High Ground Media, LLC

Designed as a grip for daily duty or shorter barreled rifles, the Ultralight Utility Compact Grip (ULCG) by MKMachining gives the individual a more ergonomic angle, anti-slip texture, and a utility storage compartment over other aftermarket grip alternatives.

The ULCG includes two grip textured version, a diamond texture (featured) or a randomized texture—each giving the tactile sensation of different surfaces for positive control. Both are made from a Nylon 11 material (not to be confused with the Nylon 12 used in the VCG line) using a multi-jet fusion 3D printing process.

The ULCG offers a near-vertical 10.4-degree cant, and has a 1.25” width with an anti-slip lower ledge. The diamond texture (featured) to the palm swell are ideal for combat shooters and help ensure positive control regardless of situation. 

About the Process

MKM uses a 3D printing process known as Multi-Jet Fusion (MJF). This industrial-level printing process is like a CAT scan, whereby each layer is printed as one contiguous pass, and multiple products can be printed via a single sheet, into multiple complete products. Then a separate pass fuses the product only for that specific layer being printed, and a very thin layer of polymer is also added. The process repeats itself in each sequential layer and allows for far more product to be printed in the time it would take a traditional printer to produce one. Some examples of MKM’s MJF printing include:

• Printing picatinny mounted infrared lasers 3EI: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cd1mfz6uQHW/?hl=en
• Printing AR Stocks and Braces: https://www.instagram.com/p/CdtE36vODc6/?hl=en
• Printing scope caps and ARDs: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cgu9CZtub21/?hl=en
• Photo of an AR style grip we manufacture for another company: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cm5IXoErQRs/?hl=en

The MKM ULCG rifle grips are available in a matte Black (featured), Grey, Tan, or OD Green.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): At $39.95 the Ultralight Utility Compact Grip price point reflects MKMachining’s approach of blending the utility of SBR-stylized grips with that of its history in precision. Its design allots for larger hands to have a larger coverage/surface area, with a small storage space. Made from a rigid, 3D-printed Nylon 11 polymer material, the ULCG includes a more vertical angle that gives a more comfortable grip for shorter barreled rifles or AR pistols. Additionally, the material aspects that make the ULCG a premium grip in terms of cost, are the same factors that also make it one of the lightest grips on the market. In contrast, the MOE K2-XL ($23.95) from Magpul, the Hexmag Tactical Grip ($34.99), the Ergo Grip w/Suregrip ($26), the P23 Grip (19.95) from B5 Systems, and Hogue’s over-molded rubberized grip ($26.95) demonstrate that the ULCG is the more expensive—however it is (appropriately) also the only one 3D printed with stronger nylon material vice traditional mold compression using polymers.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): The comfort aspect of the ULCG came down to the grip’s overall increased width over the traditional A2 style, and its higher approach angle off the lower receiver. Over the course of 30 days, on both an SBR and an AR pistol, the diamond surface texture did have a more tactile feel in the palm, and higher beavertail/backstrap did yield a good level of comfort for end-users with larger hands (mostly men) high up on the grip. Although those with smaller hands (such as women) may find with the ULCG non-slip shelf more appropriate for their hand as a base support than their counterparts. There was no discernable edges or seams, and all surfaces were clearly smoothed down so excluding the storage door, the grip appeared as a singular piece. Elsewhere, because of the 10.4-degree angle to the lower receiver (steeper than most aftermarket grips), the wrist fell easily in-line with the trigger, and the wrist didn’t fatigue as easily when the firearm was held aloft over an extended time. The grip remained anchored correctly and the mounting hardware retained a secure hold.
• Durability – Average (3/5): The ULCG was made from a Nylon 11 material, which has slightly different properties than Nylon 12. Both are frequently used in the 3D printing of outdoor products, and is a sturdier material than other traditional materials—particularly with its notable ability to resist brittleness from UV exposure. The difference being Nylon 11 is a bio-based polymer product derived from Caster oil (making it a “green” earth-friendly plastic) that has more impact resistance and durability under extreme cold, whereas the 12 is petroleum-based and performs better at warmer temperatures. For the purposes of this review, the ULCG was dropped from shoulder height onto finished concrete ten times before being mounted to a rifle. It was also subjected to magazine strikes and contact with hard surfaces during stressor drills. The grip itself help up appropriately (or of average) as other grips with regular use, weapon manipulation, and field stressors. The surface of the ULCG did not significantly wear or deteriorate along contact areas or overall—with only minor surface marring noted due to contact to hard surfaces. The pressure to the locking tab on the bottom of the grip used to secure the storage drop-door remained consistent over time and usage, with no weakening of the tab itself nor failure in keeping the drop-door retained (though at times was difficult to manipulate and open).
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Simplistic in design; the function of the ULCG came down to improving the principle comfort (addressed above) of the end-user with relation to presentation on the firearm (as is the intent of many in the MKMaching grip line)—especially on SBRs (or shorter style rifles/pistols) over time. The ULCG also provided a good alternative for those with larger hands that may find A2-style grips too narrow or more difficult to use. By steepening the angle of the ULCG to a more vertical angle, the end-user was able to keep a more direct line in grip on the trigger—thus alleviating stress and fatigue on the wrist. It also allowed the end-user to easily keep the elbows inward on the shorter rifle platforms as it lined up the wrist (and thus arm) directly behind the platform. The thumb rest groove in the ULCG was slightly deeper than that of the Magpul MOE or the B5 System’s P23 (two of the most common SBR grips found) and this gave a slightly more purchase point for the thumb and greater support for the hand. Additionally, the non-slip ledge at the bottom of the grip provided a good base that supported the rest of the overall hand. The diamond surface texture and front/rear serrations also ensured a solid grip was maintained with, or without gloves. The storage compartment was not of enough size to store an oil bottle, but easily accommodated a spare bolt, cleaning squares, or other supplies.
• Weight – Excellent (5/5): At 1.58 ounces (or 45 grams, w/empty storage space and w/o mounting hardware) the Ultralight Utility Compact Grip was very light weight due to the use of the Nylon 11 material that comprise the grip’s overall design. In contrast, the MOE K2-XL Grip (3.3 ounces), the Hexmag Tactical Grip (2.6 ounces), the Ergo Grip w/Suregrip (4.48 ounces), and Hogue’s over-molded rubberized grip (2.8 ounces) demonstrate that the ULCG clearly capitalizes on its Nylon 12 material that keeps its weight minimal while sacrificing little in strength, and places the MKMaching grip excellently amid the market and competitors.

