There are many range bags available on the market today. Gun owners who are interested in organizing their equipment and accessories properly have a lot to choose from. It can get pretty confusing, sometimes. Some bags are meant for everyday civilian carry, while others are geared more towards professional use by law enforcement or military.

A range bag, by definition, is a bag meant to be used by the average shooter when going to the firing range. It can be used for more than that, of course. Many range bags can double as hunting bags, on-the-go bags, and even diaper bags! But, essentially, a range bag is made for that specific purpose. They usually comes with one or two pouches and pistol rugs, for safekeeping a weapon while in transit.

There are several range bags which were very popular from the very beginning, and which have become best-sellers over time. They have proven themselves time and time again, and they manage to stand out thanks to their construction, their storage abilities, and their overall value. We are going to discuss them, and their pros and cons.

Best in Show: Gunmate vs Blackhawk vs Explorer

The three range bags which we consider to be the best out there, for the average shooter, are ones manufactured by Gunmate, Blackhawk, and Explorer. These companies are well-known, in and out of the United States, and they are respected by those who have had the chance to use their products. The specific models in question are:

Gunmate Range Bag

Blackhawk Sportster

Explorer Rangemaster

These are the top three range bags being sold today. They come highly recommended, are fit for a shooter on a budget, and – most importantly – they do what they are meant to do, and they do it well. With any one of these bags, you get an item which is worth the money, and is a great investment.

We will be examining the following features: dimensions, materials, compartments (and pistol rugs), price, and warranty as they relate to Gunmate vs Blackhawk vs Explorer.

Dimensions

• Gunmate Range Bag
  • Width: 16 inches
  • Height: 8 inches
  • Depth: 7 inches
• Blackhawk Sportster
  • Width: 16 inches
  • Height: 8 inches
  • Depth: 9 inches
• Explorer Rangemaster
  • Width: 18 inches
  • Height: 14 inches
  • Depth: 10 inches

All three bags come with a removable shoulder strap, and two carry handles. The Explorer’s strap and handles are padded, but the others are not. The Gunmate shoulder strap does come with a small shoulder piece, made of tough plastic.

Materials

Gunmate Range Bag: Nylon

Blackhawk Sportster: 600 D Polyester

Explorer Rangemaster: 600 D Polyester

Compartments

A range bag should ideally have at least one pistol rug, as well as a place for magazines. An option to lock the compartments is also a necessity, and in some places (looking right at you, California) it is even the law.

• Gunmate Range Bag
  • Main compartment with adjustable Velcro partitions
  • Two lockable side compartments with a pistol rug in each

• Blackhawk Sportster
  • Main compartment with adjustable Velcro partitions
  • Two lockable side compartments with a pistol rug in each

• Explorer Rangemaster
  • Main compartment with adjustable Velcro partitions
  • Front and rear compartments with magazine pouches and two pistol rugs
  • Two zippered side compartments for additional weapons and accessories

Price

These prices are only an average price. You could find them for more and you could find them for less, but these are the going rates for the top 3 range bags.

Gunmate Range Bag: $25

Blackhawk Sportster: $30

Explorer Rangemaster: $50

The Explorer’s price is the highest, and rightly so. It has more compartments and pockets, which make a difference. The carrying handles and strap are padded, which also brings the price up a little. All things considered, these bags are priced in accordance with their features and abilities.

Warranty

Gunmate Range Bag: 12 months

Blackhawk Sportster: Lifetime

Explorer Rangemaster: Lifetime

All three bags are practical, useful, and durable. These represent the best of the best for the average shooter. If you arrange your bag properly, you could probably fit between 3 – 5 pistols in these bags, and still have room for all the necessary accessories.

Conclusion

The idea behind the range bag is simple: have everything you need by your side, so you spend more effort on shooting, and less on locating what you need. This saves time, money, and energy all at once. Some people may wonder why it would be necessary to purchase a range bag to begin with. Technically, any ordinary bag or pack can become a potential range bag. While that statement is not untrue, let’s face it: some bags are better than others. Stuffing your guns, ammo, targets, eye and ear protection, and cleaning accessories into a backpack (or other less-appropriate storage apparatus) will most likely result in a mess of loose boxes, bullets, bottles, and brushes. Not exactly fun. A firearm is a deadly weapon, and it needs to be treated with respect. If you’re going to train – do it right.

With a range bag, you know exactly where your stuff is. These bags are built to last, made of sturdy nylon and high-strength polyester, and the partitions make it even easier to arrange your gear. They are the perfect bag to take along for a day at the range, be it outdoor or indoor. These bags are made with strong enough material, so even though they are not defined as waterproof by their manufacturer, they are somewhat water resistant. Your mileage will definitely vary, but this has been my impression.

The ability to lock your bag, and its designated gun-holding compartments in particular, is another major plus. The zippers on these bags are high quality, and they provide the necessary space needed to insert a small lock. This is a feature which you will not necessarily find with a different bag.

Now, look. I am certainly not trying to push something on those who do not need it. If all you ever do for practice is take a single gun to the range, along with maybe one box of ammo – these bags may not be for you. If that is your thing, then I agree that these bags are unnecessary. Their multiple compartments, slash pockets, and magazine pouches become quite useless. These bags are primarily meant for shooters who have some equipment to carry, and who want to do so in a secure, fast, and easy manner.

