GunMate Range Bag w/Removable Hook & Loop Dividers Review

Let Me Tell You About the GunMate Range Bag w/Removable Hook & Loop Dividers

The GunMate Range Bag w/Removable Hook & Loop Dividers is a budget-friendly solution for transporting your firearms and accessories to and from the range. Manufactured by GunMate, it promises decent storage and organization without breaking the bank. As someone who has lugged gear in everything from repurposed duffel bags to high-end tactical carriers, I was curious to see if this offering could strike a balance between affordability and functionality.

For years, my primary range bag has been a well-worn 5.11 Tactical bag, a beast of a thing, meticulously organized but often overkill for a quick trip to the indoor range. I needed something smaller, more streamlined for those shorter sessions; something that wouldn’t require excavating through layers of gear just to find my earplugs. Other bags I considered were the MidwayUSA Competition Range Bag and the cheaper Allen Company Cedar Creek Range Bag. The Midway bag seemed great but was significantly more expensive, while the Allen bag felt too flimsy based on online reviews.

Upon receiving the GunMate Range Bag, I was immediately impressed by its apparent solidity. The zippers felt robust, and the stitching seemed clean. My initial excitement was tempered by the realization that the materials weren’t as heavy-duty as my 5.11 bag, but for the price, it seemed a very fair trade-off. This wasn’t a bag designed for hard-core tactical use, but rather for the average recreational shooter.

Real-World Testing: Putting GunMate Range Bag w/Removable Hook & Loop Dividers to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the GunMate Range Bag was to my local indoor range. I packed two handguns (a Glock 19 and a Sig Sauer P365), 200 rounds of 9mm ammunition, eye and ear protection, a small cleaning kit, and a magazine loader. The bag handled the load surprisingly well. It was noticeably more compact and lighter than my fully loaded 5.11, making it much easier to maneuver through the crowded parking lot and into the range.

The range was fairly busy that day, with people coming and going constantly. I found accessing my gear from the GunMate to be straightforward. The removable dividers allowed me to customize the internal space, preventing the handguns from bumping into each other during transport. No issues or surprises emerged during my first use; the bag performed exactly as I had hoped.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of weekly trips to the range, the GunMate Range Bag has held up surprisingly well. I’ve used it in both dry and slightly damp conditions, and the material has resisted any significant wear and tear. The zippers still function smoothly, and the stitching remains intact. The bag has proven easy to clean; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth removes any gunpowder residue or dirt.

Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper range bags, the GunMate has definitely outperformed my expectations. While it doesn’t offer the same level of ruggedness as more expensive tactical bags, it provides a very good balance of durability, functionality, and affordability for the average recreational shooter.

Breaking Down the Features of GunMate Range Bag w/Removable Hook & Loop Dividers

Specifications

The GunMate Range Bag w/Removable Hook & Loop Dividers isn’t brimming with cutting-edge features, but it offers a solid, practical design for its intended purpose.

• Size and Capacity: The bag’s dimensions are approximately 14″ x 9″ x 7″, offering a reasonable amount of internal space for handguns, ammunition, and accessories.
• Material: Constructed from a durable, water-resistant nylon fabric.
• Dividers: Includes removable hook and loop dividers to customize the internal layout and protect firearms. These dividers are a key feature, allowing for tailored organization.
• Pockets: Features external pockets for storing smaller items like magazines, cleaning supplies, or personal belongings.
• Shoulder Strap: Comes with a detachable, adjustable shoulder strap for comfortable carrying.
• Zippers: Equipped with heavy-duty zippers for secure closure. Reliable zippers are crucial for any range bag, and these seem up to the task.
• Price: Retails for around $43.49, making it an extremely budget-friendly option.

These specifications collectively contribute to the bag’s overall usability and suitability for carrying essential range gear. The removable dividers are particularly important, allowing users to adapt the bag to their specific needs.

Performance & Functionality

The GunMate Range Bag performs its primary function—transporting firearms and accessories—admirably. It is easy to load and unload, and the customizable internal space provides good organization. The bag’s size is well-suited for carrying a couple of handguns, ammunition, and basic accessories without being overly bulky.

One minor weakness is the lack of internal pockets. A few small mesh pockets would be helpful for organizing smaller items like keys, pens, or spare parts. Overall, however, the bag meets and even slightly exceeds expectations for its price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The bag’s design is simple and functional. The rectangular shape maximizes internal space, and the external pockets provide easy access to frequently used items. The materials used appear durable, though not as robust as those found in higher-end tactical bags.

The shoulder strap is adequately padded and adjustable, making it comfortable to carry even when fully loaded. The bag isn’t particularly stylish, but its utilitarian design prioritizes functionality over aesthetics. There is no significant learning curve involved in using the bag.

Durability & Maintenance

The GunMate Range Bag appears to be reasonably durable, considering its price. The nylon fabric is water-resistant and resistant to tearing. The zippers are heavy-duty and should withstand regular use.

Maintaining the bag is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or residue. The bag is unlikely to require any repairs under normal use. Its longevity is more than acceptable, making it a reliable option for regular range visits.

Accessories and Customization Options

The GunMate Range Bag comes with a detachable shoulder strap and the aforementioned removable hook and loop dividers. There are no other included accessories. Customization options are limited, given the bag’s basic design.

However, the internal space can be customized using aftermarket pouches and organizers. The bag is compatible with many universal hook and loop accessories, allowing users to add magazine pouches, cleaning kit holders, or other specialized storage solutions.

Pros and Cons of GunMate Range Bag w/Removable Hook & Loop Dividers

Who Should Buy GunMate Range Bag w/Removable Hook & Loop Dividers?

The GunMate Range Bag w/Removable Hook & Loop Dividers is perfect for recreational shooters, first-time gun owners, and anyone looking for a budget-friendly way to transport their firearms and accessories to the range. It is also a good option for individuals who need a smaller, more streamlined bag for shorter shooting sessions.

Those who require a highly durable, tactical-grade bag with advanced features and extensive organization options should probably skip this product. Serious competitive shooters or law enforcement professionals might find it too basic for their needs. A must-have modification would be adding some small, hook-and-loop compatible pouches for smaller items.

Conclusion on GunMate Range Bag w/Removable Hook & Loop Dividers

The GunMate Range Bag w/Removable Hook & Loop Dividers offers exceptional value for its price. It provides a functional, durable, and customizable solution for transporting firearms and accessories to the range without breaking the bank. It may not be the most stylish or feature-rich option, but it performs its intended purpose admirably.

The price is definitely justified, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious shooters. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable range bag. If you’re tired of hauling your gear in a cardboard box or an old backpack, give the GunMate Range Bag a try. You might be surprised by how much it offers for such a reasonable price. It’s a solid, no-frills bag that gets the job done, and that’s exactly what many of us need.