Field Tested: Axelson Tactical Axe Advanced Rifle Case

by
posted on August 25, 2017
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
axe_007_01-axelson-cover_01.jpg
While some rifles enjoy a rather sedate working life consisting of occasional trips to the range and a cozy nook in a fireproof gun safe, other rifles are regularly dragged through all the tough and unfriendly conditions the great outdoors has to offer. Axelson Tactical recognizes that quality long guns deserve top-notch protection and easy transport. The company has developed the 3-in-1 Axe Advanced Rifle Case (ARC) to meet the needs of those shooting enthusiasts who insist on working and playing in rough-and-tumble environments.



Axelson did away with the relatively weak and leaky hinged clamshell type outer shell in favor of a single-piece hard plastic tube with a molded-in carry handle and strap loops that allow the shell to be secured to ATVs and other recreational vehicles. The removable end cap seals the tube snuggly, allowing the case to float or be buried in an emergency. Lockable end caps that meet air travel requirements are available.

 

Inside the tube is a 38" multi-function, padded soft carry case. The interior is designed to protect an AR type rifle with pockets for rifle magazines, a handgun, handgun magazines and an integrated hydration pouch carrier. Because the case fully opens and spreads out flat, it can serve as a shooting mat in a pinch.

The soft case can also be converted into a comfortable and useful backpack. With the rifle removed, the case is folded in half and secured using the integrated straps. The padded shoulder straps extend from a concealed pocket. Once configured as a backpack, the ARC provides full access to the interior pockets, hydration pouch and Mollie straps for additional accessories. Strategically located support straps allow the pack to carry the rifle without sacrificing any of the interior storage space.

This is one of those products that might sound like a gimmick or too-good-to-be-true at first glance. But that's not the case with the ARC. It's a well-designed system that lived up to my expectations. It's a smart set-up that makes traveling short or long distances with a rifle much easier while providing a hard case, a range bag and a tactical backpack all rolled into one. The ARC is available in Black or Dark Earth. MSRP: $159.95

For more, visit axelsonusa.com.

Latest

Gotw Springfield Armory Kuna 2
Gotw Springfield Armory Kuna 2

Gun Of The Week: Springfield Armory Kuna

In our latest Gun Of The Week segment, we hit the range with the Springfield Armory Kuna to get a better sense of how this PDW package really works and feels.

The Armed Citizen® Nov. 21, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

The Taurus 650: Embracing The Snubby Lifestyle

With more people embracing the "snubby lifestyle," companies like Taurus USA are providing capable self-defense platforms like the 650, a snag-free design that offers plenty of punch in a pocketable package.

White Flyer Supports Opening Of South Dakota Shooting Sports Complex

Thanks to a generous donation from White Flyer and Winchester Ammunition, South Dakota's newest shooting sports facility opened with plenty of targets available to shotgunners.

Walther Arms Suspends Production Of PPK Line

Walther Arms announced a suspension of its PPK, PPK/S and PP production lines, as the company plans what it calls a "multi-year modernization journey."

Rifleman Review: Colt Viper

As part of Colt's continued expansion of its second-generation "snake guns," the Viper revolver offers a compact, carry-ready variant that offers magnum power in a strong steel-frame format.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.