From your tactical gear to your snacks and drinks, everything you would want on a trap shooting trip can be put inside a range bag. The best thing about these bags is that they are durable, offer good storage, and are extremely affordable. Moreover, they come in various sizes and colors, so you can choose one that’s strong but also aesthetically appealing.
Table of Contents
What Gear Should I Put in My Range Bag?
Range bags are huge and offer a lot of compartmentalization. They also have small and large pockets at the front and backside where you can keep things like your glasses, earmuffs, or boxes of shells. Here is a list of everything that you can put in your range bag.
Safety Items
Trapshooting is very exciting, but it can also be slightly dangerous. There is a very high chance of you getting gunpowder in your eye or getting injured on the field. This is why you should always keep all the safety items mentioned below in your bags. They will help you make the most out of your trip.
Shooting Safety Glasses
When it comes to safety, wearing shooting glasses is absolutely essential. They not only protect your eyes against any hazards but also ensure greater safety against any potential mishaps. When you fire your guns, cartridges are usually ejected from them. These can seriously damage your eyes, which is why these glasses are crucial.
- Anti Fog Anti Scratch Polycarbonate UV400 Lens blocks 99.9% of harmful UV rays
- Soft Rubber Nose Pieces for a comfortable fit without the slipping.
- Wrap-around Lens gives full side vision and maximum protection.
- Lightweight Semi-rimless Black Frame gives you preferred comfort.
- Comes with a zipper hard case, easy to carry and protect your safety glasses from damage, scratch and dust …
Earplugs or Ear Defenders
Just like your eyes, your ears also need to be protected. Professional shooters tend to spend a lot of time on the field and are hence susceptible to ear damage. This is because the gun usually makes a loud noise when you pull the trigger. So always wear earplugs to keep your hearing safe.
- CUSTOM MOLDED EARPLUGS: Easily and quickly fitted to the exact shape of your ear. This creates a perfect fitting earplug that will never hurt, never fall out and provide superior noise isolation.
- EASY SHAPE SYSTEM: Simply heat the Decibullz thermoplastic molds in boiling water, let them cool for a bit, and shape them to your ears. That's it, and If you don't get the perfect fit the first time Decibullz are the only custom earplugs that are re-moldable …
Rapid-Application Tourniquet
During shooting, one can never eliminate the chance of injuries. Rapid Application Tourniquet is a smart device that can be used to stop any effects of hemorrhaging caused by trauma on the field. Additionally, you can use the device for different body parts, so it is definitely worth investing in.
- Easy to Use - The RATS (Rapid Application Tourniquet System) Tourniquet is easy to learn and us.
- Simple Design - The design of the tourniquet is very simple, allowing for one handed use in cases where no other assistance is available.
- Small & Compact - It can be rolled up into a compact size for putting in first aid kits, survival kits, or anywhere you see fit to carry it …
Emergency Personal Injury Kit (EPIK)
This is one of the most important things that you need to keep in your range bag. In many instances, a rapid application tourniquet will not work, and you will need to have a full-fledged injury kit on your hands. This will contain things like gauzes, medicines, ointments, and bandages.
- Recon Medical GEN 4 Orange Tourniquet
- Shear
- Emergency Blanket
- Z-Fold Gauze
- 4 inch Bandage
Rain Jacket
In cities where the weather is unpredictable, this is one of the most important things to keep in range bags. A rain jacket is either a coat or slicker that offers good resistance against water and snow. You can either buy a rain jacket till waist length, or you can pair it up with rain pants to make it into a complete rain suit.
- WATERPROOF TECHNOLOGY: You’ll love our Columbia Men's Glennaker Lake Rain Jacket, it features our Hydroplus waterproof nylon fabric for the ultimate in lightweight, wet weather, protection and comfort.
- COMPACT AND PACKABLE: A versatile waterproof jacket with an attached hood to ensure complete rain coverage, while its packable design lets you stow it away into its own chest pocket. Perfect for when the last drizzle subsides …
Gloves
Many shooters don’t like to wear gloves when they are trap shooting. However, these may come in handy sometimes. Shooting gloves are expensive, but they last for a considerably long time, making them a good investment. They are also made of a durable material that ensures longevity.
Gun Accessories
Imagine going to a trap shooting many miles away from home, but when you reach your destination, you realize that you forgot your accessories at home. Quite annoying, right? This is why we suggest you always keep your accessories in your range bag. Some things you should definitely include are:
Boxes of Shells
There is no trap shooting without shells. They come in small sizes and cannot be dumped into the bag. They are usually packed into smaller boxes to ensure time efficiency later. Additionally, you will need to have a box of empties in your range bag.
