Updated April 2024: Removed regular tennis racket & Vertx Commuter 2.0, added Lynx Defense EDC Backpack
As a concealed carrier, I have gained an appreciation for discretion and this led me to the world of discreet/diversion bags.
Since I own more than just concealed carry pistols, I like to find ways to be discreet with my big guns while traveling.
Don’t get me wrong; I have my fair share of your normal, everyday gun cases — both soft and hard types. But most of the time, I prefer to be discreet, and there are several reasons why. More on that in a minute…
Let’s discuss diversion bags from top to bottom – what they are, the pros/cons, and which ones you should consider – to help you safely and sneakily travel with guns.
If you’ve wanted to channel your inner spy, read on to see how to do it.
THE QUICK LIST
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Best for PCC & SBR
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Best Backpack
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Best Diversion Bag
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Best Foam Case
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Best Budget Option
Table of Contents
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What is a Discreet Case?
Unlike bulky rifle cases and pistol bags, a discreet bag hides the fact that you’ve got a gun inside.
But there’s a little more to it.
There are actually two categories of bags – discreet and diversion — and each has its function.
A discreet case simply tries not to look like a gun case. These ditch the camo colors, MOLLE, big patches, and all sorts of normal tactical giveaways that plague most rifle cases.
On the other hand, a diversionary case looks like something else entirely. We’re talking bags that appear more like a tennis racquet safe, guitar case, or laptop bag.
Diversion bags fly under the radar much more than simply discreet bags.
Best Discreet Rifle and Pistol Bags
So, we’ve established why you might want a discreet or diversion bag, but now, you’re wondering which one should you buy.
We have you covered with our recommendations for the best gun bags that don’t look like gun bags.
1. Savior Equipment Fiddle Master
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Perfect for PCCs or SBRs
- Very discreeet
- Tiedown straps keep gun in place
Cons
- Expensive
The Savior Equipment Fiddle Master is perfect with its 30″ length for a pistol or SBR.
It comes with two tie-down straps inside, so your gun isn’t flopping around.
And also comes with two TSA locks on the outside. But don’t worry; there are also two plastic lock holes for your own locks if you plan on flying.
Plus, a final clamp on the side, so nothing gets loose.
Take 10% off from their site with code PEWPEW10.
What’s your take? Rate it below!
2. Lynx Defense EDC Backpack
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Multiple designs
- Looks like a regular backpack
- Secret back compartment
- No slip shoulder straps
Cons
- Must supply your own holster or means to secure pistol
Lynx Defense is known for high-quality, top-tier range bags and gun cases. So it’s no surprise that our Editor-in-Chief fell in love with the EDC backpack.
It comes in an array of styles, including basic colors like black, FDE, and gray, as well as some fun patterns like Multicam, Vietnam Tiger Stripe, and Splatter.
The EDC Backpack offers multiple pockets for organization and toting everyday items like keys, laptop, books, etc., but the secret sauce is in the back pocket — a concealed EDC pocket perfect for your favorite pistol.
The pocket is easy to access and unzip but stays hidden for when you’re just walking around town. Aside from the CCW pocket and compartments for storage, the no-slip shoulder pads are a definite win. They are comfy and stay in place!
The downsides to the EDC backpack? Its hidden compartment doesn’t come with a way to secure your gun, meaning you’ll have to supply the holster or means to keep it in place. Also, price — not everyone can foot $200 for a backpack.
But if you’re willing to splurge you’re getting a versatile design that can go literally anywhere.
3. Elite Survival Systems Covert Operation Cases
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Simple
- Durable
- Well-made
Cons
- Pricey
Are you a big fan of subgun-style braced pistols like me? Well, then, the Elite Survival Systems Covert Operation Case will be perfect for you.
Built for these teeny tiny guns, the Cover Operation Case accommodates a variety of braced pistol styles.
This includes the Micro Scorpion, Roni Glocks, K model MPXs, K model MP5s, and so many more fun subguns.
Using an ultra-small case design reminiscent of a laptop bag, the Covert Operation comes outfitted with strap tie-downs to keep weapons secure and unmoving.
The guns squeeze into the pack, looking like they stepped out of an awesome 80s spy movie.
