Range Bag

[ASH556]

Not sure if this is the best place to post this. I asked a few years ago for a "the range" section to post about best practices for range gear from bags, to timers, to targets and the other support gear that helps us train better.

Anyway,
nearly 20 years ago I had a CED Deluxe range bag that was stolen out of my truck, including a Glock 19 and a Ruger Single Six. Of course they recovered the Single Six, but not the Glock. Anyway, I digress. I never did get another good range bag after that. I used a Camelbak backpack for awhile to a limited degree of success and then for the last several years have used the bag shown in the pic below. I thought it was made by London Bridge, but not sure. I have two of them, one as a range bag and the other as a "go" bag stuffed with mags on the outside and med and other short-term support gear on the indside. As a range bag, it's reasonably successful and has lots of internal organization, but its not quite large enough to hold a pistol, ammo, or targets, and so I end up with the bag over my shoulder and hands full.

I think I want a larger, obese, American Sized range bag and I think I want that to be a CED XL bag with pistol sleeves, mag pockets, room for ammo, eyes, ears, targets, etc.

Feedback?

Current Range Bag:

https://pistol-forum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=31372&d=1539715077

[El Cid]

I've tried several over the years. Some obscenely expensive from brands like VertX. For the last 6 or so years I've been extremely happy with the Midway USA bag. I am able to keep a bunch of mags, electronic ear pro, spare eye pro, a couple pistols, ammo, target tape, batteries, shot timer, various tools, etc. in the bag with no issue. I even use one of the end zippered pockets for med supplies.

This is an updated version of mine. Mine doesn't lay flat on the side with mag pockets. This appears to be better. It comes with an ammo bag that has a mesh bottom, a couple zippered pistol pouches, and a center section that can pull out - I use this for ammo most of the time.
https://www.midwayusa.com/product/939221689?pid=638531 $69

A similar version has AR mag pockets in place of the pistol mag pockets. It also has MOLLE on one side, but in my experience range bags get heavy quickly so I don't see myself using those.
https://www.midwayusa.com/product/939343130?pid=765267 $69 (the grey is on clearance for $43)

If you want to flex on the poors, this is very similar but runs $154
https://www.first-spear.com/sherpa-bundle

[backtrail540]

I've used this midway bag for close to a decade. It's held up great. I've got it stuffed with more stuff than i generally need but lug it around anyway. I also have their smaller rifle bag that I use for special use (rifle stuff, steel challenge, etc...where I want a specific set of items only). They're cheap enough that I wouldn't care if it needed replaced but mine has plenty of life left in it.

https://www.midwayusa.com/product/939221689?pid=638531

https://i.postimg.cc/sx0YgK4r/20220415-150538.jpg (https://postimg.cc/bSkD6x5C)

Current inventory as of grabbing it just now - magazines, random backstraps, screwdrivers, boresnake, mag pouches, timer, ears, backup ears, cones for yardage, ammo, b8's, paper plates, binder for range notes, binder for drills/odd targets, 1" circle stickers, 2" circle stickers, tourniquet, lube, spare batteries for ears/optics/timer, stapler, staples, 3x5 cards, 4x6 cards, grease, screwdrivers, neelde oiler, pens, allen keys, pasters x2, spare muffs, bag of plugs x2, spare eyepro. That's what i can see without digging much.

Over the years I've lost a single zipper pull and scorched the top using it for a rest and not being as mindful as I should have. Solid for $70.

[Flamingo]

I have this range bag (https://www.tacticaltailor.com/competitionshootersbag.aspx) and I like it a lot, but I didn't pay $250 for it. I think I got it when they were at the old location and I paid around $120.

It is a great bag, but it is easy to over load it and it becomes too heavy to be easy to carry.

[vcdgrips]

If Made in the USA is driving the train:

175ish to 275 ish
https://lynxdefense.com/range-bags/

160 ish
https://elitesurvival.com/collections/range-bags/products/loadout-range-bag

150ish
https://www.larue.com/products/larue-range-bag/#panel1


Having said that, the Midway USA stuff, though made in China, far exceeds the intersection of quality/performance/value. They are big enough and organized enough that you can get them loaded up to be quite heavy. The referenced CED XL bag and the Midway bag look a lot alike.

