The Best Bow Case in 2023 (Hard-Soft-Compound-Recurve)  

A compound bow or recurve bow is a substantial investment and you should protect that investment by buying the best bow case that you can afford.

Our team of bow hunters and archery enthusiasts have reviewed 13 different bow cases and will show you the best hard cases, best soft cases, best for airline travel, best for compound bow, best for recurve bow and more.

After extensive testing, we have found the Pelican 1745 bow case to be the best that we have tested.

Best overall

Pelican 1745 Bow Case

Pelican 1745

Editor's Choice

Case Club Bow Case

Case Club

Best Soft Case

Legend Apollo Compound Bow Case

legend apollo

If you would like to know more, keep reading.

Best Bow Case At A Glance

Best Bow Case Overall

Pelican 1745 Bow Case - Best Bow Case For Air Travel

Pelican 1745 Bow Case

The Pelican 1745 is the Holy Grail of bow cases, with loads of storage, TSA locks and an extremely durable build, but all of that comes at a price and the price is high.

It is made out of super light HPX²™ Polymer which is also incredibly durable and lighter than other top rated hard bow cases.

The Pelican 1745 features stainless steel bearing wheels that glide effortlessly on hard surfaces and make air travel a breeze.

It is completely waterproof and dust-proof thanks to a watertight o-ring gasket. No more worry about travelling with your bow in the bed of your truck.

It also features an automatic purge valve that equalizes pressure to insure that water and dust cannot enter the case.

One of the things that sets this case apart from the others we have tested is the TSA approved Press and Pull™ latches, which have been tested in extreme conditions for pressure changes and forceful impact. They perform flawlessly, keeping everything inside secure and then easy to open afterward.

Your arrows will fit perfectly and there is plenty of room and storage for your bow release and all of your other accessories.

The Pelican 1745 uses a Molle System to safely secure your bow and accessories inside the case.

What We Like

  • We love how light this case is.
  • The wheels on this case are super smooth rolling.
  • The press and pull latches are a game changer.
  • Easy to stay organized with room for all your tools and accessories.
  • We love the lifetime warranty.

What We Don't Like

  • The Molle System takes a little getting used to.

The Pelican 1745 will be the last bow case that you will ever buy.

It is that good.

Best Hard Bow Cases

SKB iSeries 3614 Bow Case - Best Parallel Limb Bow Case

SKB iSeries 3614 Bow Case

The SKB iSeries 3614 hard case is both highly durable and secure. It has custom foam that contours to compound bows perfectly. This snug fit is great for keeping your bow in one place.

The exterior of the case is resistant to water, dust, corrosion, fungus, and even UV rays. 

It also features a pressure equalization valve which guarantees that water and dust cannot penetrate the interior of the case.

This case is TSA-approved, which means it definitely has a lot of protection and security. We also love its trigger release latches that provide extra protection so you can secure your contents and prevent theft.

The only major drawback of this case is how bulky it is. However, the manufacturers did take this into account, and there are a few features that help to offset its size. 

For example, it has in-line skate style wheels for easy transport through airports and on hard surfaces. There are also 3-cushion grip handles that help with carrying it. 

It is an ideal bow case for air travel, or just transporting your bow in the back of your truck, either way your bow will be protected.

What We Like

  • We love the wheels for transporting through airports
  • Durable
  • Good tight fit for most bows
  • TSA Approved
  • Waterproof and dust tight
  • We love the lifetime warranty

What We Don't Like

  • Does not fit all bows

The SKB iSeries 3614 parallel limb bow case has excellent durability and security, and it’s TSA-approved, so you know it ideal for air travel. It also comes with a lifetime warranty. Keep in mind that it only fits bows up to 35" long.

Case Club Waterproof Bow Case - Best Compound Bow Case

Case Club Bow Case

The Case Club Compound Bow Case is great because its interior is super organized. It has high-quality foam fitting with carved sections. These sections keep your compound bow firmly in place. 

Besides the bow, there’s also storage space for accessories and tools. However, you cannot keep quivers, optics, and sights. There is integrated arrow storage for 12-arrows under the lid.