It opens quickly and cleanly, allowing you to retrieve your subgun without removing the bag. In short, you can fight Russian spies through the streets of Moscow, no prob.
Or, you know, move your gun easily from your car and back to your gun safe.
With an external pouch that compliments the main pouch, basic gear can be brought along for fun. Additionally, inside the main compartment, you’ll find a magazine pouch.
4. Hazard 4 Dropshot Tennis Racket Bag
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Pros
- Heavily padded design protects from drops and falls
- Less appealing to thieves
- Compartments for accessories
Cons
- Price may be an issue for some
The Hazard 4 Dropshot model is a purpose-built gun case that looks just like a tennis racket case.
Why this style?
Tennis racket cases are great for discreet carry because tennis rackets are rarely the targets of theft.
While rackets can cost a pretty penny, there is no resale value. Unless you face an up-and-coming tennis champ who moonlights as a criminal, the likelihood of this case being nabbed is low.
The Hazard 4 Dropshot bag features a heavily padded design to protect your weapon and optics from drops, falls, and general storage hazards.
Inside the pack, you’ll find two compartments. A smaller compartment offers a healthy amount of MOLLE and hook-and-loop areas to attach magazine pouches, medkits, knives, and whatever tactical gear you choose to carry.
Meanwhile, the main compartment measures 32.7 inches long and fits an M4-sized rifle with collapsed stock.
Need something for subguns or bullpups? It handles that too. Using tie-downs, the Dropshot keeps everything locked down and safe. Despite looking a little plain, it’s simple, and that’s good if you are trying to be sneaky about your wares. You won’t find any MOLLE or patches.
Covert is the name of this game.
5. Hazard 4 Battle Axe Guitar Case
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Pros
- Best for long guns
- Lots of accessory pockets
- Can be worn as a backpack or with single strap
Cons
- May be too much for smaller guns
- Expensive
If the Dropshot is too small for your needs, fret not, Hazard’s got you with the Battle Axe Guitar Case.
Guitars have an interesting shape that makes them perfect for rifle cases.
First and foremost, there’s a distinctive look to guitars and their cases. And this bulbous body and thin neck aesthetic accommodate a modern rifle well.
The body makes it easy to stow a magazine and optic on the rifle, while the thin neck accommodates the barrel exceptionally well – all without making the case look overly large or odd.
The Dropshot is 20 liters, while the Axe Guitar case is 35 liters. Its main compartment measures 40 inches long, so pack a larger rifle or shotgun.
Or go really wild and stow multiple small guns. An internal pad keeps multiple guns separate and safe.
The big, open case provides enough room for the rifle, as well as a chest rig, magazines, and a whole lot more.
Outside, the Axe Guitar Case offers three external pouches, varying in size.
One accepts multiple magazine pouches, another delivers hook-and-loop accommodation, and the last measures just small enough for a sandwich if you get hungry.
The Axe Guitar case can be worn as a backpack or with a single shoulder strap. You can also channel your inner rockstar by toting it around via the carrying handle.
All in all, it’s a sweet setup. Perfect if you want to travel discreetly (and look cool doing it).
6. Peak Cases
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Cut foam protects guns and accessories
- Good quality
Cons
- Not as universal as other models
Let’s talk about a company that produces hard cases for firearms that are both discreet and ultra-cool.
Peak Company makes cases in various shapes and sizes. Outside of being discreet, they protect your weapons extremely well. These are purpose-built deceitful cases that appear, on the surface, to be guitar cases, violin cases, and even medical first aid kits.
But lo and behold, there’s a gun lurking inside!
Standard cases look rectangular and plain, with no MOLLE, Multicam, or anything screaming “gun.” That said, the quality is very nice, and the contents of these cases will easily be mistaken for A/V equipment.
Regardless of style, Peak Cases delivers custom-cut foam inserts designed for specific weapons. If you are worried you won’t find one that fits, don’t be. You will be surprised at just how many guns Peak Cases accommodates.
From AR-15s to CZ Scorpions, Shockwaves, and even oddballs like the SRM 1216 and the Tikka T3X TAC A1…they have it.