I have had mine for going on 20 years, I have a loose seam or two but it remains my go to Glock 34/35 pistol bag. It stays loaded with the following:
G34
G35
6 mags each
cleaning kit
boo boo kit
FAK
IWB
OWB
Range Holster
Range Belt
ball cap
kerchief
mag pouches
eyepro x2
earpro x2
multitool
sharpies
8 inch circle
3x 5 piece of wood
shooting gloves
extra batteries
100 rd per gun
flashlight
headlamp

[Casey]

My first range bag was the LaRue Range Bag, which I still have and use on occasion, but my go-to since 2015 has been the Vertx A-Range Bag (now discontinued and replaced by the very similar COF Heavy Range Bag (https://vertx.com/cof-heavy-range-bag)).

I've gone through several different iterations of hauling gear to the range, but this bag has been a core part of it and I have no plans to change it. The garage feature with the two ammo caddies is my favorite part of the bag. I'll typically load up one caddy with loaded mags and the other with loose rounds. The main bag stays behind while I take the caddy with loaded mags downrange with me. The upper deck holds an IFAK, eyes and ears, a multitool with spare bits and sight adjustment tools, liquid chalk, de-lead wipes, and a few odds and ends like spare fiber optic rods. The slip pocket on the opposite side of the bag holds a bottle of oil and 1-2 pistols (themselves contained in some cheap US Peacekeeper sleeves (https://www.amazon.com/US-PeaceKeeper-P21013-Pistol-Large/dp/B00R3MXRGM/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=us+peacekeeper+pistol+case&qid=1650054880&sprefix=us+pece%2Caps%2C98&sr=8-2) I bought on Amazon). The zippered pockets inside the garage area hold a boo-boo kit, spare UpLULA, foam earplugs, and a couple single-use samples of oil.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52007369240_632767bfbd_b.jpg

Supplementing that is a 5-gallon bucket that holds consumables like repair centers, spray glue, tape, staple gun, and markers, as well as disc cones and my shot timer. That goes downrange and usually sits at the base of the target stand for easy access when marking targets. Speaking of targets, I use a drafting tube (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07TN39Y58/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1) to hold rolled-up targets.

Those three things always go to the range with me when I'm practicing on my own. If I'm going to a class, I ditch the bucket and the target tube. If I'm shooting rifle, I add a rifle case and transport loaded mags in an MTM can (https://www.amazon.com/MTM-Tactical-Magazine-Storage-TMC15/dp/B00HVDFSQ0/ref=sr_1_11?keywords=mtm+ammo+can&qid=1650055385&s=sporting-goods&sprefix=mtm+%2Csporting%2C92&sr=1-11). If shooting from a duty rig instead of concealment, that usually comes along in an ASO bag (https://www.refactortactical.com/collections/tactical-bags/products/advanced-special-operations-bag?variant=36903765514) from RE Factor Tactical. I sometimes used that bag as a standalone range bag when shooting at work where everything was provided by the range at the plant, including the weapons and ammo—I would just crossload a few essentials like eye and ear protection from the Vertx bag.

Over the years, I've tried a couple different things. At one point I thought it would be great to have a single huge bag for ease of loading up to go to the range, but that turned out not to be particularly efficient as I had three different shooting scenarios, each with their own unique requirements (self-supported solo practice, class, and work-supported quals). I tried the rolling Pelican case that some are fond of, but couldn't get it arranged quite to my liking. Before the bucket and drafting tube came along, I tried a Rubbermaid Action Packer to hold targets and consumables, but it was a pain to tote down to the target stands, where I actually needed it, and to be big enough to fit rolled targets, it had enough space that encouraged overpacking. At this point, I've figured out that a modular approach works best for me, as I can pick and choose which of my support gear I need based on what kind of shooting I'm doing. Ask me again in a year and I'll probably have something different going on, though...

[bofe954]

I always thought the midway usa bag was a copy of the shooters connection bag-

https://www.shootersconnectionstore.com/Shooters-Connection-Tournament-Series-Shooting-Bag-PRO-II-P4512.aspx

[Maca]

I've been happy with my First Speak Skirmished for several years now. The AR compartment works well for large targets.

https://www.first-spear.com/skirmisher-firearms-training-bag?childSku=500-11-00027-5001-00

[JCN]

Backpacks for me, leaves hands free and shoulders undamaged.