The outside of the case is hard and has a hydro-absorbent canister that uses silica gel. This means that it’s waterproof, airtight, won’t rust, and won’t fall apart. 

There are small wheels attached underneath the case that allow you to move it around easily.

What We Like

  • Heavy-duty
  • Excellent protection
  • Good storage
  • Long-lasting
  • Airline-approved
  • We love the lifetime warranty.

What We Don't Like

  • Will not hold quivers or large sights

The Case Club Compound Bow Case is an amazing choice for the price and comes with airline approval but does have some drawbacks. 

SKB Cases Hunter XL  - Best Compound Bow Case For The Money

SKB Cases Hunter Series 2SKB-4117 Hard Bow Case

If you’re on a tight budget and want a premium case, then this SKB hunter is the best value for your money.

The case has a length of 38.75 inches, a width of 14.75 inches, and a depth of 5.13 inches. It can fit a wide diversity of bows, ranging from Mathews Monster to Bowtech Captain.

It is also very lightweight at only a little over 10 lbs, making it very easy to carry.

The high-grade ABS hard plastic construction makes it tough and sturdy. It will protect your bow from bumps, drops, and less-than-ideal weather conditions. However, its external dimensions are large and thick.

To compensate, the manufacturer has added comfortable grip handles for portability. Plus, you can store up to 12 arrows with room for other accessories. The foam offers a snug fit, which means no matter the position the case is in, it won’t misplace the gear.

There are metal, lockable latches attached to the case that provide extra protection so you can secure your contents and prevent theft.

What We Like

  • Durable
  • Good storage
  • Added security
  • Long-lasting
  • 5-year warranty included

What We Don't Like

  • Thick and bulky

The SKB Hunter bow case has a feature-rich profile in an attractive price range. It’s durable, versatile, and secure. Although portability and size is a slight concern, there are nice features for the price. And let’s not forget the 5-year warranty!

Plano 1108110 Bow Guard AW Bow Case - Best Value Hard Case For Bow and Arrow

Plano 1108110 Bow Guard AW Hard Bow Case

The Plano 108110 AW Bow Case is rugged and has thick walls, so it can withstand any kind of damage. 

Like any other Plano product, this case uses the innovative PillarLock system which makes the case crush proof. 

Not only will the case not fall apart, but it will also keep the bow equipment inside secured. There are additional tie-down straps to avoid damage.

The Plano case also has elastomeric arrow storage that fits both regular and carbon fiber arrows. The storage also allows for a fully-loaded quiver, and the case comes with spring-assisted dual-stage latches for security.

What We Like

  • Sturdy PillarLock Construction
  • Holds arrows securely
  • Room for accessories
  • Lockable latches
  • Lightweight for easy carrying
  • Approved for airline travel

What We Don't Like

  • Velcro straps that hold the bow in place can come off during rough handling

The Plano 108110 AW bow case is a sturdy and secure bow case that is approved for air travel. 

Flambeau Outdoors Safe Shot - Best Budget Bow Case

Flambeau Outdoors Safe Shot Bow Case

The Flambeau Outdoors Bow Case has a hard shell exterior made from high-strength plastic. Its rugged construction offers great protection for your bow equipment.

It also features an internal lid and base column supports that provide crush resistance, so your bow will remain undamaged even if the case is impacted by sudden force. 

The case features a foam bed in which you can snugly store the compound bow and bow sight. There are tie-down straps to secure the bow safely in its place.

However, look out for the velcro straps inside that expose the metal screw heads. If you’re not careful, the screw heads might scratch or damage the bow.  

This case measures 47.5" x 19.25" inside and 48.75" x 20.5" externally  – plenty of space most compound bows. The dedicated arrow storage rack stores up to a dozen arrows.

The arrow rubber racking system offers easy access, tightly gripping the arrow shaft for maximum protection.. 

Also, the case has four lockable latches to keep your equipment safe, all with a convenient carrying handle for archery on the go.

What We Like

  • Sturdy build
  • Locks
  • Portable
  • Built-in blade broadhead changer
  • Accessory storage

What We Don't Like

  • Exposed metal screw heads

All in all, the Flambeau Outdoors Safe Shot is a hard compound bow case that provides more than adequate protection. It has great features in terms of security and portability.