Overall Rating – Above Average (19/25)

Product Link: https://www.mkmachining.com/product/ultralight-compact-grip-ulcg-2/#grip-texture

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via High Ground Media, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.

The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.

Intended to extend the line of Vault protective cases, the V250 Ammo Case can protect a significant amount of ammunition for long-term storage, or to transport it to the range. It’s proprietary blend of material leads the ammo case to be up to 40% lighter than traditional ammo cans while retaining all the expected strength. The Air series of cases continues to provide Pelican’s leading level of protection at an affordable price to the consumer.

Like other Pelican Vault cases, the V250 is made from super-light proprietary HPX²™ Polymer with influence in design from Pelican’s Protector series to deliver a lightweight, watertight, crushproof, and dustproof case that offers a significant amount of protection. The polymer has an operational temperature range between -60° F and 160° F.

Exterior

With an overall exterior dimension of 16.27” (L) x 11.93” (H) x 7.90” (W), the V250’s exterior is comprised of Pelican’s Super-light proprietary HPX²™ Polymer for a lightweight shell that maintains maximum strength and impact resistance.

The V250 includes a newly redesigned Press and Pull™ latch made from an ABS polymer that secures the lid to the bottom. In addition, there is a single heavy-duty, ergonomic and foldable handle on the lid to aid in picking up the case.

Several security features built into the V250 are its two stainless-steel padlock protectors, and its single automatic purge valve (hidden under the latch) made with hi-flow Gore-Tex with a 3 micron, hydrophobic non-woven material.

Interior

With an interior space of 12.70” (L) x 10” (H) x 6.30” (W), the 1615 has an overall internal storage capacity of 0.46 ft³ that makes it ideal for storing ammunition, equipment, electronics, or any other type of sensitive gear.

Available only in Black (featured).