- Deep design for 3 1/2" shells
- Holds twenty-five 10 or 12 gauge magnums
- Latch opens easily, even with gloves
- Holds shells in the down position
- Features mechanical hinge; Made in USA
Dummy Rounds
Dummy rounds come in handy when you want to do a little bit of practice before you start trap shooting. These are used for dry firing, which is simply pulling the trigger without any active ammunition. Since your chamber has dummy rounds, you will not actually be firing with actual ammunition.
Snap Caps
Dry firing is something that almost all shooters do; however, not many people are experts in the technique. A snap cap ensures that designs don’t cause any impact or stress damage to the firing pin or the barrel breech. In this way, a snap cap is used to protect the weapon’s firing pin when you move it forward.
Choke Tubes
If you don’t use any choke or even an open choke, you are more likely to experience a relatively shorter range. To ensure that you get long-range, you need to keep choke tubes in your range bag. These will constrict the gun’s shot charge and will hold it together for a significant amount of time before your shot spreads.
- Fits huge 20 Gauge choke Systems
- Improved cylinder .615 constriction
- Made from 17-4 heat-treated stainless steel
- Lifetime Warranty. Made in the USA
- Choke wrench included
Wad Punch out Tool
This is one of the most integral things for shotgun reloading. Most units come with a number of lightweight aluminum tubes that will snap together with a shock cord. This special telescoping tool will snap to help ensure barrel unplugging with debris or a stuck wad.
Cleaning Rod
A dirty gun is a faulty gun, as most shooters say. A cleaning rod will help ensure greater reliability and functionality for your gun. You surely don’t want to experience unpredictable performance caused by a buildup of residue and grime.
- One piece carbon fiber rod
- Advanced quality for better cleaning
- Ergonomic handle
- Premium double ball bearings
- 8 inch rod for 22 caliber pistols
Cleaning Supplies
Continuous usage of the firearm can hinder its performance over time. If you are a serious shooter who is looking to up their game, make sure you clean your gear regularly. To ensure space management, make sure you keep smaller bottles or items to ensure comfort and convenience.
Gun Oil
Before anything else, you want your gun to be in top shape. This is where gun oil comes in handy. It not only helps protect the metal from moisture and rust but also reduces the wear on your gun. So make sure to apply some gun oil to bores, gas pistons, and even bolt carriers.
- 2 OZ HOPPES NO 9 CLEANER SOLUTION - Ultra Effective and potent solvent for removing primer, powder, lead and metal fouling for preventing rust. Quick, super-efficient, safe and easy to use. Flows freely and penetrates rapidly.
- 2 OZ HOPPES NO 9 LUBRICATING OIL - High viscosity oil refined to perfection for use in firearms, fishing reels and other precision mechanisms. Does not harden, gum or become rancid. Gives extra-long service …
Tools
Having the right tools will prove monumental to your success on the field; that much we can guarantee. Here are all the tools you need to know to indulge in the most exciting trap shooting experience.
Knife
A knife is a multi-purpose tool that comes in handy in a number of scenarios. You can not only use it to prepare meals during trap shooting, but it can also act as a self-defense device for you.
- Dimensions: 7.1 Inch (18 Cm) Overall Length With A Blade Length Of 3.1 Inches (7.9 Cm) And A Weight Of 3.5 Ounces
- Durable: Blade Is Made Of Reliable 7Cr17Mov Black Oxide High Carbon Stainless Steel With A Black, Aluminum Handle
- Dependable: Quick And Easy Access With The Convenient Pocket Clip, Finger Flipper And Ambidextrous Thumb Knobs Making It Ideal For Everyday Carry …
Multitool
Trapshooting is unpredictable. You will never know when something breaks or requires some fixing. A multi-tool contains a variety of diverse tools that come in handy during these situations. So have one in your range bag at all times; it might just save your day.
Duct Tape
Whether it’s tying a broken clay pigeon, or fixing an accessory, duct tape can come in useful at any given time. This small tool is strong enough to fix just about anything. It’s also very lightweight and sleek, so it will not take up much space in your range bag.
Flashlight with Extra Batteries
Most trap shooters shoot in the daytime; however, on days when you are having too much fun, you can also lose track of time. Even when your range is fully lit, it is important to have some flashlights with you at all times. To be on the safe side, make sure to also keep some batteries in the bag.
- Ribbed design for secure grip
- Easy to operate push-button switch
- Up to 5X Brighter than ordinary LED technology
- Long Runtime features LED Technology
Essentials
Until now, your bag contains gun accessories, some basic tools, and safety items. However, there are some other essentials that you should include in your range bag. These include:
Keys, Tools, and Documents
Shooting is a rather intense game and can make you forget about your surroundings. Keeping things like keys and gadgets in your pockets is unsafe. This is where a good range bag gets useful. You can keep important documents like licenses and ID cards securely in your bag.
Notebook and Pen
Writing down your progress on the field can help you better hone your skills. A small notebook and pen are useful for not only tracking your progress but also write about any important takeaways from your shooting excursion. Rereading these notes in the future will surely help you out.