Plano Protector Compact Bow Case - Another Highly Rated Budget Option

Plano Protector Compact Bow Case

If you’re looking for a simple case that stores your bow and not much else, then this Plano Protector Compact Bow Case is the ideal choice for you!

It has a rigid exterior with dimensions of 43.25 x 19 x 6.75 inches, so this case is best for storing and transporting smaller-sized bows. Make sure to measure your gear accurately before purchasing this case.

The hard shell keeps the bow safe from damage and any adverse weather conditions. No water or sudden force will hurt your valuable bow equipment when it's in this case, which also comes with a high-density foam interior for extra padding.

Its design firmly holds parallel limb bows with tie-down straps to secure the bow in its place. You’ll also find integrated arrow storage under the lid.

However, there’s space for only a few arrows. This case doesn’t have lots of tie-down storage for other tools and other accessories. If you want to pack more items, they’ll rattle around in the case.

Overall, the patented PillarLock system ensures extra protection and security for your archery gear. Plus, the case has airline approval, which means you can take it with you while traveling.

What We Like

  • Offers good protection
  • Lockable with PillarLock system
  • Arrow storage
  • Easy-to-use
  • Airline-approved

What We Don't Like

  • No extra accessory storage pockets

The Plano Protector Compact is a good investment. It’s a hard bow case that will keep your bow protected and safe, but its functionality remains limited beyond that.

Plano Protector Ultra Compact Pillar Locked Protective Bow Case

This case is another product made by the reputable manufacturer Plano. However, this Plano Protector Pillar Bow Case caught our attention for other reasons besides the well-known name.

This case has an ultra-compact build. It’s small, narrow, and more lightweight than most of the other models available online, so it makes transport and usage incredibly easy for the smallest of bows.

We highly recommend this case for beginner compound bows for youth and women. The ergonomically-built and appropriately-sized case ensures young archers can learn to take care of their equipment properly.

Like the previous Plano model, this bow guard case also has a rugged construction. It’s weatherproof and damage-resistant, making it perfect for the outdoors. 

On the inside, the case features high-density foam to hold the bow in place. There are also adjustable tie-down straps that allow your equipment to stay put.

The case uses the company’s unique patented PillarLock system for crush-proof strength. The Plano bow guard case also has arrow rubber racks that allow you to easily store six arrows under the lid, but no extra storage for much else.

What We Like

  • Compact
  • Padded protection
  • Sturdy design with PillarLock Construction
  • Lockable
  • Made in the USA

What We Don't Like

  • No additional accessory storage

The Plano Protector Compact is a good investment. It’s a quality case that will keep your bow protected and safe, but its functionality remains limited beyond that.

Plano 10-10630 Bow Guard - Best Cheap Bow Case

Plano 10-10630 Bow Guard SE 44 Bow Case

The Plano Bow Guard nails it in terms of balancing functionality and design. It has a monotonous black exterior with rounded edges, and it doesn’t take up a lot of space.

Please note this case doesn’t have versatile dimensions and only works for specific bow models. Make sure to measure your bow and compare it to the case dimensions before making your purchase! 

Inside, the bow guard case is really spacious. You can store a fully loaded bow quiver (in-line and offset). 

The case features angle-locking foam that holds 12-standard arrows. There are also holding straps to secure the limbs and strings of your equipment for easy transport.

What We Like

  • Long-lasting
  • Good storage
  • Easy-to-use
  • Fully loaded quiver storage
  • Lightweight and easy to carry
  • Made in the USA

What We Don't Like

  • A little flimsy

The Plano Bow Guard is not a premium, high-end option, but it does offer excellent functionality and performance. With durability and a lot of storage, it’s definitely worth the cost. 

VISTA Traveler Takedown Case - Best Takedown Recurve Bow Case

VISTA Traveler Takedown Bow Case

Are you looking for the best affordable takedown recurve case? If so, then this VISTA Traveler Takedown Case is an excellent choice!

