will sacrifice durability and weather resistance.
Conclusion on Plano AW2 All Weather 2 Pistol Case Polymer Black
The Plano AW2 All Weather 2 Pistol Case Polymer Black is a solid and reliable pistol case that offers excellent value for money. It provides ample protection from the elements and the rigors of travel, making it a worthwhile investment for any gun owner. The price is certainly justified given the level of protection and security it provides.
I would definitely recommend the Plano AW2 All Weather 2 Pistol Case Polymer Black to anyone looking for a dependable and affordable pistol case. Don’t risk damaging your valuable firearms with flimsy cases. Instead, invest in the Plano AW2 All Weather 2 Pistol Case Polymer Black and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your guns are safe and secure.