Range Bags

[Clay]

What's everyone using for a range bag these days?

I went from the Midway bags to a S.O. Tech Gorilla bag last year, and it's a great system, super high quality, but a bit too big for what I need right now. I'll probably find it a new home soon. The smaller Midway bag is good, but I'd like to have better material, like Cordura nylon. Everyone's gone to polyester these days. I also prefer less padding to reduce bulk - a lot of bags are way too padded for my liking.

[Gio]

I use this and really like it:

http://www.redsgear.com/g-p-s-large-range-bag-black-gps-2014lrb.html?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&scid=scplp305496&sc_intid=305496&gclid=CJjy3PeT0tICFYaEswoddaIPlA

It has organized pockets for everything I need like a stapler, tape, batteries, paper targets, grip spray, safety glasses, parts kit, etc, plus plenty of space for carrying a few hundred rounds of ammo around for a match. It has held up to several years of use so far as well.

[Kyle Reese]

Big fan of the Vertx A-Range bag. Got one for Christmas (yay) and have been putting it thru its paces since then. It's not the most inexpensive unit out there, but it is well thought out, robust and handy.

https://dsgarms.com/vtx5025

[BobM]

I've got a couple of the Dillon range bags that I used to use a lot. Lately I've been using one of the big MTM dry boxes, the one big enough to use as a seat. It's good when I know I'm not going to walk to far from the car to the firing line. My daughter got me an orange one for Christmas the year before last

[Gray222]

I got a 5.11 bag for free from a sale. It works really well.

[Clobbersaurus]

I've used a Hatch Duty bag for years now. No rips, tears or appreciable wear of any kind. It's been soaked wet and loaded so full with ammo and I could barely close it. I can't recommend it enough as a general purpose range Bag.

https://www.amazon.com/Hatch-D1-Black-Patrol-Duty-Black/dp/B0006FRTVW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1489368592&sr=8-1&keywords=Hatch+police+bag

[Andy T]

I use ATS Cobra (original) with a bunch of Molle pouches. I tried going back to a traditional range bag (5.11) and found that it doesn't work for me as well as the back pack. In particularly when it comes to carrying targets (8.5x11 paper).

[karmapolice]

I want one of these-http://www.tuffproducts.com/sentinel-concepts-blaster-bag-pro/

I have a huge 5.11 range bag but for most trips it's too big, I also have a Glock single pistol bag I use the most currently.

[flyrodr]

I use an old camera bag. They're extremely well made, and typically come with a bunch of Velcro'd padded inserts for customizing the inside. They're also pretty expensive . . . luckily though most photographers change bags more than shooters change holsters. If you have a nearby, long established pro camera shop, most have a corner of the store full of used bags, which can be bought at a fraction of the cost of the new ones.

[Clay]

I want one of these-http://www.tuffproducts.com/sentinel-concepts-blaster-bag-pro/

This looks exactly like what I need. Thank you.

[tsf1225]

I am using the 511 Range Qualifier Bag. It's a compact bag but has enough space for everything I need. I am really pleased with it and the quality is very good.

http://www.511tactical.com/range-qualifier-bag.html?color=283

[philpac33]

https://youtu.be/yyjZQ5-RCzE
Coincidentally, I just watched this video about 2 minutes before seeing this thread. This Vertx A-Range would make me happy.

[Totem Polar]

I'm a vertx guy too, but I've been using their edc transit sling:

http://vertx.com/edc-transit-sling

I typically don't take more than 2 pistols and 4 boxes of ammo to the range; the "EDC" part of the bag takes the hardware, and I can throw ammo, plugs, e-muffs and some printed P-F.com targets in the main compartment. I don't like carrying an obvious range bag around my urban environment. To each their own.

[blues]

For a couple of pistols, 8 magazines, some boxes of ammo and various supplies I use an old Bagmaster mini range bag I've had for years and which is still going strong.

If I need to carry more, (other than rifle or shotgun cases), over the years I have found a couple of tool bags from Craftsman and Rubbermaid that have proven to be very useful and don't scream gun whatsoever.