Furthermore, once the sun has set on your day at the range, you can use this bag for so many other activities. Its ease of access and durability make it ideal for hunting, hiking, camping, survival, and any other outdoors-y kind of thing. I have even heard of those who use a range bag as a diaper bag, taking advantage of all of the compartments and pockets.

One thing is clear: these bags deliver.

The post Gunmate vs Blackhawk vs Explorer – Top 3 Range Bags appeared first on Gunivore.

Explorer has been in the bag business since 1994. They have a great line of quality storage solutions and firearm accessories. On their website, you will be able to find pouches, packs, cases, holsters, vests, bandoleers, and even wallets and purses. There are bags for law enforcement personnel, military personnel, medical personnel, and everyday civilian men and women.

Two of their most popular items are the Explorer Tactical 12 Pistol Padded Gun and Gear Bag, and the Range Ready bag (sold on Amazon as product name “Explorer Large Padded Deluxe Tactical Range Bag”).

Explorer Tactical 12 Pistol Padded Gun and Gear Bag

The gun and gear bag is a perfect size. It is large enough to hold any and all essential range (or duty) items. The bag manages to be small enough to easily be used in a variety of situations: in the field, on duty, or simply thrown in the back of your car as an on-the-go kind of bag.

There is a lot of padding, which ensures that all sensitive objects are well-protected. Furthermore, the large number of pockets, loops, and compartments makes certain that everything is in its right place. When organized properly, this bag is a huge time saver.

The bag comes with a detachable shoulder strap – also padded – which can be removed with ease and speed. There are also two carry handles. Altogether, there are 13 different compartments in the gun and gear bag. You can tell that Explorer definitely had tactical use in mind when designing this product.

There are dual zippered exterior front pockets, as well as an ID pocket. The bag includes elastic loops for attaching any kind of accessory. For smaller items or objects, there are two side pockets on both ends of the bag. This bag is ideal for two handguns, and to facilitate that there are two gun pockets with a center support strap. A large front compartment is available for any additional weapons or gear which the owner may need.

The main compartment has a roll-up, double-zippered flap, which comes with a hook and loop fastener. This bag is constructed of 1000 D heavy-duty ballistic nylon. It loses a bit of the flexibility which the 600 D polyester has, but it is very strong. This is part of what makes Explorer bags so popular. People know that durability is the name of the game with Explorer, and they appreciate it.

The gun and gear bag comes in a variety of colors, so it can really fit a large number of people and purposes.

Exterior dimensions: 16 inches x 11 inches x 10 inches

Main compartment interior dimensions: 12 inches x 9 inches x 9.5 inches

Explorer Range Ready Bag

The Rangemaster gear bag is made of 600 D polyester. This gives you the makeup of a great bag, which can handle a lot of weight and last up to a lifetime. It comes with a padded shoulder strap, and two padded carry handles. Every compartment is lockable, and to that end there are two heavy-duty zippers which can fit a lock through them.

The rear compartment has four magazine pouches, and the front one has seven magazine pouches. The main compartment comes with removable dividers, which can be completely removed or arranged to the liking of the owner. Customization can add a lot to a bag, and it can help you make it your own. This way, you know exactly where everything is, all the time.

The Explorer Rangemaster is THE range bag. It is designed for carrying multiple pistols to the range, along with any essentials, accessories, and tools – things like brushes, pens, targets, lube, oil, rags, or extra ammo. Everything you need.

Part of what makes this bag the ultimate range bag was that it was designed and constructed based on actual feedback from range instructors, police officers, and SWAT. This means that once you arrange your bag the way you like it, it is all safe, secure, and ready for action.

There is some additional plastic at the bottom of the bag. Padding is everywhere, because Explorer cares about the safety of your valuables, firearms, and accessories. The zippers on this bag are top quality, as is the stitching. It can take a lickin’ and keep on tickin’. Although, if your bag is ticking, there may be something wrong… the point is, this bag may be the only one you will ever need. Fit for the range, the field, the woods, or the back of your car.

Exterior Dimensions: 18 inches x 14 inches x 10 inches

Main compartment interior dimensions: 12 inches x 12 inches x 9 inches

Is it Worthwhile to Carry a Shooting Range Bag?

True to their name, Explorer is constantly exploring. They are always looking for the best materials, the best designs, and the best manufacturers, in order to produce the finest bags and packs the world has seen. Explorer’s bags are shipped all over the world, and they are famous for their stability and ability to take abuse without failing.

These two bags are very roomy, and you can probably even carry four or five handguns in it. You may need to purchase additional pistol rugs, but it can be done with no problem.

As for the price: the gun and gear is about $50, on average. The Rangemaster is about $45. These are very reasonably priced, and the value is unquestionable. Getting what you paid for? That’s normal. Exceeding the customer’s expectations? That is talent. Explorer does have bags which are a lot more expensive, but when it comes to the everyday shooter – either one of these bags will be more than enough for a nice day at the shooting range.

Some consider a range bag to be luxury. I don’t feel this is really accurate. Could you technically survive without one? – yes, you could. You could also take your guns and ammo to the range in a black garbage bag, if you want to. But if you are serious about gun ownership and serious about training with your weapon – perhaps this Rangemaster Explorer bag review has encouraged you to do some more research, go the extra mile, and order yourself the proper range bag for you. It makes a big difference, and it is an investment which is worth making.

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