Need a range bag to carry ammo, eye/ear protection, tools, and maybe a handgun or two?
We’ve tried out the most popular ones…
That span size, budget, and material. By the end…you’ll know the perfect bag for your range trips.
Summary of Our Top Picks
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Best for One PistolSavior Equipment Specialist Pistol Case
Great for one pistol, six mags, and some extra equipment.
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Editor's PickSavior Equipment Mini Range Bag
Great for several pistols, accessories, and even rifle mags.
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Best BackpackSavior Equipment SEMA Backpack
Great backpack to hold multiple handguns and tons of extra mags/gear.
Best Range Bags
1. Savior Equipment Specialist
We love their full-sized rifle bags…but Savior Equipment also has a couple awesome range bags in their Specialist line.
The “smallest” range bag is perfect for one or two handguns and a couple of mags.
And a good amount of miscellaneous stuff in the front too. The perfect quick-range trip bag, in our opinion.
Use code PEWPEW15 for 15% off.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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The next size up is the Mini Range Bag which gives you three compartments and plenty of space for multiple pistols and even long guns.
The middle compartment gives you mag space and some really nice zipped see-through compartments I’ve been using for ammo and electronics.
Plus, you can Velcro them around and even sub out for other compartments.
The rear compartment is more open so I’ve been using it for sub-guns or two pistols.
While the front is oriented towards rifle mags but I’ve been putting ear pro as well as suppressors there too.
Great for most standard range trips!
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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They’ve also just come out with a full-size bag which I’m excited to try out.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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What’s your take on these bags? Rate them below!
2. Osage River Range Bag
Osage River Range Bags are probably the most highly rated range bags on Amazon…so I had to try out both their sizes.
First up is their “Light Duty” which measures 13.5 x 10.5 x 7.5 inches. Full-sized 1911 in there for scale.
It’s a pretty good size if you’re bringing one or two handguns and not that much ammo…although you can probably squeeze in 200 rounds utilizing the pockets.
The main compartment also has a Velcro divider, so you can choose to partition it however you want…I’d probably have one thin side for a handgun.
The two large side pockets have two dividers and also 5 pistol magazine holders each. This bag is clearly geared for handgunners.
Overall, it’s light in weight and flimsy in a good way…like you can fold it down when not needed.
The bottom has nice rubberized feet that will prevent sliding and premature wear.
Also comes with thin straps that do their job…unless you’re carrying pure ammo. Also…tactical sandals for the win.
The Light Duty and Standard all come in four colors.
We’ve hooked it up for our readers to save 15% with code PEWPEW15.
The Standard size is a little bit larger at 18 x 13 x 10 inches. And the panels and zippers are also beefed up.
There are two partitions that you can move around in the main compartment. And now the large pockets on the outside have 7 handgun mag holsters each.
The one thing I’d wish for is to have rifle magazine holders too.
Standard is the size I’d recommend for most folks…especially if you’re going to be shooting both long guns and handguns.
Here are all the bags for comparison again…Osage River are the two gray ones in front.
Shoulder straps are the same as the Light Duty. If you load this up to its full capacity…you’re probably going to be using the handle straps instead.
I can see how it’s the best-selling bag out there. For the money, it’s hard to beat…plus you get different sizes and color choices.
I’d opt for the Standard size unless you’re sure you’re only going to be shooting a handgun or two.
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One more time…PEWPEW15 coupon to save 15% off your bag direct from the source.
3. Orca Tactical Range Bag
Another very popular bag is the more premium Orca Tactical. I like the heavier-feeling material and cross-cut pattern.
It’s a Goldilocks size of being in between the Osage River Light and Standard range bags. Still plenty large if you’re shooting multiple guns and bringing in some tools.
Another thing I really like about it is that it has 4x rifle and 6 pistol magazine slots. Finally!
Also has rubberized feet on the bottom.
The interior compartment is also adjustable with Velcro, plus overall it feels more heavy-duty than the Osage River.
Shoulder strap is also comfier. Oh, and there’s Velcro on one side for your patches!
My choice if you want something more heavy-duty feeling with more thought-out pockets and sides.
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4. Ammo Can (.50 Caliber)
No list is complete with some ammo cans…the OG range bag!
I like the .50 Caliber Ammo Can size for hauling around ammo or heavier items.
Plus, it can double as an impromptu shooting rest if needed.
If I’m shooting a lot of guns in a range session…I’ll usually take a standard soft range bag with magazines, tools, and gear…and throw the heavy ammo in an ammo can.
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Ammo cans are also great for…storing ammo. For that, I like using .30 Caliber sized cans.
