One Week with the Allen Competitor All-In-One Molded Shooting Bag
As a gear and equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments, from rugged outdoor expeditions to the precise demands of laboratory work and the gritty reality of workshop floors, I approach new equipment with a critical yet optimistic eye. The Allen Competitor All-In-One Molded Shooting Bag caught my attention as a potential solution for a recurring annoyance at the trap and skeet range: managing spent shells. The existing system, a collection of loose bags and pockets, felt inefficient and often messy. I was looking for something more integrated, something that streamlined the process and kept my hands free. My initial impression of this bag is one of sturdy practicality; its molded EVA construction feels robust, and the design hints at thoughtful consideration for the shooter’s needs. I briefly considered a simple canvas dump pouch, but the allure of integrated shell storage and dedicated pockets for accessories on this Allen model made it the more compelling choice. My immediate reaction upon unboxing was a sense of relief, a hopeful anticipation that this would finally solve a persistent field problem.
Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Competitor All-In-One Molded Shooting Bag to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing grounds for this shooting bag were the familiar environs of my local trap and skeet club. Over a full Saturday afternoon, I cycled through several rounds, intentionally filling and emptying the hull bag multiple times. The bag performed admirably under typical shooting conditions, enduring the dust of the range and the occasional brush against my side without complaint. Its ease of use was remarkable; the system for emptying the hull bag, a key selling point, worked exactly as described, requiring no awkward fumbling. My only minor surprise was the slight stiffness of the zippered pockets on the very first use, but this quickly resolved with use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and more than a dozen range sessions, the Allen Competitor All-In-One Molded Shooting Bag has proven itself to be a reliable companion. It consistently handles the daily demands of carrying shells and collecting hulls without showing any significant wear. The molded EVA material has resisted scuffs and maintains its shape, and the internal hull bag remains pliable. Maintenance has been a non-issue; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean, and it stores compactly when not in use. Compared to my previous makeshift solutions, this bag offers a significant upgrade in both functionality and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Allen Competitor All-In-One Molded Shooting Bag
Specifications
The Allen Competitor All-In-One Molded Shooting Bag is constructed from a durable molded EVA material, which gives it a semi-rigid structure that holds its shape even when empty. Its primary function is to carry shells and collect hulls, with a dedicated shell compartment that comfortably holds two standard 2-3/4 inch 12 gauge boxes of shells. This capacity is ideal for a typical shooting session, eliminating the need to carry separate shell boxes.
The standout feature is the removable drawstring hull bag. This inner bag is designed for effortless emptying; you simply roll the top, cinch it closed with the drawstring, and lift it out of the main shell bag. This makes discarding spent hulls a quick and clean process, a significant advantage over traditional dump pouches.
For additional storage, each side of the bag boasts a zippered pocket. These pockets are perfectly sized for essential accessories like choke tubes, a choke tube wrench, earplugs, or even a small cleaning cloth. Inside the rear zippered pocket, there are also three elastic bands specifically for choke tube storage, adding another layer of organization.
The bag is secured by a 2-inch-wide webbed belt that adjusts to fit waists up to 52 inches. The inclusion of a heavy-duty, metal, quick-release buckle ensures a secure and convenient fit. Two D-rings are positioned below the zippered pockets, providing useful attachment points for items like shooting glasses or a small towel. The bag’s dimensions are approximately 9 inches in length, 13 inches in width, and 3 inches in height, making it substantial enough to carry necessities without being overly bulky.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of the Allen Competitor All-In-One Molded Shooting Bag is to carry shells and manage spent hulls, and it excels at both. The shell capacity is precisely what a trap or skeet shooter needs for a few rounds, and the robust molded construction prevents the bag from collapsing and making it difficult to load new shells. The hull collection system is, without question, its most brilliant feature. The ease with which the inner bag can be removed and emptied is a game-changer for range etiquette and personal convenience.
The zippered side pockets are functional, providing secure storage for small but crucial items. I found them perfect for keeping my spare chokes and ear protection easily accessible. The elastic bands within the rear pocket are a thoughtful touch, keeping choke tubes from rattling around. The belt is sturdy and the buckle mechanism is reliable, ensuring the bag stays put even during movement. Overall, its performance consistently meets, and often exceeds, the practical demands of shooting sports.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this shooting bag is driven by practicality. The molded EVA material offers a nice balance between structure and a slight flexibility, ensuring it sits comfortably against the body without being rigid. The gray exterior with red accents is understated and functional, avoiding flashy colors that can be distracting. The overall feel is one of durability and purpose-built design.