[rd62]

For Christmas my wife bought me a GPS Range Systems "Handgunner" Backpack in Tan. I'd outgrown my last range bag which had zero organization meaning I was having stuff lost or damaged/scuffed up. I like this bag a lot so far. Seems reasonably well made, the organization is nice and each pocket has a visual I'd tag to indicate it's intended contents which makes finding stuff easier. It is easy to carry, has a built-in rain cover, and at least to me doesn't scream "Gun!". I believe she ordered it via Amazon which looking now is a big savings over what I've seen them priced for locally. The one in this link is black, though mine is tan, and I see they are offered in several colors.

https://www.amazon.com/G-P-S-602556-P-Handgunner-Backpack/dp/B00DECL0P0

[orionz06]

I have a Maratac bug out bag, LAPG copies it. Works well. Lots of folks dig the Midway bags but the Vertx is where I'd really be looking, they're stellar and I've debated stealing every one I saw.


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[GyroF-16]

+1 on the GPS Handgunnner backpack. I also got one for Christmas this year. Seems like it's about two thirds the size of the big Midway USA bag that I've been using for years. Yet it still carries everything I need, and it's much easier to throw over my shoulder to walk into the range, with targets in my other hand.


For Christmas my wife bought me a GPS Range Systems "Handgunner" Backpack in Tan. I'd outgrown my last range bag which had zero organization meaning I was having stuff lost or damaged/scuffed up. I like this bag a lot so far. Seems reasonably well made, the organization is nice and each pocket has a visual I'd tag to indicate it's intended contents which makes finding stuff easier. It is easy to carry, has a built-in rain cover, and at least to me doesn't scream "Gun!". I believe she ordered it via Amazon which looking now is a big savings over what I've seen them priced for locally. The one in this link is black, though mine is tan, and I see they are offered in several colors.

https://www.amazon.com/G-P-S-602556-P-Handgunner-Backpack/dp/B00DECL0P0

[martin_j001]

After using a cheap, no-name gun store range bag for the past many years, upgrading to the Vertx A-Range bag was a treat. I'm quite happy with this bag. There are times I feel I could get away with something smaller, but for the most part, it works quite well for me--whether completely loaded down or with the bare essentials in it and room to spare.

[TGS]

I use this; it's a very affordable option with lots of room and organization opportunities:
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/939221689/midwayusa-competition-range-bag-system

I carry ammo in it as well (300-400 rounds of 9mm, + 100 rounds of 5.56 sometimes) and it started tearing in certain places, but hasn't given up the ghost yet. I ripped one of the zippers recently yanking on the bag while it was caught on something. So, it's done pretty well over the last 7 years considering its price. I have a smaller Uncle Mikes range bag (http://www.unclemikes.com/tactical/gear-bags-briefcases/side-armor-range-bag) issued by work that I'll probably start using once this one becomes completely unserviceable.

[bowzette]

After usual O.C. study I just ordered the GPS Handgunner Backpack.

[Bobcat]

I've bought quite a few of the super cheap Harbor Freight tool bags.
With a coupon they go for $5 to $7.
I have so many that there is no real sense of organization to them, and I've not gotten around to labeling them by caliber, firearm, etc.

[pangloss]

I recently bought the Vertx A-range bag. I like it, but it seems bulky given the amount of stuff it can carry. Initially I didn't like it as much as I thought I would, but I'm warming up to it. Being able to keep ammo in the little pull-out drawers is definitely the stand out feature. I bought a couple of GoRuck pistol caddies to go in it. The Vertx replaced the GunMate Range Bag (https://www.amazon.com/GunMate-Range-Removable-Hook-Dividers/dp/B0047T4J20/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1489453091&sr=8-1&keywords=gunmate+range+bag) that I'd been using for 15 years. (Yeah, I know I should go to the range more, because the bag shouldn't have lasted that long.) The GunMate is small, and it's hard to see things inside, but I really liked it. For Christmas I got a US Peacekeeper Mini-range Bag (https://www.amazon.com/US-PeaceKeeper-P21104-Range-Purple/dp/B001QDR2DS/ref=sr_1_20?ie=UTF8&qid=1489453166&sr=8-20&keywords=pistol%2Brange%2Bbag&th=1). I can fit everything I need in this bag for taking one pistol to the public range, but it's tight. (I don't use a shot timer there because they don't like my holster and won't let me raise the muzzle of the gun to reload.)