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5. 5.11 Tactical Range Bag
5.11 is well known for making massive amounts of tactical gear.
The 5.11 Tactical Range Bag is no different.
It’s a big bag…capable of packing quite a bit of gear. It’s also adaptable, and it certainly appears to have been built by shooters.
Excluding the main pouch, you get five pouches on the outside of the bag. The largest is outfitted with 8 pistol mag pouches that can hold 8 double stack mags or 16 single stack magazines. This main pouch zippers all the way down and forms an excellent little cleaning mat.
In the rear of this pouch is a divider, and it’s the perfect space to store your handguns. The other 4 pouches are a little smaller but large enough to store ammo boxes, a set of full-on earmuffs, and other moderate-sized goodies.
There are also two removable sections inside for segmenting small items and a brass collection bag.
Usually, I have it so crammed full of stuff that I’ve taken off the shoulder straps…but they are there.
And, of course… there are some rubberized feet to protect the bottom.
Overall quality is great…better than Osage, but not as robust feeling as Orca. Which is probably good since then it would weigh too much.
Right now, it’s a perfect mix.
If you really carry a lot of stuff to the range like me…get the 5.11 and combo it with a utility wagon ($69).
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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6. Savior Equipment S.E.M.A. Mobile Arsenal Backpack
If you shoot pistols and need a way to tote a few to the range alongside other essentials, we suggest the Savior Equipment S.E.M.A. Mobile Arsenal backpack.
Divided into sections, the backpack provides an internal pocket that can support three pistol cases that ship with the backpack.
Up top, you get a nice pocket for ears, eyes, and ammo.
Rounding out the features, the bag comes with attachment points to add pouches and even a patch area to show your love for your favorite brands (ahem…Pew Pew Tactical pouches, anyone?)
The S.E.M.A is a great option for shooters who like a good backpack and want to tote more than one pistol to the range.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
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Bagged and Tagged
There you have it…5 of our favorite range bags out there.
To sum it all up:
- Editor’s Pick: Osage River (use code PEWPEW15)
- Premium Chocie: Orca Tactical
- Hard Case: MTM Ammo Can
- Best Large Case: 5.11 Tactical
Now that you’ve gotten your range bag picked out…check out how to carry your guns in Best Pistol & Rifle Cases…or our favorite eyes and ears in Best Shooting Hearing Protection and Best Shooting Glasses.
45 Leave a Reply
I have a 5.11 range bag given as a gift several years ago. Cannot state it is specifically the same as the 5.11 product in your review but if not identical, the pictures make me believe they are siblings or 1st cousins. The good--well made, held up well with heavy use over the years, no issues with quality. The bad--side pockets where I keep my shooting glasses (Rudy Performace kit), and hearing protection (ProEars) are slightly smaller than my previous bag but was able to make them work, lift out bag for pistol storage is too small for one or more of my competition pistols (a double stack 1911 style pistol with iron sights, and some pistols with red dots) and difficult or impossibel to zip the pocket closed because it is not deep enough. Magazine side pocket-- the loops are not consistently sized, and some pistol double stack mags are difficult/impossible to store in the loops. Some of my double stack 9mm PCC mags will not fit since their diameter is too large for the loop. Some/all the extended mag will not fit but I do/did not expect them too since they are too tall for the side pocket. The loop velcro on the handle was short stitched on one long side. Despite the minor short comings, I've used the bag for years as my primary range bag.
For those that would consider the 'Savior Equipment S.E.M.A. Mobile Arsenal Backpack' for a 'range bag' type thing --- if you want a lower cost option that's decent quality consider the 'Primary Arms Tactical Assault Backpack' which is $24.00 at Primary Arms, I've got two of them I use (got them recently ... one for another range bag and the other for our other car I used to consolidate stuff in a single 'carry package' with first aid and some other stuff including extra ammo, batteries, snacks, and general comfort/emergency items, etc...), they are decent quality and hold lots of stuff.
Can't believe you left out G5 Outdoors G.P.S. Handgunner Range Backpack. For multiple hand guns and accessories has to be the best
Savior no longer has the Sema backpack listed on it's site or amazon. I'm using Tidewe Tactical range bag sold on Amazon for under $100 which holds 4 pistols plus lots of other gear. It seems to hold up well but I did reinforce the bottom compartment so it doesn't collapse when I remove the guns. It seems you can contact their CS and get additional pistol bags which can still fit in the bottom.
I have a few bags, VSIM, and a few others. If it's just guns, I usually take my Case Club Tactical Pre-Cut 4-Pistol Backpack. It's really awesome, IMO should be on this list. Gun storage is sturdy, and the bag itself has Los of space for earmuffs, ammo, and whatever you bring to the range.