Oh, and did I forget to add that the cut foam will often accommodate extra ammo, magazines, and other accessories? That’s a nice touch. Blending that custom-cut foam with a hard exterior design makes these bags extremely protective.
Peak Cases brings the cool factor that doesn’t damage your guns and gear.
7. UTG Alpha Battle Sling Pack
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Pros
- Budget friendly
- Can fit a lot of different guns in bag
- Tie-down straps and padded divider
Cons
- Huge logo
A lot of these bags could be considered pricey, but don’t worry. There are budget-friendly options out there — case in point: the UTG Alpha Battle Sling Pack.
The Alpha bag is either 30 or 34 inches, depending on your selection. You have options as far as colors go — dark earth and blue and gray on black. (I prefer blue.)
As a sling bag, it offers a center point sling that attaches to the right or left side of the bag. The thick sling supports the weight of whatever firearm(s) you carry.
Speaking of guns, you can fit a lot of different kinds in this bag. Even the 30-inch bag can accommodate a broken-down AR-15, rifles, or shotguns with folding stocks. A padded divider is included to keep two long guns stored safely without them grinding away at their respective finishes.
Included tie-down straps keep the rifles from shifting and moving. This makes carrying the gun more comfortable since guns do not shift around the bag.
The UTG Alpha Bag is mostly solid, but it has one cardinal sin — the big UTG logo. While UTG isn’t a household name, logos like this rub me the wrong way.
Why Use a Discreet Gun Bag?
First reason: deter thieves. Gun cases typically stand out and are easy to spot.
Not to mention, guns prove popular targets of theft because they are valuable, often high-ticket items.
Say I am out on a hunt, three hours from home, and I need to make a pit stop. When I leave my vehicle, I don’t want a big rifle case chilling in the back seat.
Talk about a prime target for a smash and grab!
Even if you aren’t dealing with masked baddies, simply traveling for a class can be troublesome with a long gun.
Staying in a hotel, I definitely don’t want to leave my gun in the car overnight.
I also don’t want to tote it through the hotel, drawing attention to myself. Call me shy, but I prefer people not to know my business.
In a similar vein, I want to keep the Karens away. You know what I’m talking about.
One time, I visited my brother in the ‘burbs when I got an invite to shoot with some friends. As I walked to my car with an uncased rifle, my brother’s neighbor happened to pull into her driveway.
Her eyes bugged out of her head. (Not that I completely blame her. A guy she’d never seen before was walking around with a rifle in hand.)
No laws were broken, so, at worst, if she called the police, it would have been a quick encounter, BUT it’s something to avoid, if possible.
Final Thoughts
Transporting guns discreetly doesn’t have to be a difficult task with the right bag. Whether you opt for an innocent-looking guitar-style case or a work-appropriate sling bag, there are plenty of rifle bags available to meet your needs.
Do you fine folks have any discreet carry cases you’d recommend? Let us know below. In the meantime, if you’re headed off to a less discreet location, like a range, check out our list of the 5 Best Range Bags.
47 Leave a Reply
What's th rifle in the Dropshot
Vang Comp Chair bag is great for shotgunners out there
My Vertx backpack works just fine.
I inhibited a Nike equipment backpack. Works great for my sub2000 and all the ammo. Very well made
I just use a beat up old Wilson tennis racket bag. It was a free hand me down from my kid who got a new one. It fits an AR pistol perfectly. As a bonus it has the proper well worn look so it appears legit. Nobody gives it a second thought
A soprano sax gig bag from Amazon for <$50 works outstanding for a Shockwave. JUST fits so no shifting and it's well padded too with leather reinforced anchor points for handle and shoulder strap.
I keep my Rattler in a Hello Kitty Backpack.
For a Kral Jumbo Dazzle PCP rifle, 40 inches long, I disassemble it and transport it inconspicuously in a 14,5" laptop bag...A 1/4" three-play board helps to hang the parts affixed with velcro belts internally.
The longer piece is the 23" barrel, I transport it inside a $2, tubular cane.
I use the Maxpedition Doppleduffel. Not as an EDC bag but a go bag. It is decent but would be better if the bottom was more rigid and the dimensions a little different.