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): At $57.95 the V250 is intended to bring together Pelican’s new line of lightweight polymer technology, with the traditional concepts of ammo storage. Obviously its internal storage space makes it ideal for storing other items as well, but predominantly the V250 can store in excess of 1,500 rounds of boxed .223 ammunition, which is significantly more than the traditional milsurp 50 cal. ammo cans ($15-$25 depending on condition). Other market comparisons that share similar design and materials would be the 908 Waterproof Ammo Case ($54.95) by Nanuk. Or more inexpensive variants with less features for storage are Plano’s 1712 Ammo Box ($19,99), or the 50 cal. Ammo Can ($9.99) from MTM. If one is looking for the product with longer storage capability, waterproofing, and crush resistance then for its cost the V250 offers an appropriate (or average) cost given its unique materials, size, and design.
• Comfort – Average (3/5): From a comfort aspect, there was little notable aspects to the V250 beyond the appropriate number of features that aided in carrying the V250 when full. The Carrying handle provided a secure grip, and its more rounded design was far more comfortable in the hand as opposed to the more common flat milsurp ammo can handle. The overall bulk of the case however, did make it a little awkward due predominantly to the V250s width in relation to the proximity to the body when carried. The inward-facing edge of the ammo case would often bump into the leg while walking, unless held outward slightly. Pelican could alleviate this in future designs of the V250 by making altering the dimensions slightly to make it more accommodating while being transported.
• Durability – Excellent (5/5): Much like other Vault or Pelican products, the V250 maintained the manufacturer’s legacy of durability despite a number of attempts to compromise its housing. The Ammo Case was thrown into the back of a truck (with other gear) and rattled around (on/off road), as well as given its own submersion test. In water the V250 remained amazingly buoyant, even necessitating a 35lb dumbbell on top to be fully immersed and still after an hour the contents remained dry. Throughout it all the housing was never compromised, and the seal/pressurization valve maintained positive function to prevent moisture or dust penetration. The shock and impact resistance held up excellent (with only surface marring noted), with nary any effect to the ammunition contained inside. This excellent level of durability put the V250 well above some of the cheaper variants of ammo cans that would otherwise have been compromised under the stress. Research showed there are a number of videos online of users attempting to compromise the V250 via freezing, but the case rebuffed those efforts per its sub-zero operational temperature range.
• Functionality – Average (3/5): Functionally, the V250 worked appropriately (or per average) much like other ammo cans in that it offered a secure storage space for ammunition or other items. Unlike milsurp cans however, the V250 lid could not be removed but rather opened fully to allow immediate access to the contents. For some, the ability to remove the lid is often the preferred method when in use—so users should be aware of this preferential difference. The press-and-pull latch did yield a secure hold, and maintained lock despite tests to the can’s durability. The carrying handle was also collapsible which would facilitate in the stacking of multiple Ammo Cases. By using 20-round boxes of .223 ammunition, and applying a grid measurement, the V250 should be able to hold approximately 1,500 rounds with still some room left over. This storage capacity would vary with either loose ammunition, or different caliber types.
• Weight – Good (4/5): At 5.23 pounds (empty), the V250 Ammo Case offered a significant level of durability due to its lightweight HPX²™ Polymer, something that helped to keep its overall mass low, while still offering significant storage capacity and strength. In comparison, more traditional milsurp 50cal ammo cans weighs 5.30 pounds (empty) each and holds approx. 1,200 rounds of .223, while the Nanuk 908 Ammo Case is 3.6 pounds (empty) and holds approx. 600 rounds of .223. Yet clearly both did not have the storage capacity of the V250. Even the Plano 1712 Ammo Case weighs 3 pounds (empty) but only had a max capacity of approximately 1,000 rounds. Thus, for its light weight and storage capacity, the V250 Ammo Can retained a good level of weight while empty, but still able to store more ammo than other market competitors.

Overall Rating – Above Average (18/25)

Product Link: https://www.pelican.com/us/en/product/cases/ammo-case/vault/v250

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via STL Shooting Enthusiasts, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.

The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.

Introduced in 2018 by Signature 4 as a companion to other Bronc Box hard cases, the Bronc Box 38 hard case offers a smaller, more compact hard case for those with space restrictions or looking for something specific for firearm protection. Bronc Box hard cases were first intended to provide protection to compound bows for archery hunters. A design that has undergone three generational evolutions since then. Produced in Ohio, the Bronc series of hard cases provide the upmost in protection to high-dollar rifles and accessories for those looking into exotic hunts or those within the Western Hemisphere—but also offer those using it for everyday training or professional use with its security as well.

The Bronc Box 38 is intended to accommodate full-length carbine rifles, or rifles with adjustable stocks. It’s overall exterior measures 42” (L) x 17.26” (H) x 20” (W) and is made with the same material and process as the Bronc 52. The upper and lower half of the case are identical, double walled upper and lower segments made from 0.1875” thick, rotomolded linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE). This process creates a seamless shell for both segments that is water tight. In previous generations, the upper/lower segments of the Bronc Box were a single wall and utilized a foam fill inside the intervening void for protection, but that was dropped as one of several weight-saving measures and the second wall was added to maintain the protection. Around the exterior are two molded cleats for when using ratchet straps or other retention means to secure the case during transport, and reinforcement molding for added structure.