It's not cheap, but I think it's worth every penny.
Great review! I have been using LAPG’s own version of a 5.11 large range bag since 2015. It has been proven to be very sturdy at half the price of a 5.11. And is somewhat of a direct clone. Including the removable stage bag and pistol pouches…
Hafner World Wide Inc. manufactured the best shooting bags. I’ve use their Pro Shooters bag; it’s currently twenty-seven years old and not a single stitch has failed. I’ll end up passing it down to my kids. I don’t know if those guys are still in business, but if you find one of their bags, it’s worth picking up!
They are closed forever now.
I certainly like the Orca Tactical at $59 but not at the $85 price on Amazon. That's a 44% increase since Sept 3.
I don't understand a gun bag review doesn't state how many guns a bag can hold. The primary function of a bag...
Hey JD! Thanks for the feedback. We're in the process of revamping some of these older articles. Hang tight!
I wouldn't say the Orca is heavy duty. I have one and loved it until I needed to use it as a shooting bag which isn't an uncommon thing I feel. Well the stitching completely blew out for the muzzle brake after only 10 rounds.
Depending on your State. These bags will fit anyone's need. I have the 5.11 that I got from Amazon last year. In NJ, you have to have two separate containers. One for ammo and the other for your unloaded firearm.(locked and secured) I found this out later after a few trips to the range. So now I just carry my two containers, eye protection clip to my shirt and ear protection around my neck. My bag is just a storage container sitting at home now.
If it's made of plastic it's a box, not a can.
Gallon paint containers are now often made of plastic. Are they also boxes?
That 5.11 Tactical bag is the same as the Midway USA Competition Range bag. Your paying $30 more for that 5.11 Tactical logo.
You guys should review/checkout the Lynx Defense pistol bags. More expensive than most on this list but worth it!
Seems like all these bags are designed for handgun ranges, where are the bags for rifle shooters?
Has anyone used the explorer tactical range ready bag? It has about the same reviews and ratings as the Osage river bag except the description says it’s made of 1000D ballistic nylon, and it seems to have a better layout for storage. It has capacity for 7 pistol mags and 4 rifle mags on the side compartments with individual sleeves on each side for pistols plus the main compartment similar to asage river. Any info helps. Im new to firearms still with hopes of purchasing a pistol in a few months once I’m 21 but have been reading up as much as possible for the last year on all types of firearms.
P.s. pewpew tactical is hands down best site for reviews in my option. I’ve been following the website for about 6-8 months now and reading all of the articles I can. I check back daily to see what the next article is about. You guys rock!
I prefer to use a tool bag so it is less obvious that it a range bag. They are often less expensive as well, though not purpose built. (Yes, people still steal tools, but at least they don't know it is a gun.)
Living in California I need all my zipper compartments the be able to lock so I use the Vertx A-range and B-range. High quality and great bags!
Good tip!
You definitely need to check out the NcStar VISM range bags. I have two of the Competition models, one set up for rifle shooting and one for handguns. They're big like the 5.11 you have in this review, well built, with lots of exterior and interior pockets, elastic straps in one of the side pockets that can hold pistol or rifle magazines, and side slots in the interior that are just right for holding handguns. I bought a stiff piece of art board for less than $2 and made floors for them that helps them to keep their shape a little better. They're the best value out there, selling in the $35 range on Amazon. They have larger and smaller ones, also.
Cool, I like their shooting mat rifle case combo right now too.
I use Husky tool bags, heavy denier lots of pockets carry handles and carry strap. A lot cheaper than some Gucci range bags and better quality.
I also use the Husky tool bag, heavy duty and has lasted for years, got it as a two fer with a smaller bag that works as the multi pistol carry and the larger bag for everything else including my spotting scope.
Great idea!
Yep and the larger ones have a VERY rigid center divider with elastic topped pockets that are perfect for stick mags. They are built like brick sheethouses because they are designed to carry HEAVY tools.
The large mouth stays open if you want it too.
$30 is a steal and I got it at a $20 when it goes on regular sale.
Great article. I have a few range carry bags but after reading Ryan Cleckner’s Long Range Shooting book, I have been carrying a backpack now. I’d love to see y’alls opinion on some of the backpacks built just for the range. On rifle, I use the bag as a rest. Being a bit larger than typical range bags, I can keep food, water, jacket and other items that wouldn’t fit in a smaller carry bag. It’s nice only using only one bag now. I usually keep the front open and facing me. It makes it easy to keep my phone, tablet and other electroout of the sun but easily accessible.
