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

Kimber 1911 Ds Warrior Gotw 1
Kimber 1911 Ds Warrior Gotw 1

Gun of the Week: Kimber 1911 DS Warrior LW

In 2026, Kimber developed its 1911 DS Warrior, an American-made, double-stack design that is intended to be an affordable entry point into Kimber's double-stack handgun line.

The Armed Citizen® April 24, 2026

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

Spin Difference: The Impact of Barrel Twist Rates on Terminal Performance

When most shooters think of rifling-twist rates, they mostly think of rifles with their high BC projectiles, but the rpm of a bullet also plays a part in terminal performance.

Beretta's 1301 Tactical vs. A300 Ultima Patrol Shotguns: Which Should You Choose?

Ever since Beretta launched the A300 Ultima Patrol shotgun in 2024 as a less-pricey alternative to the 1301 Tactical, shotgunners have debated whether the 1301 is worth the extra cost. Let's examine them both.

ZEV Technologies Escaping Washington State’s Hostile Political Climate

ZEV Technologies announced it is moving its headquarters and manufacturing operations out of Washington state to Utah’s Second Amendment-friendly business climate.

U.S. v. Hemani Arguments

On March 2, the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments in U.S. v. Hemani. The case involves a defendant who is fighting a federal indictment for possessing a firearm while being a marijuana user.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.