Most importantly, for people who are interested in Vertx, Mike Seeklander's American Warrior podcast websight has a 40% off code for Vertx products, which is why I was able to afford such a fancy bag.

[DMF13]

I'm a cheapskate, so I use this (in Coyote Brown):
http://www.lapolicegear.com/lapg-operator-patrol-bag.html

It's big enough to carry what I need for a USPSA match, and qualifications at work, with a little extra room for a few extra things I haul around for when I instruct at work.

My previous bag was black, but I got tired of looking for dark items inside a dark bag. So that's why I went with Coyote Brown.

[MichaelD]

I use these: Craftsman 10" and 12" tool bags (http://m.sears.com/craftsman-10-in-and-12-in-tool-bag/p-00940558000P?sid=IDx01192011x000001&gclid=Cj0KEQjwhpnGBRDKpY-My9rdutABEiQAWNcslICJOHM7Czybr3TCxIkX0mSLIRSpInXkA UMbaC9GUkUaAlU_8P8HAQ&gclsrc=aw.ds).

I use the 12" as my range bag for my M&P9 and M&P9c, and can carry about 16 magazines and 300 rounds of ammo along with my muffs and glasses. The 10" bag gets used for ammo and pistol when I take my M&P22 along. The pockets are handy for things like a multitool, oil and bandages and such.

[RJ]

I've been using this LA Police Gear bag for the last 18 months or so, $21.95:

http://www.lapolicegear.com/tabaoutbag.html

Pro: Cheap, fairly well made, hasn't broken or failed in fairly frequent use. The outside velcro cover pockets are useful. Seems to hold everything I need for a trip to the range, or in a match. I like it.

Con: A bit smaller than I might have preferred; if I carry my ear pro inside the bag, it gets a bit crowded. The OD Green color is the same inside, it would have been nice if it was lined with white cloth. Although I don't know of any range bags that are lined with lighter color.

ETA - The Coyote would probably be a better choice, as was mentioned above.

[blues]

I use these: Craftsman 10" and 12" tool bags (http://m.sears.com/craftsman-10-in-and-12-in-tool-bag/p-00940558000P?sid=IDx01192011x000001&gclid=Cj0KEQjwhpnGBRDKpY-My9rdutABEiQAWNcslICJOHM7Czybr3TCxIkX0mSLIRSpInXkA UMbaC9GUkUaAlU_8P8HAQ&gclsrc=aw.ds).

I use the 12" as my range bag for my M&P9 and M&P9c, and can carry about 16 magazines and 300 rounds of ammo along with my muffs and glasses. The 10" bag gets used for ammo and pistol when I take my M&P22 along. The pockets are handy for things like a multitool, oil and bandages and such.

Good to see another Craftsman aficionado. Mine is a green heavy duty cordura jobber with both open and netting pockets on the outside and compartments on the inside. Really a great bag for firearms, tools and / or any other kind of gear.

I don't know if Rubbermaid still has similar style bags available but if so they are worth checking out as well.

[octagon]

I've bought quite a few of the super cheap Harbor Freight tool bags.
With a coupon they go for $5 to $7.
I have so many that there is no real sense of organization to them, and I've not gotten around to labeling them by caliber, firearm, etc.

I was a little embarrassed to jump in but I use the Harbor Freight toolboxes for my range stuff. I haven't had them a long time but they are pretty solid. They run $24 for 4 of them in 4 different sizes. I use the two large ones as the smaller ones are not needed and more flimsy. I like that they are hard sided to protect gear inside better and they have a locking hole to secure them with a padlock. I also like that the three largest boxes have two small partitioned storage cases built into but removable form the lids. Since I use one box for range gear(Gun,ammo,eye and ear pro,stapler target etc..) and the next size down for tools,cleaning equipment and repairs it works out well for those small parts and accessories.

