Are you one of the lucky archers who lives near a hunting ground or shooting range? If you are, then going for a target practice session is very simple. Just get your bow from the shed, travel to the grounds and you can start firing off shots.
But not everyone is that fortunate. For some archers, traveling with archery equipment requires a bit more planning. One thing that can help though is buying yourself one of the best bow cases. Such archery cases are designed to keep your bow safe and intact.
In the following guide, we’ve reviewed the best cases for recurve and compound bows. We’ve also included all the information needed to help narrow down your options.
For the best bow case for air travel, the Legend Everest Hybrid is the ultimate choice. Right off the bat, you’ll notice that this case is more expensive than others. However, it contains advanced features making it well worth the price.
One of its key highlights is the fact that it’s well-constructed. It comprises a metal frame with additional thick foam padding. The interior also contains a thick denier fabric to further protect your bow from hard impact.
The Everest Hybrid comes in two different sizes: 40- and 44-inch. Thanks to this, you can pick the one that corresponds to the size of your bow. Whichever version you pick, the case provides enough space that can fit two bows.
Though it’s on the heavier side of things, this compound bow case has several features that ease its portability.
These include two front handles and heavy-duty wheels for easier navigation through an airport. It even has an airline-approved TSA lock to keep all the contents completely secure.
Finally, the Legend Everest hybrid case can hold a lot more than just your bows. It’s equipped with interior mesh pockets, 2 zippered pouches, and 3 front pockets.
If you don’t want to spend an arm and a leg on a new bow case, the Plano brand offers an excellent alternative.
Their Plano Protector Compact Bow Case is much cheaper, coming in at a very reasonable price. But as implied in its title, it’s also more compact so it can only fit one bow.
On a more positive note, the case offers a high level of protection. You don’t have to worry about your bow getting any dents or scratches when you carry it. This is thanks to the thick wall build and high-density foam interior.
Besides, the interior is fitted with some adjustable tie-down straps. This ensures that all your accessories remain in position throughout the transportation period.
Another feature that sets the Plano bow case apart is the fact that it can hold parallel limb bows. A parallel limb design offers a couple of benefits like minimizing vibration and providing better weight balance.
Other than bows, this case has a storage compartment underneath the lid. This is meant for storing arrows.
Also worth mentioning is that this is an airline-approved bow case. So if you’re looking for a smaller case that you can travel with, this is just what you need.
Searching for the best compound bow case with bigger storage space? If you are, the Plano 108110 Bow Guard Guard AW Bow Case is an excellent choice.
There’s a lot to love about this case, starting with its ability to protect compound bows. Plano achieves this using an ultra-thick built, crushproof PillarLock system and a weatherproof seal. All these elements work nicely together to protect your bow and archery equipment from damage.
Bows aren’t the only thing that you’ll be able to carry. The case features elastomeric arrow storage that accommodates both standard and carbon fiber arrows.
A quiver storage unit has also been included. But if you decide to store your quivers, you’ll need to buy a mounting bracket for them separately.
With this bow case, you’ll never have to worry about the security of your archery tools during travel. This is because it’s equipped with spring-loaded lockable latches.
Have you always wanted to buy a soft compound bow case? If you have, look no further than the Legend Bowarmor 92.
One thing we like is that this compound bow case is designed with protection in mind. The exterior is made of tear-resistant nylon while the interior contains a soft tricot lining. You’ll be particularly impressed with the ultra-thick padding found on each surface.
According to Legend, they worked in tandem with hunting and archery experts to create this sophisticated case for modern compound bows. This explains why it has premium-quality features.
For instance, it has a generous storage space in the interior. To be specific, the inside compartment is 44.5 inches long and 15 inches tall. This gives you plenty of room to store your compound bow.
The case also has an exterior pocket, providing extra space for storage. This is big enough to hold a telescopic arrow tube case, where you can keep all your arrows.
Another reason why we consider this among the best soft cases entails its portability. Legend added a closed-cell foam padding, resulting in extra comfort when you carry it. This also makes the case feel a bit light on your shoulders and arms.
Best Recurve Bow Cases
5. SAS Recurve Takedown Bow Case
Have you been searching for the best recurve bow case? If you have, the SAS Recurve Takedown Case is precisely what you need.
This is a soft case, so it’s pretty lightweight and portable. In fact, it weighs just slightly over 1 pound making it among the lightest cases in our review. Despite the fabric, it offers a decent amount of protection thanks to the nylon construction.
There are a couple of other aspects that we like about its design. For instance, it’s available in four different colors. So if you’re very picky when it comes to archery bow cases, you’re in luck.
The SAS Takedown case comprises a soft inner lining that helps to protect your bow from impact.
Another thing we love is that the SAS case is uniquely designed for takedown recurve bows. This is why it contains separate pockets for the limbs and riser. It also has a front zipped pocket to hold smaller accessories and a detachable shoulder strap.