I use the laptop style bag. Leaving a network cable loop sticking out of the bag results in nobody even looking at it.
Why would TSA locks on the Fiddle Master be a *selling point* when you're supposed to NOT use TSA-keyed locks when trying to fly with a weapon? If anything, the ASSA/ABLOY locks on my hard case for travel cost more than the damned hard case because they have a rep for the TSA not being able to cut them. Any asshole can buy those TSA keys at all manners of places.
"The UTG Alpha Bag is mostly solid, but it has one cardinal sin — the big UTG logo"
That's a major irritant for me. Not just with this UTG item but with accessories for firearms in general. I passed up buying that UTG Alpha Bag for that very reason, actually its a decent quality thing and would be worth the money but I went with something that costs more that's so close to the UTG thing because it did not do what UTG did with their logo on their Alpha Bag.
These companies that put their logos and names on the products in very visible or large or multiple places manner, I mostly ignore and look for another brand that doesn't want to use me for a walking advertisement purposes. I've passed up many a deal because of that, I abhor it.
Don't get me wrong, I don't mind that a company might put their logo or name on something they make. For example, it doesn't bother me that Ford puts their logo on the cars they make but if Ford put it in a huge thing splashed across the car or all over the car I would not buy a Ford.
Just to add: If the UTG Alpha Bag logo had been subdued (as in black) I would have gotten the UTG Alpha Bag.
Get the Savior Coffin bag instead. It's $1 more and a solid bag.
The fiddle and guitar 'discreet' cases are not really 'discreet', in fact they attract criminals who view such cases as containing musical instruments for which there is a very healthy market overall for used musical instruments. So the term 'discreet' is relative.
Used fiddlers have a very low reselling price. I have bought fiddlers in excellent shape at the Salvation Army store for $8 because of the case.
I'm talking about high dollar professionals instruments, there is a very healthy market for them used if in good shape and quality matters too. These are stolen every day across the U.S.
besides, guns and instruments are not the only thing people carry in fiddle and guitar cases.
But the point is, if its a case a bad guy thinks might contain something of value, no matter how valuable it actually is then it will stand out to them.
And there is also the 'uniqueness' factor for the environment, for example: you are walking down the street carry a guitar case and no one else is then you stand out no matter what's actually in the case because you are 'unique' with something hidden from view in that case that might be valuable. But on the other hand, if you were carrying a backpack type thing in an area where people carry backpacks a lot then you are not unique, but if people are carrying backpacks and you show up with a guitar case then you become unique and more noticeable.
people generally think criminals are dumb. Well, some are but not all of them. They look for tale tale signs, and possibilities too. Although one could simply be transporting a guitar not worth much or maybe it is worth a lot, people have played the guitar-case-carry-for-valuables game for a long time (yes, people actually do that for all sorts of valuables).
I stopped a guy once with a guitar case and he had $5,000.00 in it, walking down the street. He was stumbling around like he was drunk and we got a call. But there was nothing wrong with the money, turned out he had been hoarding all this cash at home for years from his little side business of doing car repairs and handy-man type home repairs and people paid him in cash. He decided to take it to the bank and deposit but had also decided to stop along his walk at a bar and have a few drinks. It was a strange thing, we all had a good laugh over it later. After a little while of questioning and investigation he sobered up some and we took him to the bank, let him deposit his cash, then drove him home.
I use a soft camera bag for my pistols. It can hold 2 compacts, 4 to 8 mags and a couple boxes is ammo.
A laptop bag also works for smaller weapons.
When my wife and I had our first kid, she got me a "Diaper Dude" diaper bag. Its a messenger style bag with two large compartments, about 15" in diameter. I usually have two pistols in one side and extra mags and ammo in the other when traveling.
I can get a sub gun with collapsing stock or even an AR pistol with folding stock in the bag as well. There are no tie down straps but there are zippers. There is also a side pocket with a flap that folds over 3 rectangular pouches that will hold two standard AR mags in each for a total of six.