[Jared]

I’ve been running one of those MidwayUSA bags for over 15 years and never had an issue. I love that thing. If I ever do bust it, I’ll buy another.

[pangloss]

I'm a big Vertx fan. I bought a their larger bag and used it for a year or two. It's a great bag, but larger than I need for a one pistol practice session. I bought the smaller Vertx bag, and it's perfect for shooting ~150 rounds through my practice gun. These two are set up as duplicate bags, except that I only have on shot timer. If I'm shooting more than one pistol or going to a class or match, I use the large bag. Vertx runs 25-30% off sales several times during the year. If you want one of their bags, definitely hold out for a sale.

I've also got a smaller, pared down bag that lives in the trunk of my car. This one is made by Savior (https://aimsurplus.com/savior-specialist-pistol-case-fde/). It has the minimum stuff I'd need for an impromptu trip to the range with my carry gun (staple gun, eye and ear pro, mags, ammo, marker). I can't remember if Savior makes larger bags. The one I have is still new, but it seems like a great value thus far.

Large targets also live in my trunk in a tube.

EDIT:. https://aimsurplus.com/savior-equipment-specialist-range-bag-w-3-pistol-inserts-odg/

Sent from my moto g power (2021) using Tapatalk

[JAD]

I love the Maxpedition bag — got one in 14 and stopped using my bigger Midway bags. Tough, holds shape well, and carries all I need.
Maxpedition Compact Range Bag (Khaki) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004V2M164/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_CYVMNBGPR1MJYXRSF7YD

[jeep45238]

Does anybody have experience with the backpack styles out there by CED? It looks like it would address the biggest complaints I have of the duffle styles (shoulder/weight distribution), with air-port luggage for smooth floors and heavy loads.

https://www.cedhk.com/ced-elite-series-trolley-backpack

The rifle carry part is convenient as well, if used as a backpack.

[HCM]

I’ve used a standard Tactical Tailor back pack as my basic range bags for the past several years.

Like Casey I have different needs for different situations - shooting at work, shooting on my own and matches.

The back pack works well for work and matches where targets etc are provided.

For shooting on my own I add an old patrol bag with support equipment targets, spray glue, paint etc.

I’ve previously used a 5.11 large range bag but found it made me want to carry too much stuff. I also tried the Vertx range bag but never warmed up to the layout.

I was looking hard at the new Safariland range bag because it is convertible between range bag an backpack formats. The back pack option being the main draw for matches and “walk in” type ranges.

https://safariland.com/products/4560-convertible-range-bag

I was recently issued a very nice High Ground Gear range bag. It’s clearly high quality but the layout is reminiscent of the 5.11 bag. This might make me give in and get a collapsible wagon for matches…..

https://highgroundgear.com/products/enhanced-range-bag

[shootist26]

I used a Midway USA compact range bag for 10 years before the zipper failed. Replaced with a Competitive Edge Dynamics (CED) professional range bag. I like the CED more because it is in between a MidwayUSA compact and regular range bag in size. I like that the top flap is fully zippered, rather than the zipper/velcro flap style of the MidwayUSA. And the CED is more rigid than the MidwayUSA.

[Casey]

Vertx runs 25-30% off sales several times during the year. If you want one of their bags, definitely hold out for a sale.
Oh, I forgot to mention that in my post. Seems like just about every trainer and social media influencer has a Vertx 25% off code active year-round... You probably don't even need to wait for a sale. And for those who qualify for ExpertVoice, they're currently 30% off.

[TCB]

The Shooters Connection bag that was previously posted is the best full size range bag on the market. I also have the small version they seem to not be making anymore and it is also excellent and fits under the seat in-front of you as a carry on on commercial flights. You can also get extra zippered top inner bags for the full size one that are perfect for setting up for different divisions or gun types. I’ve had my full size one for 8 years or so and it has been very heavily used and is still solid. Highly recommended.