This product is a hard recurve bow case made from weather-resistant materials. The case keeps all dirt, debris, heat, and water away from the contents inside. 

The case has large dimensions that can fit a bow of up to 62 inches long, but you’ll need to separate the limbs and riser before storage. 

RELATED: SAS Courage Takedown Recurve Bow Review

There are molded structures in the high-density foam that offer a snug fit. Once stored, your archery gear won’t move an inch from its place. 

Plus, you’ll also find integrated arrow storage. You can conveniently store around 18 long arrows in this case.

Luckily, there are additional compartments for gear storage. You can store small items, such as an armguard, string, bow stringer and more. There’s even a built-in broadhead wrench. 

RELATED: SAS Spirit Recurve Bow Review

What We Like

  • Portable
  • Holds up to 18 arrows
  • Weather-resistant
  • Built-in broadhead wrench
  • Accessory pouches

What We Don't Like

  • Does not have a rubber gasket to keep water and dust out

The VISTA traveler bow case is an excellent choice for takedown recurve bows. It is one of the few traditional hard bow cases available. You can take it to regular practice sessions, and it is approved for air travel.

Best Soft Bow Cases

Legend Apollo Bow Case - Best Soft Compound Bow Case

Legend Apollo Compound Bow Case

The Legend Apollo is a soft case that will keep your bow in outstanding condition during travel. 

It has a dual-colored exterior and is available in various color options, including orange, gray, red, and blue. You can customize the bow case according to your own personal tastes.

The case also comes in two different internal length sizes, 40 and 44 inches, so you can choose the right one for your bow type.

Furthermore, the case features a water-resistant nylon shell on the outside that keeps the bow protected from rain or water spillage. On the inside, there’s a thick foam padding that has shock-absorbent qualities.

The case has a lightweight design with a padded shoulder strap and neoprene handle. These features enhance portability and comfort during transportation.

Lastly, the Apollo bow case has unrivaled storage. Its spacious interiors allow for any additional bow tuning tools or hunting gear you could want. There are wide pockets that allow you to keep all your items in one place.

These pockets have heavy-duty zippers for protection and hook-loop closures for easy access. You will also find convenient accessory straps for keeping everything snug.

What We Like

  • Lightweight
  • Lots of storage
  • Good protection
  • Different color choices
  • 100% money-back guarantee

What We Don't Like

  • Padding is thinner than expected

In a nutshell, the Legend Apollo works great for traveling. It offers excellent storage and protective features. It also includes a 30-day 100% money-back guarantee.

Summit Olympus Bow Case - Best Rated Soft Bow Case

Summit Olympus Compound Bow Case

When it comes to bow and arrow storage capabilities, nobody does it better than the Summit Olympus. With dimensions of 41" x 5" x 19", it’s a large case that can fit most bows.

As for portability, the bag is delightfully lightweight at 3.9lbs. Plus, it has convenient carrying handles and straps.

Its portability makes it perfect for taking it on hunting trips or to the range to practice shooting archery targets. It’s large size, while bulky, is also useful because you can store more items in the case. 

It has 10 exterior pouches to store accessories and personal items. There is plenty of room for both the bow and arrows on the inside as well as additional items on the outside pockets. 

What We Like

  • Heavy-duty
  • Tons of storage
  • Excellent protection
  • Available in various colors
  • Very lightweight

What We Don't Like

  • Velcro straps could be longer

The Summit Olympus Bow Case is a great option if you want lots of storage. We also like that it's available in a variety of fun colors. 

Silfrae Compound Bow Carry Bag - Best Budget Soft Bow Case

Silfrae Compound Bow Carry Bag

The Silfrae Compound Bow Carry Bag is one of the most portable options on this list. It’s a soft bow case that doubles as a carry bag, making it best for archers who travel a lot.

There are adjustable shoulder straps and handles, so you can carry it around as a regular case or even as a backpack.

This case has a sturdy, weather-resistant build made from 600D canvas. This ensures that no dust or debris will damage your valuable equipment. Inside, the bow case has foam for padded protection.

It also has a molded section and a handy tie-down strap that keeps the bow in one place. However, please note the internal dimensions of the bag are 44"(L) x 16"(W). It’s not capable of holding larger bows.