Exterior

At the front, the Bronc 38 includes three 1” military-style, spring loaded butterfly twist latches that secure the top, opening segment to the bottom.

At the front’s center, a single 5” steel plate provides for a reinforced handle that allows for the end-user to open/close the upper segment independent of the bottom (once the latches are released).

Both sides of the Bronc 38 have steel reinforced, pass-through handles that provide a point for picking up the case, as well as anchoring it to a fixed or secure point of retention. Additionally, the steel plate/handle has a single 0.4” diameter hole for securing an elongated padlock (not included).

On one side are 4” polymer wheels, while the other has two spring-loaded collapsible handles (made from steel with plastic support grips) used to support movement of the Bronc 38 during transport.

The rear exterior of the Bronc 38 features a 36” long, continuous piano hinge that allows for the two segments of the Bronc 38 to be fully opened and lay flat.

Two non-slip rubberized feet are on the bottom of the case and prevent accidental movement of the case against a variety of surfaces.

Interior

While both the top and bottom segments of the Bronc Box share some similarities, depending on configuration the two can be customized based on the end-user’s needs at that time. Regardless, the interior space of the Bronc 38 measures 38” (L) x 15.13” (H) x 15.59” (W) that provides 5.18ft³ of storage space.

Both segments include a removable, washable nylon liner, with open-cell foam padding to protect the contents.

The top and bottom segments also include two threaded anchor positions, which are dominantly beneficial for attaching/removing the two support rails that provide structure and strength to the overall case. Additionally, the lower segment includes a “kickstand” that can be used to prop open the field case and allow the end-user free use of their hands while accessing the interior.

The two support rails themselves are used on the interior to attach/move/remove the necessitating attachment points that secure the firearms to the interior of the lid. The Bronc 38 comes with three 10” (L) hook-and-loop straps, and three 16.75” (L) hook-and-loop straps, although other mounting accessories (such as gun hooks) are also available (not included in this review).

Dividing the space between the two segments is a removable foam nylon divider that is anchored into the upper segment via four slide-release buckles. One side of the divider (facing into the upper segment) is featureless while the opposite side has nylon webbing for attaching other possible pouches or accessories (sold separately).

To provide a water-tight seal between the top and bottom segments of the Bronc Box 38, a commercial-grade,  double groove rubberized O-ring is around the entire perimeter of the lid. Oppositely, on the bottom the same O-ring ensures any void, gap, or debris is sealed against the upper ring to prevent saturation or moisture penetration.

The Bronc Box 38 is available in Flat Dark Earth (featured), OD Green, or Black.

Accessories

The Bronc Box line of products also includes several accessory items that can offer both supportive roles to any field case, or offer its own unique stand-alone capabilities. Two such accessories included in this review:

Weather Resistant Cover, sold and sized for either the Bronc 38 or the Bronc 52, the cover is used to enclose the upper portion of the Bronc Box during transport and defray the environmental effects during transport. Often, the Bronc Box is placed in the back of a truck bed and left exposed while being moved to the field. The cover has two layers wherein the exterior is a polymer tarpaulin canvas (like grill covers) and dense enough to prevent penetration of moisture, dust, mud, and UV exposure by the sun. Hook-and-loop straps wrap on the sides of the cover wrap around the Bronc Box while closed, and anchor it to the case.

Product Link: https://broncbox.com/products/bronc-38-weather-resistant-cover

Three Gun Foam Insert, sold and sized for either the Bronc 38 or the Bronc 52, the gun insert is a means to organize and compartmentalize three full-sized rifles, magazines, and some associated accessories. The exterior of the open-cell polyethylene foam is coated with a water-resistant polymer coating that provides for a water resistance and added durability to the foam itself. Additionally, the bottom of the insert is reinforced with a corrugated plastic sheet.