The arrow tube holder is another handy addition. However, the actual arrow tube is not provided so you’d have to buy it individually.
Do you own a takedown bow and are looking for a bow case that can accommodate it? If you are, you will love the Vista Traveler Case designed specifically for this purpose.
The case measures approximately 37” by 11” by 6” and weighs just slightly over a pound. What we like about its design is its generous length. While other bow cases can only hold a couple of arrows, this one can comfortably fit 18 arrows up to 34 inches long.
Arrow storage aside, the case offers several other compartments. These provide enough space to fit small-sized items like an armguard, finger tab, and gloves just to mention a few.
Another reason why we consider this the best recurve takedown bow case is the level of protection it offers. It’s made of a weather-resistant exterior, protecting your archery tools from inclement weather. Plus, it has snap closures to prevent unauthorized access.
Yet another case that’s designed specifically for a recurve bow is the SKB iSeries. It’s on the higher side of the price spectrum. The good news is that it also has several cutting-edge features that make it among the most high-quality bow cases.
For instance, it’s equipped with in-line skate-style wheels. With the wheels, navigating this case is a cinch no matter where you’re taking it.
Security is another area where the SKB iSeries truly shines. It comes with four trigger release latches keeping the contents of your bow case completely secure. Four reinforced padlock locations are also incorporated, further improving its security.
Looking to invest in one of the best soft bow case for a recurve bow? If you are, you can’t go wrong with the Legend Streamline 2 Takedown Archery Case.
At first glance, you can tell that this is more of a backpack than a bow case. The good thing about this design is that it’s very comfortable to carry. This is achieved by incorporating padded shoulder straps and a handle on the side.
Another feature that makes this among the best soft cases entails all the extra space you get to carry your archery tools. Whether it’s your precious bow, pin sights, quivers, or bow release, it’s got you covered.
Worried that your arrows will get damaged in transit? Well, you don’t need to be as the Streamline 2 includes a sturdy arrow case, guaranteeing maximum protection. To add to this, this soft case includes a large nylon zipper to further enhance security.
Benefits of Using Bow Cases
There are a few archers who don’t own bow cases, and that’s totally fine. Perhaps they have a different storage unit or rack for their bows, and shoot on their own property. However, if you travel with your bow often, a bow case is an indispensable investment.
Transporting
If you plan to move around with your bow, a bow case is your safest bet. The case makes it easier to transport your bow from one point to another, especially if it’s a heavy model.
Storage
Even if you don’t travel with your bow often, a case provides safe storage space. This is crucial not only because it protects your bow but also because it prevents unauthorized access.
Typically, recurve and compound bows are stored in a slightly different way. While a recurve bow is left unstrung, a compound bow usually remains strung.
Regardless of the approach used, it’s not advisable to leave your bow completely exposed. It can get dents, scratches, and nicks just to mention a few.
And if you have pets or small kids who’re likely to tamper with it, then the bow poses a safety hazard. The easiest way to combat these problems is to invest in a proper bow case.
Hard vs Soft Bow Cases
When you’re considering getting a new bow case, one decision you’ll have to make is choosing between hard and soft models.
The main selling point of hard bow cases is the fact that they offer better protection. Such a case contains a rigid exterior, guaranteeing maximum protection to the contents inside. So whether you’re going on a hunting trip to a dense forest or target shooting at the shooting range, your bow remains intact.
That said, hard cases have their fair shares of drawbacks. The biggest setback of a hard bow case is its bulky and heavy structure. This is not the sort of case that you can carry on your shoulder. Not to mention, it takes up quite a bit of storage space.
But, if you’re looking for unmatched protection, a hard bow case is the way to go. Here are a couple of points you should consider when picking this bow case:
Thick Material
The highlight of this case is its tough exterior. As such, it should be made of thick material that’s capable of withstanding an array of elements.
Customizable Padding
The best hard bow case typically contains pull-and-pluck foam. This enables you to configure the case to accommodate other accessories like arrows and quivers.
A soft bow case, on the other hand, is way lighter. As you might have guessed from the name, it’s made of a soft material, making it easier to transport. However, because it lacks the hard outer shell of its counterpart, it offers less bow protection.
Here are a couple of pointers to keep in mind when choosing soft cases:
- Preferably, its exterior should be constructed using Cordura or similar tear-resistant fabric
- The padding ought to be thick enough to protect your bow from hard impact
- It should also have several compartments, allowing you to store the arrows, quiver, and bow individually
Choosing between these two boils down to how you intend to use them. If you travel by air a lot, then hard bow cases are your best bet. The hard plastic materials used for their exterior will provide utmost protection.
But if you’re looking for something that you can carry with ease, then a soft case is better. Oftentimes, such a bow case is fitted with extra features like a shoulder strap to make transportation easier.
