For many gun enthusiasts, a bag that can keep all of their weapons and other essentials is a must for shooting practice. There are people who invest in a quality range bag while some prefer other types of bags, the backpack being a popular choice.
However, experts often suggest that gun enthusiasts should invest in a bag that is specifically designed to hold firearms and their accessories. When it comes to the range vs. backpack subject, gun owners have their own opinions on the matter. This article will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each kind of carrier.
Range Bags
The range bag comes in a broad selection of shapes, sizes, styles and colors. There are bags that are designed from coated polyester which makes them water-resistant while some are made from canvas, nylon and leather materials. There are also metal boxes and plastic models available.
A range bag has several compartments which make carrying and finding a selection of items easier for users. It has exterior pockets which serve as quick-access compartments for smaller items. Users can keep their downsized essentials in these pockets.
A good range bag has durable handles which will perfectly complement a bag that is made from hardwearing material. It is suggested that consumers look for a bag with excellent handles and materials since guns are not exactly lightweight items.
One advantage of the range bag is that it includes separately zippered pockets and Velcro sections for the items the user carries. Hence you will know exactly where those items are at all time. These pockets are often cushioned in order to safeguard fragile articles.
The padding serves to protect items from knocking against each other. There are also models that have pockets with elastic bands on them to hold smaller items in place.
Backpacks
Let us continue with the range bag vs. backpack matter. More often than not, some gun enthusiasts prefer hiking backpacks to store their weapons. These days due to technological advancements, backpacks are now lighter, more durable and more comfortable to carry all day.
There are also individuals who choose military backpacks due to the storage and organization features they include. Military backpacks are durable and are designed to tolerate harsh conditions.
They are also easy to organize and have the capability to fasten utility packs, magazine pouches, and accessories right on the pack. However, one drawback of using military backpacks is their heaviness.
Firearms are already heavy so why take along another heavy bag? Hiking backpacks are a lighter option but they do not have the ample storage and organization options that military ones have.
Which One is Better?
For average and casual shooters, a range bag is something that will accommodate their needs. The bag will be able to safeguard the gear and provide accessibility and organization all at the same time. However, if you are involved in tactical training courses or undergoing movement training, you may benefit more from a backpack that is designed for tactical use.
While accessing things in a faster, more convenient manner can prove to be a challenge at times with backpacks, a tactical backpack will be able to provide users convenience while performing tactical work.
It is also suggested that gun enthusiasts should not purchase a bag that is larger than they need. Range bags are often predisposed to being filled with lots of items regardless of how big it is. Hence you should practice restraint since some of us can get a little size-happy here.
It will benefit you more if you opt for a small or medium range bag that is capable of containing all of your items instead of a bag that can fit a whole shooting range.
So to end the range bag vs. backpack debate, what a user will choose is something that will depend on the kind of gun or tactical activity that they often do or plan on doing.
It is also important to base what you choose on your needs and preferences so you will end up with a product that will easily accommodate all of your essentials.
Range bags are available in stores that sell firearms and gun accessories. You can also buy one online. They are available in a range of styles and prices too so you have lots of variety to pick from.