I typically will have some small towels and wet wipes in there on top to keep things from sliding around and also solidifies the appearance of "just" a diaper bag. There is also another pocket that will fit a tourniquet. The bag is pretty inconspicuous when I have my kids with me, which is most times. Granted they are not babies anymore, I have never once had anyone ask what the bag is for or gotten a wierd look. I have had some Moms in the past ask me if I had wipes, which I did. They are actually useful for a lot of stuff.
I usually conseal carry on my person. However I have used this as a "rifle bag" walking through my hometown farmers market, shopping mall or grocery store with my AR pistol in tow.
It isn't perfect but for traveling it works great and I can discretely carry a subgun AR pistol if I feel the need.
I use a plain black camera bag for transport and range day. It holds two pistols, four mags and 200 rounds of 9mm with no problem.
For smaller pistols, small 'bank bags' work well. Only potential drawback is that thieves may think you're carrying cash.
I use a 20 year old solid blue gym bag. It is built with a thick vinyl. It is large and can easily handle 25 lbs of guns and ammo. Got the bag for my kids using box tops from food boxes. You'd never know that the danger lurking inside.
To be totally honest, I've a real problem with the concept of cased guns. In my opinion, if it's cased, it's no longer a Primary Weapon ready for immediate use. I'm not former military, but anything that takes time to open, reduces readiness for use.
The question then comes down to whether one is carrying their rifle, carbine, SBR/Pistol as their Primary Weapon.
A few of the Eberlestock bags are like the Vertx ones in that they look like a regular old backpack and come in colors that don't scream "handgun or SBR in here", but have internal options that are firearm optimized. But if you're really trying go all "grey man" then stick to a generic duffle or gym bag but add internal enhancements that support velcro, molle, etc
As a musician, if you carry an instrument bag, other musicians will ask what you have and to see it. And if you are carrying a tennis bag that holds multiple racquets, players will assume you are a serious player and want to discuss the sport and gear, as well.
How about something that looks and handles like a medium to full size back country backpack, but will let you covertly carry a fully assembled 14.5/16" barreled AR-15? Just in case you run into a pack of ANTIFA on your way to country where you might run into packs of other friendlier furry fanged four legged animals.
You can't be serious about these choices? When talking about firearms, being discreet doesn't just mean to have a case/bag that doesn't look like a firearm case/bag. It means to have a case/bag that blends into your environment so that you don't draw any attention to yourself.
If you are out in public (when you would need a discreet bag/case) doing normal everyday things such as shopping or grabbing a cup of coffee, and wearing normal everyday clothes such as jeans and a button down shirt, there is nothing discreet about carrying around a tennis racket or guitar bag. It stands out almost as bad as carrying a firearm shaped case.
People who actually play tennis don't carry their rackets with them everywhere they go. The only time they carry around their racket is when they go to/from their house and car, and from their car to/from the court. Same goes for people playing the guitar.
Carrying these bags in any other scenario than what the bag is used for (carrying a tennis racket or guitar before and after playing) not only looks ridiculous, but also so out 9f place that people will find it odd and therefore drawing eyes and attention which is the exact opposite of what discreet means.
Firearm people need to think a little deeper than discreet equals a thing that doesn't look tactical or firearm related. It's about blending into the environment you're in.
Creepy shit to be posting this week.
Aged a bit like milk this week :(
Nah. The need for opsec never takes a holiday, regardless of what a few idiots are doing.
I would have added Eberlestock bags to this list too. The "secret weapon" back looks like a hiking bag but can hold up to an 11.5in AR pistol WITHOUT a folding stock.
I agree with the comments about a guitar case being a bigger target for theft than a discreet bag.
I've carried the Vertx Transit Sling 1 to work most of the last 3-4 years. It's very similar to the Commuter Sling. It's a great bag, well thought out. Everything about it works like it is supposed to. I like that I can get to my laptop and other things without opening up the handgun section. I just wish it had one small easy access pocket for sunglasses, keys, chapstick, ect. I'd buy Vertx again.
I've had the unfortunate experience of having almost every kind of bag or case stolen from my vehicle "smash and grab" style, including a brand new (but empty) guitar case, a laptop in a laptop bag, a camera in a camera case, and a small back pack with smelly gym cloths in it (would love to have seen when they opened it!). I guess any case is an easy S n G target. I carry my long guns in long gun cases, but wrap them loosely in an old blanket and lay them on the back set. It looks like I sleep in my back seat and no one has ever touched them!