[Chuck Whitlock]

I use a GPS backpack, which is for the most part pretty handy.

https://www.amazon.com/G-P-S-Handgunner-Backpack-Black-GPS-1711BP/dp/B00A5C17GO/ref=sr_1_5?crid=1WQSZMSXUP43K&keywords=gps%2Brange%2Bbag&qid=1650223792&sprefix=gps%2Brange%2Bbag%2Caps%2C97&sr=8-5&th=1

If I'm taking more than a few large paper or card stock targets, I use a poster tube:

https://www.amazon.com/Juvale-Blueprint-Document-Poster-Strap/dp/B01DLYJ2G4/ref=sr_1_4?crid=1RCWSSB12AANO&keywords=blueprint+tube&qid=1650224026&s=arts-crafts&sprefix=blueprint+%2Carts-crafts%2C88&sr=1-4

And if I'm taking more boxes of ammo than will fit in the backpack, I use one or more of the cheap plastic ammo cans that I buy on a whim when I'm at Harbor Freight.

[beenalongtime]

I do recommend you check any classes you are going to take.
The class for our CC permit (needed for crossing state lines, live on the border), they wanted ammo separate from the range bag. It doesn't matter if you have experience, or are a beginner.
So my original range bag, was an Amazon purchase, that I wanted to look similar to my camera bag (lots of people were used to seeing me with my inexpensive camera and its bag). So because of that I bought an Osage River, smaller range bag.
I bought 50 caliber metal ammo cans for ammo storage at home, and decided to get the MTM plastic four in ones (tend to take multiple calibers to the range), that I would put ammo and loaded magazines in that, to keep them separate from the guns. (lighter weight then the metal ones)

I also picked up one of the GPS rolling backpacks, to have some options.

Unfortunately, since that time, my range time has gone down (a death happened, running a business that I am taking over, six to seven days a week).

[4RNR]

I find Vertx to bee too expensive to bring stuff to and from range.

Mine looks kinda like this and cost $35.

https://www.google.com/amp/s/botach.com/amp/longfri-patrol-range-bags/

Prior to this I've been happily using my highschool backpack and its been a very long time since I was in highschool. Bringing some guns and some ammo isn't exactly packing for a month long vacation

Sent from my moto z4 using Tapatalk

[RevolverRob]

I bought one of these recently:

https://www.511tactical.com/range-qualifier-bag.html

It's a nice bag with enough space for a couple of handguns and a few hundred rounds of ammo.

I prefer a smaller bag to a larger one, because I want to limit how much stuff I take. Keeps me from spreading my focus too much.

The removable "ammo tote" has padded zipper pockets that perfectly hold pistols (including full size guns) on either side of the ammo bucket.

That said, I like the idea of a poster tube for holding targets...hmm.

[Casey]

That said, I like the idea of a poster tube for holding targets...hmm.
The nice thing about the one I use is that being rectangular, it doesn't roll around when set on a flat surface.

[mmc45414]

The big bags just seem to get really heavy and bulky, several years ago I transitioned to a Pelican 1500 (https://www.amazon.com/Pelican-1500-Case-16-75X11-18X6-12In-Blk/dp/B000E9PFGQ/ref=sr_1_4?crid=1JYHW36045FIG&keywords=Pelican+1500&qid=1650327013&sprefix=pelican+1500%2Caps%2C111&sr=8-4).
It is kinda small, but enough for the six magazines, extra ammo, a little kit bag with all of the essentials like the timer and batteries and tools and brass bags, plus my staple gun.
It is easier to carry by my side, and is durable, and is waterproof if it is in the back of the pickup (even with the cover it gets wet).
There is room for a second pistol (am typically wearing the one I will shoot, if I need more room I start tossing things into one of those toolbags. Or if I am shooting a long gun I have a couple Midway cases that are for two guns, there is a divider and pockets, so there is room in it for an extra couple handguns.

ETA: While it obviously looks like it could be something valuable it doesn't obviously look like it contains guns. There are probably people that would steal some guns but wouldn't steal tools. And if all it has in it are magazines and ammo, it is nice and watertight if I leave it in the truck overnight.

[ASH556]

Thanks for the feedback everyone. I would’ve bought the Shooters Connection bag, but they were out of everything but pink. Ended up grabbing the Midway Competition bag and I dig it. Does absolutely everything I wanted. Thanks for the feedback everyone!

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