Ergonomically, the adjustable belt and quick-release buckle make it easy to put on and take off, and to achieve a secure, personalized fit. The placement of the zippered pockets and D-rings is logical, putting frequently used items within easy reach. The drawstring closure on the hull bag is simple and effective, requiring minimal effort to operate. There is virtually no learning curve; the bag is intuitive from the moment you put it on.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on the materials and initial wear, the Allen Competitor All-In-One Molded Shooting Bag appears built for longevity. The molded EVA is inherently resistant to abrasion and cracking, which are common issues with softer fabric bags. The zippers feel robust and have operated smoothly through repeated use. I anticipate this bag will withstand years of regular range trips.
Maintenance is incredibly straightforward. A quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dust and debris. If it gets significantly dirty, a mild soap and water solution will do the trick. There are no complex parts to maintain or delicate mechanisms to worry about, making it a low-fuss piece of gear. The only potential point of concern over extreme long-term use might be the drawstring cord for the hull bag, but it appears to be made of durable material.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen Competitor All-In-One Molded Shooting Bag comes with its integrated features that function as accessories. The removable drawstring hull bag is a prime example, acting as a removable component that enhances functionality. The three elastic choke tube holders within the rear zippered pocket are also a specific design inclusion.
While there are no additional accessories included in the package, the design allows for personal customization through the two D-rings. These are perfectly suited for attaching accessories like a shooting towel, a small multi-tool, or even a ballistic glasses case. The belt system is a standard 2-inch width, meaning it could theoretically be swapped with a more specialized tactical or padded belt if a user desired, though the included belt is more than adequate for its intended purpose.
Pros and Cons of Allen Competitor All-In-One Molded Shooting Bag
Pros
- Innovative removable hull bag system makes spent shell disposal exceptionally easy and clean.
- Durable molded EVA construction provides rigidity and excellent resistance to wear and tear.
- Generous shell capacity for two 12 gauge boxes ensures you’re ready for multiple rounds.
- Well-placed zippered side pockets and internal elastic bands offer practical storage for accessories like choke tubes and tools.
- Comfortable and adjustable 2-inch webbed belt with a heavy-duty metal quick-release buckle ensures a secure fit.
- Two D-rings provide convenient attachment points for additional gear.
Cons
- The initial stiffness of the zippered pockets can be slightly annoying until broken in.
- While durable, the molded EVA material is not flexible, which might be less comfortable for some users than a softer fabric bag if constantly shifting position.
- The bag is designed specifically for 2-3/4 inch 12 gauge shells, offering limited versatility for other gauges or shell lengths.
Who Should Buy Allen Competitor All-In-One Molded Shooting Bag?
The Allen Competitor All-In-One Molded Shooting Bag is an excellent choice for serious trap and skeet shooters who value efficiency and cleanliness on the range. If you’re tired of managing a pile of loose hulls or fumbling with multiple bags, this product is designed precisely for your needs. It’s also ideal for individuals who appreciate well-thought-out gear that simplifies a specific task.
Those who should consider alternatives might be hunters who need a more rugged, all-weather bag with potentially larger capacities for various types of ammunition, or tactical shooters who require a more modular system. For anyone looking for a dedicated, user-friendly solution for shell and hull management at clay sports, this bag is a strong contender. A must-have accessory to complement this bag would be a small carabiner to attach to one of the D-rings for immediate access to items like a shooting towel or cleaning brush.
Conclusion on Allen Competitor All-In-One Molded Shooting Bag
The Allen Competitor All-In-One Molded Shooting Bag delivers on its promise of convenience and efficiency for the discerning trap and skeet shooter. Its standout feature, the removable hull bag, fundamentally improves the range experience by making spent shell disposal effortless. The durable molded EVA construction, coupled with thoughtful storage solutions for accessories, makes this a highly practical and well-executed piece of equipment. For its price point of $55.99, the value proposition is very strong, offering features and durability often found in more expensive alternatives.
I would personally recommend this bag to any regular trap or skeet shooter looking to streamline their gear and enhance their time at the range. It strikes a near-perfect balance between robust functionality and user-friendly design, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about the sport. If you prioritize a clean, organized, and efficient shooting session, the Allen Competitor All-In-One Molded Shooting Bag is a purchase you won’t regret.