Thanks, I'll start trying out some backpacks. I took a precision course and we used backpacks too...except of course I blew bits of mine off since I was running a bullpup.
MidwayUSA Competition Range Bag
Features
Reinforced Stitching
Heavy Duty Zippers
5 Bags In 1
9 Total pockets
7 on Main bag
2 on Removable Stage Bag
14 Magazine Pouches
5" x 6" Fired Brass Carrying Bag
Removable Carry Strap with Shoulder Bag
External ID Pocket
17" x 10" x 10" Main Compartment
2 Removable Padded Pistol Rugs
Removable Stage Bag
The MidwayUSA Competition Range Bag was built from the ground up to be the best range bag on the market. Perfect for competition or a day at the range, this bag is big enough to hold everything you need in a neat and organized fashion. Super tough PVC coated material, reinforced stitching, heavy duty zippers, and closed cell foam padding in all pockets provide a long lasting range bag that ensures excellent protection for your gear. The MidwayUSA Competition Range Bag is actually 5 bags in 1, a huge main bag, a removable stage bag/ammunition carrier, 2 removable pistol rugs and a removable fired brass or ammunition carrying bag. Whether you are a serious competitor or a weekend shooter, this range bag will quickly become a constant companion anytime you head out to shoot. The MidwayUSA Competition Range Bag is one of the very best bags on the market at any price!
Have had one for more than 10 years. Will handle anything! Can get one on sale for $55.99 or less. They usually go on sale several times per year. Reg. price is $79.99 - they are worth that price (but a bargain is a bargain!)
The MUSA bag should definitely be on this list. It is basically the same as the 5.11 bag for less than half the price. I have both the Competition Range Bag and the Compact Competion range bag and have been travelling with this all over creation for many years without any issues. Your readers would be well-served to take a look at those bags.
Big +1 on Midway bag. And I didn't know that they stand behind them for a lifetime. I bought due to price and put so many guns and ammo in it I can barely pick it up, never an issue. No loose threads, no signs of wear. Great zippers, lots of features. I had a Midway shooting mat for over 10 years. Had an issue with the carry strap I ignored. 10 years later they replaced the entire mat. When it comes to bag and cases I will definitely put Midway USA up high on the list for value and guarantee.
Nice, I'll have to check them out for the future update.
You guys need to check out the Pistol bag from GoRuck!
Thanks, I've heard of their backpacks but not their pistol bags.
One thing to think about, for handguns at least you might want to think twice about buying a back that screams 'gun bag', like with the Glock logo, etc. Unless you cable that bag to you leg or something I always worry that it can make you a bigger theft target. I know you might be thinking 'I'm armed, who's going to rob me' but if you put the bag down and turn your head a moment you might be shocked what some fleet footed criminal might try. I'm always on alert entering and leaving the range as well and never take my hand off the bag until I'm closing/locking the trunk (and I'm wearing my EDC).
I would've liked to have seen this article include at least one backpack. The biggest issue I've see with nearly every range "bag" is that there is no real place to put pistols (other than to just shove them in one of the pockets. I have four pistols I take to the range when my wife and I shoot and I'm tired of everything floating around in the same space! Our current bag ends up like a range mosh pit.
I'm leaning toward the G.P.S. Handgunner Backpack (under $100 on Amazon). It has four foam compartments to slot in handguns at the bottom, and separate storage for mags, hearing and eye protection, and even targets.
I enjoyed the article and thought you gave a lot of advice and reasons for your choices that new shooters or even seasoned shooters might have overlooked when looking for new bags.
I have been looking around for a new long gun bag and thought the Plano interchangeable bag was interesting especially since many shooters use multiple caliber weapons that is a great way to quickly store and take the correct ammo and weapons for that day at the range.
Thumbs up on the article.
Thanks Tim!
Sig Sauer has a great range bag, One end wide pocket for ear muffs, Other end for glasses, Outer pockets with many mag pockets, One large on one side, 2 smaller on the other.
Inside, 2 large pockets to carry extra pistols, and the open inside holds a ridiculous amount of ammo. It was my 3rd bag, and I stopped looking after I found it. Well built, can handle the weight.
IMHO....great article by the way, I was looking for a long gun bag,
Glad we could help out!
Mine ain't a common range bag. Why? Because its a tool bag from Home Depot which cost me 20bucks! Quality wise is much better than these range bags. Thicker, tougher, awesome! Inside you can fit a soft case double pistol bag with magazine magazine pouch, a .30mm ammo metal can, ear and eye protection holder (amazon), my case for cleaning materials, paper targets and my case for go pro plus accessories.
Nice Richard!