This is the one I got

http://www.harborfreight.com/tool-storage/tool-boxes/4-piece-nesting-toolbox-set-3721.html

[JAD]

I have the Midway Competition bag but rarely use it. The one that rides around in my trunk is this:
https://www.maxpedition.com/store/pc/Compact-Range-Bag-4p1583.htm

I really like it. It's tough enough to haul my usual 400 rounds of ammunition, and will hold all of the things I need for a range session.

[JM Campbell]

Been running a ishot backpack for awhile. It's sturdy and holds a lot of gear. Ammo area at bottom of bag is a great http://www.commonwealthrescue.com/mobile/Product.aspx?id=38192




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[LSP552]

Eagle Industries Deluxe Pro Shooter bag. I really like the bag. Lots of room and useful pouch set up.

http://www.eagleindustries.com/products/detail.aspx?id=34

[TCB]

I think alot of these bags are copies of the excellent Shooters Connection tournament pro range bag. It is an excellent bag and is built to last. I've had mine for a few years and it shows no wear. The only weak point I've found was the metal buckle on the shoulder strap, I had one break as I picked it up when I had 50-60+ lbs of gear loaded in the bag. I replaced it with a carabiner and it has had no issues. The other buckle has held strong.

[heyscooter]

Been running a ishot backpack for awhile. It's sturdy and holds a lot of gear. Ammo area at bottom of bag is a great http://www.commonwealthrescue.com/mobile/Product.aspx?id=38192

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I have one of their range bags. Real shame they stopped making these, mine is built to last. It has some great features that came with it like mag and pistol sleeves as well as one of those tearaway loose round holder thingies.

[mmc45414]

I use these: Craftsman 10" and 12" tool bags (http://m.sears.com/craftsman-10-in-and-12-in-tool-bag/p-00940558000P?sid=IDx01192011x000001&gclid=Cj0KEQjwhpnGBRDKpY-My9rdutABEiQAWNcslICJOHM7Czybr3TCxIkX0mSLIRSpInXkA UMbaC9GUkUaAlU_8P8HAQ&gclsrc=aw.ds)


Good to see another Craftsman aficionado.

I also use the Lowe's version of these bags. The big ones will hold about Qty400 12g shells, the small one will hold about Qty300 20g shells. I see the big advantage as not looking like gun gear.

Along those lines I have been using a Pelican case. Just had to unload the truck in a downpour and being waterproof is a nice advantage.
14974

Not totally sure this is the ultimate solution, but my plan that is still being formulated involves keeping one of these (waterproof) toolboxes in the truck with all of the "Might Need" gear
14975
and using the Pelican for the stuff that needs to go in and out of the house every week.

The tricky part is it is really convenient to leave the tailgate unlocked most of the time, so there is a balance point of what I could/should leave in there semi-secured under the BakFlip cover.

[OldRunner/CSAT Neighbor]

[QUOTE=JM Campbell;577063]Been running a ishot backpack for awhile. It's sturdy and holds a lot of gear. Ammo area at bottom of bag is a great http://www.commonwealthrescue.com/mobile/Product.aspx?id=38192


As I continue this aging thing, my minimalism also grows. Shoot 3G, steel & USPSA 1 ea. per month & started using a spare Vertx Gamut BP I was going to sell.

Never got on board w/ the 3G gun buggys/strollers + you gotta load 'em before/unload 'em after the match. The Gamut is loaded the nite before w/ mags, ammo, IFAK, H2O etc & the rifle is slung on 1 shoulder, other shoulder has my slung gauge & the BP is carried 'tween them like it's designed.

At steel & USPSA matches I only sling the Gamut over one shoulder & my hands remain free for the scoring tablet or whatever. Unintended consequences are I get *some* cardio/load bearing work but that's what the gym etc. is for, the other 6 days of the week.

[NGP]

http://www.larue.com/larue-range-bag

This is the only range bag I've ever owned so my experience is not very diverse but it does everything I could ask and has held up for the last 8 years of weekly range visits and 2-3 classes a year.