BlackSmith Pistol Case
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I've tried my fair share of pistol cases over the years for everything from flying, to storage, to for range trips. While I've got what I need, I also remember well the struggles in getting to that point: Doubting the hardware store special, and not wanting to spend the big buck for the big name brands. With that in mind I agreed to take a look at what might just be the goldilocks middle ground between the premium and junk options.
What set the BlackSmith Pistol case apart from others for me was the strength and quality for the price (2-pistol for $59.99, 5-pistol in this article for $79.99, Wheeled 8-pistol for $109.99, and a wheeled 10-pistol for $149.99 on Amazon).
This case is built TOUGH. So much so that it's a bit over-built and heavy. At 7.7 lbs you it feels like it might be full even when empty. At first that was a turn off for me as I often fly with firearms, but after recognizing that my sample 5-pistol case would be too big to fit inside a piece of luggage I realized the weight doesn't matter because it's going to travel as it's own luggage piece and no amount of pistols I put in it will take it over the 50lbs luggage weight limit.
Speaking of travel, the BlackSmith Pistol case comes with two nice TSA-Approved locks. DO NOT ATTEMPT to fly with firearms that are secured by a TSA lock. Firearms specifically must be secured with a NON-TSA lock. I don't know why BlackSmith includes such locks with a product specifically marketed as a firearm case; I can only assume that's foreign ignorance of US laws.
One aspect that BlackSmith did get right about travel is the way the hinges and hasps are protected by ribs. I've had cases damaged by airlines and whatever protrudes is what gets beat up. This case has smart protection where it's needed.
Another smart feature is the way the area where the locks go is tapered thinner to make getting the locks in easier. Of course this also means it's a weak point once baggage handlers start tossing it around, but the polymer feels stronger than what I'm used to and is plenty thick.
The BlackSmith Pistol case is IP67 waterproof and dustproof; sealed by an O-ring. That means when changing altitudes the case may vacuum shut, so a pressure relief valve is included.
Inside is also smartly done in that the pluck foam is nice and thick. That should make for more structural integrity as wear and time try to turn your pretty case into a mess. Two sheets that are about 2" thick fill the case. Thicker than my Canik Rival Dark Side and Void suppressor.
To give an idea of total interior surface area, the long-barreled Canik Rival Dark Side, a Tion, Inc 45 Grenadier, Preciscion Armament TiTrex, and Canik VOID Suppressor all fit was reoom to spare. I typically don't pluck the foam of my cases as it seems I'm always transporting a different blend of guns and stuff. I'll either alternate sides between layers of foam, or just take one sheet out, insert things, and then stuff the gap with a rag.
Specs
Exterior Dimensions: 16.1"L x 13.5"W x 8"H
Interion Dimensions: 15.0" × 10.7" × 7.1"
Material Modified Polypropylene
Weight: 7.7 pounds
Price: $79.99 on Amazon
Overall I think the BlackSmith will do the job it was intended for. It may be a bit heavy, but I'd rather a solid case that's a bit heavy over a lighter one that falls apart or can't take the handling I need it to.
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