The case also comes with external and internal pockets that allow you to store additional equipment, like a bow release, broadheads or broadhead tool.

What We Like

  • Durable
  • Easy-to-use
  • Good protection
  • Additional storage
  • Money-back guarantee

What We Don't Like

  • Will not fit very large bows

The Silfrae Carry Bag has excellent features designed to enhance portability. Its innovative design enables you to use it as a case and backpack. Plus, it also comes with a 100% money-back guarantee.

Best Bow Case Comparison Table


Model

Interior Size

L X W x H

Airline Approved

PRICE

Pelican 1745 Bow Case

Best Bow Case

Pelican 1745 

44"x16.8"x7.9"

YES

SKB iSeries 3614 Bow Case

Best Compound Bow Case

 SKB iSeries 3614 

35"x14.25"x4

YES

Case Club Bow Case

Best Hard Bow Case 

Case Club Waterproof Case

44.5"x14.3"x6.2

YES

Legend Professional Bow Case

Best Soft Bow Case 

 Legend Professional 

44"x16"x6"

YES

Plano Protector Bow Case

Best Bow Case For The Money 

Plano Protector 

43"x19"x6.7"

YES

Why Do You Need a Bow Case? 

The two most common ways to damage your bow are dry firing and dropping it. While bow cases won't help if you dry fire your bow, they will certainly provide protection if you drop it.

Bow cases are not just any old accessory for your bow. They are a critical tool to help your bow avoid damage, and having a bow case makes it a lot easier to hold all your equipment.

All cases come with a handle that make them easy to transport, so you can take your bow on the go. 

Besides storage, the case offers necessary protection. Most cases use advanced padding technology that keeps your bow safe from any critical damage. 

The bow case is also really useful if you’re traveling in a car with your bow.  

Bow cases are also useful in airline transportation, because the majority of them are certified for airplane travel. Many cases have wheels so that you can roll them through airports.This is great if you frequently go on vacations or hunting trips with your bow. 

Types of Bow Cases 

There are three fundamental types of bow cases. Each one has a design built to fit specific types of bows. Choose one according to the gear you own.

Compound Bow Cases

A compound bow features a levering system made from pulleys, cables and cams. It uses this system to store energy, which makes the arrow shoot with more power and speed. 

These bows are compact and heavy-duty, and usually are shaped like the letter D, or they will have parallel limbs.

Recurve Bow Cases

People sometimes confuse recurve bows with long bows. While they do look alike, the limbs of a recurve bow curve away from the archer, hence the name.

Longbows and some recurve bows are made from wood and need protection from the elements.

Since you have to unstring recurve bows, the bow cases have a compact design that lets you store the limbs separately. 

Click here for a guide on how to choose a recurve bow.

RELATED: DeerSeeker Recurve Bow Review

Crossbow Cases

The crossbow case is noticeably different from standard bow cases. It kind of looks like a small hammerhead shark, and it’s used very differently from a regular bow. Crossbow cases often feature arrow storage space and accessory pockets as well. 

It’s really nice to be able to store all your equipment in one place! 

As crossbows become more mainstream and legal to hunt with in most states, hunters are having a difficult time choosing a crossbow vs compound bow.

Features to Consider in a Bow Case 

There is a wide range of bow cases available on the market. The vast amount of options can make choosing one pretty complicated. 

We’ve made it simple by compiling the essential factors to consider when purchasing a bow case or giving one as a gift. Use these metrics to find your perfect bow case easily!

Soft vs Hard Bow Cases

Bow cases are categorized as either hard or soft cases. Each type comes with its specific pros and cons. 

The hard bow case has a rigid exterior that offers unbeatable protection to the bow inside. It doesn’t matter if it’s awful weather or a large fall — a hard case will survive any damage and keep the bow and accessories, like a fragile drop away arrow rest, safe and finely tuned. However, they are bulky and heavier, unlike their counterparts.

You cannot carry them on your shoulder easily. Plus, they occupy extra space. Comparatively, the soft bow case has a flexible, soft outside.