Hey, icecolb I’ve been looking for a carry back and like the transit.
Just not sure if my Springfield victor edge 7.5 will fit.
What do you think, is the transit long enough?
It is about 15" tall on the inside, which I think is too small for what you want. It isn't a very big bag.
I super duper love my LaRue Tactical Covert Rifle Case (I use it with a bullpup 12ga). Very high quality, great adaptability with their additional modifications (it ships with a good pile to start), and nice, simple, discreet looks (though not diversionary).
https://www.larue.com/products/larue-covert-rifle-case-mkii/
Out here in BFE, the racket bag would be kinda odd. Plus, to pull it off you need to wear a track suit, but then you look like a low level Russian gangster. I insist on only looking like a high level gangster.
A small wheeled tool tote or tool bag with a DeWalt or Milwaukee logo would never raise an eyebrow in blue collar country. Although like the guitar case, they still might appeal to a smash-n-grabber.
Some rifles can fit into softball bat/kit shoulder bags. Same for golf club bags. I guess it depends on the environment and if you think you need immediate deployability, or are simply transporting.
You can always put patches or stickers on the bag to camouflage it. I throw on a Subaru hat or wear a Kermit the Frog shirt or some other harmless looking shirt. I dress in dad clothes and no ones thinks I am carrying a Glock or two. Simple camouflage.
Sup peeps, first time commenter. I feel like in most situations, this would actually be a tactical disadvantage (if using for EDC) drop to knee, UNZIP a pretty good sized bag, pull out weapon, then load mag etc, etc. I carry a 5.11 RUSH MOAB 10 everyday and it is perfect. Kimber micro 9 in the hidden pocket which also fit my Kimber Ultra carry ii .45 3 inch barrel. In the situations I am referring to this is faster to sling around and get to your weapon. Plus it holds all my other things and is light and compact. Great durability and very well made. Been using mine for about 5 yrs and going strong. Worth the $100 bucks.
I have a Savior 30 " COVERT SINGLE RIFLE CASE and am really impressed by its quality and design not to mention the price.....
I'm not sold on guitar cases as gun bags. Guitars are easier to resell than guns and some of them are just as expensive -- like candy for thieves.
I like the features of the fake tennis bag, but it's not as off-putting to a thief as a regular tennis racket bag. I would stencil a tennis brand logo on it, and hang a tennis racket-shaped ID tag on a zipper.
Color is most important to me - anything not black, OD green or tacti-camo doesn’t scream guns. Maybe cameras if you choose tan, which is bad enough. I choose gray color for my bags. Second most important is backpack form rather than small duffel bag style. I don’t wear tacti-clothes either - only denims or khakis. Look like just another dumbass civilian, then own it.
I just pull the rain cover over my range backpack to hide the Molle and carry it on my back like a day-hike pack. No one would assume I’m anything other than a Boy Scout leader. I do the same with my 42” double rifle case but while that isn’t obviously a rifle case when carried on my back, people DO wonder what’s in there and often look twice.
Really nice dedicated options. I might also suggest a “trendy” branded backpack from one of the more popular outdoor companies like north face, patagonia, or a house brands from rei, etc. Not always big enough for larger platforms, but definitely discreet in a hiking/student kinda concealment concept. Only downside is leaving it exposed for theft in a vehicle, but that goes for any gear bag honestly. One of my favorite bags is actually a rather bright one I got on clearance. No one would guess it’s got a roni and some stick mags in it.
I have found tool bags to be very useful for handguns. Have a bag that came with a cordless drill set I got a couple of years back is amazing. Divided into three compartments, can carry four pistols, five boxes of ammo, hearing and eye protection with no problems. Better yet, a tool bag looks appropriate if it is on the heavy side.
Tool bags contain tools ... a prime theft target as thieves can easily sell or pawn tools.
That said, I confess to carrying my pistols to the range in the ubiquitous brown and green tool bag.
great choices. i have been using a modified hard cello case for my tack drivers (long guns) for years. a friend uses a golf club bag, but sorta stands out in the winter...