If you don’t want to lug your range gear around in a conventional carry range bag that takes up a hand and can hurt your back if you overstuff it, the GPS Handgunner Backpack is a great option. With it, you can carry your range gear hands-free and potentially pain-free. The backpack is a feature-rich solution designed to cater to the needs of handgun enthusiasts who desire a safe, organized, and portable storage solution. It’s not really designed for rifle or shotgun supplies, although there’s no law that says you can’t carry that stuff in it. But it’s really more optimized for handguns, which I’ll explain down below.
We’re going to take a look at the key features and functionalities of the GPS backpack, evaluating its performance, design, durability, and overall value for gun owners on the go.
Design and Construction
The GPS Handgunner Backpack boasts a robust and well-thought-out design that disguises itself as a typical urban or hiking backpack. You have to look closely to realize it’s a range bag. It’s not obvious except to the most discerning observer. While it’s not designed to be an EDC bag, it might help you get fewer dirty looks if you live in a gun-unfriendly locale and don’t want to draw attention to the fact that you’re going to the range.
Crafted from durable 100% nylon, this backpack offers excellent resistance against wear and tear, ensuring longevity even under demanding conditions. The backpack’s sleek and compact profile allows for easy transportation while remaining inconspicuous.
One notable design feature is the dedicated foam cradle located inside the backpack, which provides secure storage for up to four handguns. The foam cradle has been meticulously engineered to safeguard firearms against impacts, reducing the risk of damage during transportation. Furthermore, the cradle is customizable, enabling users to adjust the foam to fit their specific firearm sizes and shapes.
Functionality and Organization
The GPS Handgunner Backpack shines when it comes to functionality and organization. The old expression “a place for everything and everything in its place” fits perfectly.
For easy organization, the backpack also features a unique Visual Identification System (V.I.S.) that uses tabs with tiny pictures on each to categorize and locate different items at a glance. Often maligned for its “kindergarten” labeling system, I found this system helpful.
There’s a reason kids learn best through pictures. I think this clever and simple system saves time and eliminates frustration. I’m more than a little OCD, so this easy organization lets me relax a bit, knowing everything is where I put it for a reason. You’ll enjoy it, too.
Need to grab ear pro quickly before entering the range? Find the ear pro label, and bingo! You’re in business. Guess where the eye pro pouch is. Right next to the ear pro. Makes sense, right? You’re going to need them both anyway, so why not put them together?
If you’ve ever tried to carry handguns in a conventional range bag, you know the frustration of not having a dedicated place to put them. They get mixed in with the ammo, ear and eye pro, and anything else you carry in the typically large center pouch. Not so in the GPS Handgunner Backpack. At the bottom of the front is a large zipper that opens to reveal a hard foam carrier that holds up to four full-size semi-auto pistols, with almost an inch of foam between each one for maximum protection. Each slot is molded to hold the barrel end and trigger guard securely so they won’t rattle around while carrying the backpack, yet you have easy access to them all when you’re ready.
For added security, the zipper pulls can accommodate padlocks for travel or just to keep what’s inside away from grabby hands. Speaking of zipper pulls, each is adorned with a red paracord pull strap for easy grab and opening.
Comfort and Portability
The biggest reason for a backpack-style range bag is carrying comfort. The GPS Handgunner Backpack prioritizes comfort with adjustable padded shoulder straps and a sternum strap that distribute the weight evenly across the shoulders, reducing strain and fatigue. If you do want to carry it “regular style,” the backpack also includes a reinforced carry handle on top, offering an alternative grip option for short-distance travel or quick retrieval.
Security and Protection
Safety and security are paramount when transporting firearms, and the GPS Handgunner Backpack excels in this aspect. The backpack features a lockable compartment, allowing owners to secure their handguns by attaching padlocks to the zippers. This provides peace of mind during travel or when storing the backpack in shared spaces.
Additionally, the backpack’s robust construction and padded interior ensure that firearms and accessories remain protected from impacts and external elements. The combination of durability, customizable foam cradle, and lockable compartments instills confidence that firearms will remain secure and undamaged during transit.
Rain Protection
As mentioned above, the backpack is made from durable 100% nylon, which has a bit of rain protection already built in just because of the nature of the material, so simple spills or a bit of moisture probably won’t seep through. But there is another little hidden feature to keep the serious rain out and protect your goods. When a beautiful day shooting outdoors suddenly turns rainy and ugly, reach into the back of the top flap of the GPS backpack and quickly pull out the built-in rain fly. In seconds, you can cover the entire bag except for the straps. You’ll need those to carry it as you race back to your vehicle.
Price and Value
The GPS Handgunner Backpack stands out as a top-tier solution for gun enthusiasts in need of a reliable and secure transportation option for handguns and all their accessories. Its spacious design, Visual Identification System, and versatile storage options make it an excellent choice for shooters who value organization and convenience. With its durable construction and comfortable carrying options, it is a backpack that can withstand the demands of regular use.
The backpack is competitively priced at $149.00 MSRP and offers great value for gun enthusiasts. Considering its durable construction, thoughtful design, and practical features, this backpack provides excellent bang for your buck. It is an investment that will serve you well for years to come, ensuring the safe and secure transportation of your firearms.