Because it’s softer, it’s usually lighter and makes it much easier to carry your bow. However, because there’s no hard outer shell to protect the bow, a soft case offers a lot less protection than a hard bow case. 

Overall, we recommend choosing a hard bow case, because protection is the most important factor when it comes to choosing the right bow case for you. If you travel by air a lot, look for a hard bow case that comes with wheels so that it’s not too difficult to carry through airports. 

RELATED: Keshes Takedown Recurve Bow Review

Dimensions 

It’s important that you make sure that the external and internal dimensions of the bow case match your bow. Bow cases, just like bows, come in many different sizes. Be diligent with your measurements! 

We recommend leaving a few inches on each side to make sure that the bow fits. 

Quality 

The quality of the bow case determines how long it will last. On average, high-quality bow cases will last a lifetime. However, there are some bow cases that we’ve found can only last for five years or so. 

Opt for a case that uses premium, weather-resistant materials. These types of bow cases tend to last the longest and also do the best job of protecting your bow against the elements.

Portability 

Your bow case should be compact and lightweight. This makes carrying it easy and hassle-free. 

Look for sturdy shoulder straps, carry handles, or even wheels to enhance portability. It’s better if the bow case also features additional tie-downs.

Storage Space 

Generally, a bow case will feature adequate space for the correct type of bow and a few arrows. Getting a better case that comes with a lot of extra storage can make your life so much easier. 

Some bow cases have room for a dozen arrows or adjustable compartments to store all types of accessories such as arrows, bow release, bow sight and more. 

Security 

Most bow cases today have a bunch of security features that keep the bow secured. Features like lockable latches ensure that your bow and accessories do not get stolen. This is especially useful if you take your case on airplanes

Best Bow Case Brands

Pelican

Pelican makes some of the best bow cases on the market today. They also make gun cases, camera cases, travel suitcases, vehicle cargo cases and more.

Flambeau Outdoors

Flambeau Outdoors is a world-famous outdoor goods manufacturing company. It produces equipment for hunting, fishing, and tactical activities.

Plano Molding

Established in 1952, Plano Molding has introduced several innovative and premium-quality outdoor tools to the market. It has a lot of hunting and fishing products.

SKB Cases

SKB cases has been producing bow cases since 1977. They make some very high quality bow cases and rated very highly in our hard cases above.

FAQ

Do You Need a Case for a Compound Bow?

Yes, you need a case for compound bows. The fundamental purpose of a bow case is to help store, transport, and protect the bow. It’s essential to have a case if you are traveling at all.  

What is a TSA approved bow case?

A TSA approved bow case is a hard bow case that has a lock that can be opened by the TSA so that They can inspect the contents. The TSA has a special key that can open these locks.

Where Do Archers Keep Their Bows?

Traditionally, archers keep bows in a bow case and store them in a climate controlled environment. Keeping them in a garage or attic is not recommended as the fluctuations in temperature can stretch the bowstring and damage the limbs.

Can You Carry a Bow on Your Back?

Yes, you can carry a bow on your back using a bow sling. You can always improvise the fit of a bow sling by using a towel, which will also help keep your back and bow protected. 

Conclusion

Everyone from an experienced archer to a beginner bow hunter should be equipped with a high-quality bow case. Bow cases helps store, carry, and protect your valuable bow and its accessories. This guide has given you plenty of great bow case options to choose from for a compound bow or recurve

Overall, our team of experts most highly recommends the Pelican 1745 Bow Case. It has a ton of storage, is very durable, and is secure.

Photo of author

John VanDerLaan

Hi folks! I'm John VanDerLaan and I have a deep passion for the outdoors, and deer hunting in particular. I am what you call a year round deer hunter. I am in the whitetail woods year round preparing for the next years season and I love to share the knowledge that I've gained over 40 years of chasing the wily whitetail! In full disclosure, it is safe to assume that I am an affiliate for products that I recommend. I will make a commission if you buy through my link. You will not pay more when buying through my link. In fact, oftentimes I have negotiated a lower price (or bonuses) for my readers than you will find anywhere else online. Also, when you buy through my link, it allows me to continue to provide you with tons of FREE valuable information through this website!

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