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Gear Court: Blackhawk! … a Secure Investment

I recently tested BLACKHAWK’s Homeland Security Discreet Weapons Carry Case.  I was looking for a durable rifle case, and I found it in this case.  BLACKHAWK! has a reputation for producing quality products, and this rifle carry case is another impressive example.

When selecting a rifle case, the features I look for include the following things: thickness of the padding, storage of magazines, sturdiness of the zipper, and sufficient interior dimensions. 

The BLACKHAWK! Homeland Security Discreet Weapon Case is available in the following dimensions:

  • 22” x 2” x 10”
  • 29” x 2” x 10”
  • 32” x 2” x 13”
  • 35” x 2” x 10”
  • 40” x 2” x 12”

This case met most of my needs, but there were a couple of traits that could be improved (at least for my needs).  The case definitely provides sufficient protection for rifles.  In addition to the regular padding, this case provides a removable .375” closed cell foam pad.

The exterior pocket of the case is lined with a row of hooks and loops to which pouches can be attached.  There is sufficient space to store many magazines.

There were two issues I encountered with this case.  First of all, I have a mounted light, which I mount on the support side of my rifle.  For accessibility, I cannot mount my light in any other location, and still activate it without changing my grip.  The case is not deep enough to accommodate the style and position of my light.  This requires me to remove my light; this is not an ideal situation in my line of work.  Under normal conditions, this issue probably won’t pose a problem.  Also, this may be a moot point if the user mounts their light on the upper or lower rail, or does not mount a light at all.

The second characteristic, which I have yet to conclude if it is positive or negative, is the Velcro straps. The straps can be attached in a variety of positions on the interior hooks and loops to secure the weapon.  On one hand, the straps secure the gun should the zipper fail.  At work, I have witnessed many guns fall out of soft cases.  Since basic training, I still feel sick to my stomach when I see a rifle drop to the ground.  On the other hand, the Velcro straps in this case are so secure that I found it to be a challenge to get them off.  Under extreme stress, fine motor skills diminish.  If I am fumbling with the straps under normal conditions, it is probable that in an emergency I will have even more trouble.  On the positive side, you don’t have to use the straps.   All in all, this is one of the more durable and functional cases I have experienced.~Sara Ahrens.

This gear court reviewer received this product from the company for free.