Water
Even when you are having the most immersive shooting experience, it is important to not forget about the important things in your life. You need to keep at least two water bottles in your bag to help you stay hydrated on your field. You will definitely be sweating a lot.
Snacks
It goes without saying that running around on the field will make you hungry. You will hence want to eat something light and bite-sized. Keeping healthy snacks like chocolates, chips, and protein bars can give you the required energy to kick start your day.
Sunscreen
Gone are the days when following passions came with a catch. If you want to have flawless skin before and after your fun trip at the range, then we recommend you keep good sunscreen with you at all times. This will surely help you avoid any tan and will keep your skin safe.
Hand Wipes
From your guns to clay pigeons and other equipment, you will surely be touching a lot of things while you are on the field. But at the same time, you will also be eating and drinking. It is hence always safe to have some hand wipes with you at all times.
What to Look For in a Range Bag?
Looking at reviews and buying a range bag based on that is quite naïve. A model that suits your friend may not necessarily suit you. This is why we suggest you look at things like bag color, number of compartments, durability, and price before you choose any model. So, when choosing a range bag, make sure you look out for the following;
Storage Space and Number of Compartments
There’s no need to keep separate bags for your essential items when you can keep all of your belongings in one large bag. Contrary to what people think, this does not mean you have to get a suitcase-sized bag. The best thing about range bags is that they come with a plethora of compartments. This not only helps keep you organized but also ensures greater convenience on the field.
Most bags available today have enough space to keep around four guns, tens of boxes of shells, and all your important accessories. Furthermore, good range bags come with both small and large-sized pockets on the front and the back. This makes it easier for you to keep all your small belongings like earmuffs, safety glasses, and snacks inside. Additionally, these bags come with zippers to provide greater safety for your accessories.
Portability
A lot of shooters have to travel a considerable distance before they can reach their shooting range. This is where portability comes in handy. A portable range bag is not only easy to carry but also saves your time and energy. There are a couple of styles that you can opt for.
Backpack Styles
Remember how easy it was for you to carry your backpack in school? Carrying one as an adult is fairly easy, too. All you have to do is keep all your essentials inside and let your shoulders and back bear the weight. This is convenient because the weight of the bag will be equally divided on both of your shoulders. This will prevent any muscle spasm.
Shoulder Strap
As the name suggests, this is when you hang your bag from your shoulder. Although very convenient and easy, a shoulder-style range bag can cause muscle strain. This is because you are making one side of your body withstand the entire load. However, to avoid this, you can simply switch between both your muscles.
Handle Strap
Innovation is never bad, and this style proves that. Most range bags in the market come with handle straps that are extremely durable. Like with shoulder straps, you can switch hands to prevent any strain on your limbs.
Material and Durability
The greater the durability of the range bag, the more appealing it is; whoever said it certainly had a lot of experience using these bags. Apart from all the features that we have mentioned above, you need good construction for sustainability. Most bags in the market come with a 600D polyester build. This allows for unmatched durability and strength. It also ensures that your bag can withstand any kind of pressure or external change. Additionally, these bags boast a good warranty.
However, if you have a slightly higher budget, we recommend you go for the 1200D denier polyester build. As the name suggests, this is relatively stronger and can hold its ground for much longer. On top of that, models that are made with this polyester tend to break or tear less easily. So if you are looking to invest in a bag that will last for the longest time, we suggest you go for this option.
The kind of material that you use is also important because of a number of other things. Firstly, any serious trap shooter is likely to put a lot of heavy things like guns, clay pigeons, gun accessories, and additional tools in their bag. This means that they will be significantly adding to the weight of the bag. A good unit will be able to withstand this weight easily. Secondly, the kind of material that you use will add to its cost. So make sure you choose wisely.
Additionally, you can go for pull-out-rain-fly material that will further prevent any rain and tear, especially when the weather turns bad.
Water Resistance
This is perhaps one factor that a lot of people don’t take seriously, but they really should. Trapshooting is done in the open, and if there is one thing that can always occur in the open, it’s rain. Good range bags offer greater resistance against water. They also ensure that regardless of how much moisture exists outside, the interior lining will not be damaged.
Additionally, they ensure that none of your precious gear is damaged. So, if you don’t want your hard-earned money to go to waste, we suggest you look for a bag with greater water resistance.
Conclusion
Once they are on the field, trapshooting enthusiasts don’t want to think about anything else. All they want is to hit as many clay pigeons as possible. But in many instances, the lack of accessories or the lack of organization completely ruins their trip. If you can relate to all of this, then you are surely in need of help.
In the above article, we have not only highlighted all the important things you need to look out for in your next range bag, but we have also explained why each of these features is worth considering. So once you have chosen your favorite bag, make sure you put in all your important accessories inside. Having everything with you will make sure you have no problem on your trapshooting trip!