Choosing the Right Bow Case
There are a couple of things you should look for when picking a bow case. These include:
Type of Bow
Before anything else, think about the kind of bow that you own or are looking to buy. Do you have a target or hunting compound bow? Is the recurve bow you have, a takedown or traditional design?
Manufacturers make cases that suit different types of bows. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution so it’s crucial that you account for the bow type.
While you’re at it, be particularly careful if you own a crossbow. Crossbow cases are an entirely different ball game, due to the unique shape of the bow.
Air Travel & Security
Are you the kind of archer who takes flights frequently? If you are, then you’ll want to invest in an airline-approved bow case.
Such bow cases are typically more expensive. But, they also contain additional features that make them travel-friendly. For instance, some come equipped with wheels. This makes them easy to move around in high-traffic areas. For the same reason, others also contain handles and shoulder straps.
For security purposes, a bow case designed for travel also often includes latches or a locking system. This ensures that no unauthorized person can access the case and its contents without your consent.
Another factor you’ll want to look for when choosing a travel bow case is sturdiness. Chances are, the case will be subjected to all sorts of abuse. So to avoid damaging the bow, ensure that it’s sturdier than typical bow cases.
You’ll also want to consider the likelihood of your archery equipment being screened. To ease the inspection process, use a TSA-approved padlock that’s easy to access.
If you opt for a combination lock or other gadget that the TSA can’t access, it may be boken to provide accessibility to the contents inside.
Size
If you’re thinking of buying a brand new bow case, the first thing you should do is measure the size of your bow.
Specifically, note down the furthest dimensions of your bow in terms of width, height, and depth. This will help you determine whether your bow will fit in the interior of the case.
For takedown bows, the most crucial measurement to account for is the limbs’ length. Determine if the length of the case corresponds to or is slightly bigger than that of your limbs.
On the same note, consider just how much gear you’d like the bow case to hold. If you’d like it to hold all your archery accessories, then ensure that it has extra space /pockets to accommodate them. Similarly, if you’re looking to carry two bows, a double bow case makes for a better investment.
Protective Features
The core reason for buying a case is to protect your bow from damage. So naturally, the first thing you should check is whether it has any protective features, such as:
Padding
One thing you should think about is the surface against which your bow will be resting.
To protect your bow from a hard impact, the case should at least have high-density foam padding. This applies to both hard and soft cases.
When examining the padding, ensure that it’s consistent and thick enough to protect the bow from bumps and jostles.
Tie-downs
Once you’ve put your bow inside the case, you don’t want it shifting from one side to the other during transit. This is where a tie-down comes in handy. It allows you to secure the bow and other accessories in position.
Crush-resistance
Pay attention to the material used to make the bow cases. Is it described as crush-resistant? Can it withstand a huge amount of weight and stress without being crushed? If you answered yes to either question, the case is a safe bet.
Tear-resistance
When examining the materials used to make the archery case, check whether it’s tear-resistant. If you’re an archer, especially one who bow-hunts, you’ll be carrying the case through under bushes and other tearing hazards. So it’s crucial that the exterior material is tear-resistant.
Don’t go for archery cases whose exteriors are made of micro-fiber or flimsy non-nylon fabrics as they can tear easily.
Extra Features
Waterproofing
Thinking of bringing a bow case to your camping or hunting expedition? Or, do you expect to travel by boat or shoot in wet conditions? If you don’t want your bow to come into contact with water, be sure to buy a waterproof bow case.
For such situations, hard bow cases offer the best water resistance. Still, you’ll want to pay close attention to the seal between the two halves. This seal should at least have a rubber gasket that can keep water and snow out.
If you prefer a soft case, then ensure it contains a nylon or Cordura exterior. Such materials are water-resistant so they’ll prevent your bow from coming into contact with moisture.
Wheels
Wheels are another handy addition to a bow case. The weight of a simple bow case can add up pretty quickly. This is particularly the case if you’re packing multiple other accessories like a dozen arrows, quivers, and arrow rests among others.
Latches and locks
If you’ll be traveling with your case, especially by air, ensure that your bow case has a sturdy locking system. This way, no one can gain access to its contents even if it’s not within sight.
While you’re at it, look for a TSA-approved lock. This makes it easy to get your bow case screened while still keeping your accessories secure.
Conclusion
If you’ve been looking to buy an archery case, the first point you should consider is the kind of bow you have. The best bow cases are those that can comfortably accommodate the size and design of your archery bow.
On that note, the Legend Everest Hybrid is ranked one of the best cases for compound bows.
The case features foam padding, which helps to absorb shock. There’s also a tricot lining on the interior to protect your bow from scratches. This case is also airline-endorsed, allowing you to travel with it anywhere. If you’re looking for a recurve takedown bow case instead, consider the SAS Recurve Takedown model.
Available in different colors, this soft case comes completely padded with limb and riser compartments. There’s a separate pocket on the rear for holding arrows and an extra front pocket for holding smaller accessories.