Product Link: https://broncbox.com/products/bronc-38-three-gun-foam-insert

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): The Bronc Box 38 is at the mid-level of the Bronc field cases, with a list price of $795, and includes the internal rails/retention straps, liner, and divider. The volume of LLDPE material needed to enclose 5.18ft³ of storage space as a double-wall design was also significant. In contrast, market alternatives would be the single-walled 1740 Protector Long Case ($509.95) with 3.72ft³ of storage space or the double-walled 472-M4-M11-5 Rifle Case ($1,328.25) with 5.89ft³ of storage space by Pelican, the rotomolded 12 AR15/M16 Rifle Case ($1,338.99) with 10.61ft³ of storage space by Case Club, or the GunCruzer 3N3 GunPOD – Universal Gun Case KR ($853.78) with 5.47ft³ of storage space by Case Cruzer. These alternatives illustrate that while some inexpensive options do exist, they are often not to the same level of construction/protection, and those that are, to be above the cost of the Bronc 38. This puts the cost of the Bronc 38 at a good balance between materials, manufacturing, and the market. In terms of cost in general, for the end-user the high dollar amount attributed to any case of this size and manufacturing becomes the single largest detractor. But considering the amount of high-dollar items that can be protected inside—the value of the Bronc 38 becomes more apparent and it is recognized more to protect an investment.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): With an overall exterior length at 42”, and in a similar design as the Bronc 52, the Bronc 38 was more comfortable for a single individual to pick up and maneuver due to its smaller size and slightly less weight (while empty). The best method to comfortably move the case (by yourself) was via the spring-loaded handles on the side, and opposing rolling wheels (that provided a very smooth movement). The over-molding on the case’s exterior also made gripping and picking the (empty) case up from either end, the lid, or the front easier, but obviously the best method to transport a field case of this size was via vehicle. The smaller dimensions of the Bronc 38 found it more suitable for the back of SUVs or larger cross-over vehicles with some measure of standard cargo space. With its current height, the Bronc 38 fit comfortably under the height of the standard pickup truck bed, with adequate clearance under the height of the railing to account for most aftermarket truck bed covers. In the back of a standard pickup there was a good measure of space on the sides remaining for anchoring. As is, once fully loaded with gear or firearms, the Bronc 38 was heavier than its initial 38.5 pounds (empty) but not drastically so, and thus was still able to be picked up by an individual or more easily with two. The steel reinforced pass-through slots on the side also allowed for cargo straps to securely hold the case to the truck’s anchoring points without any concern of slippage, tearing, or warping on the part of the field case. The two non-slip feet on the bottom did a very good job of ensuring the case didn’t slip, even against the slick surface of a truck bed. Other comfortable aspects to the 38’s design included a “reach” strap to the lid’s interior that made opening and closing a fully weighted lid much easier, and far more physically manageable given when Bronc 38’s lid was fully laid flat. One recommendation from a comfort aspect to Signature 4 would be consider adding to the front-facing 5” handle from one to two (perhaps only on one side), which would improve the ability of the end-user to comfortably grip the front of the Bronc 38 when maneuvering it around or opening the lid. As is, the single handle on the front/back was somewhat limiting/awkward, especially when the case is fully loaded and the end-user is working against that dead weight.
• Durability – Good (4/5): From a durability aspect, the Bronc 38 is made almost exclusively from the same linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) as the Bronc 52, which is (to put simply) a variant of low-density polyethylene plastics commonly found throughout many products and industries. The difference being polyethylene plastics are widely known for its malleability and tensile strength, but in the linear variant the “fibers” of the plastics are predominantly in a single direction and thus have a much higher degree of flexibility during production, strength, and can contour to much tighter angles. As part of that manufacturing process, rotomolding involves a great deal of heat, and is very labor intensive. Thus, on the Bronc 38 some evidence of over-molding/excess material (evidence of being inside a cask or mold) was noted on the exterior finish, while others showed minor evidence of contact to a heating element along some edges. None of this was detrimental in any aspect of the field case, nor inhibited any function—merely were minor defects inherent in the manufacturing process. Additionally during usage, some exterior surface marring was observed due to transport to/from the range as the LLDPE material was pliable enough to offer flex against pressure, while avoided excess rigidity that might risk fracture or puncture. This was entirely within the normal range of expectations from any hard case, that it will receive some superficial scratches, gouging, or marring over time. The important thing was the durability of the double-walled case provided good protection to the interior space, and the 36” long piano hinge held up perfectly (with no warping or pulling up of pins observed) despite the added weight of items inside. Over the period of evaluation, the finish to the metal hardware did not experience any chipping at either the contact points or twist latches. Throughout evaluations the latches themselves held up appropriately and neither bent nor failed to align (in the military this style of latch is very common to equipment cases and almost always gets abused by lower enlisted, so there is often at least one broken latch on every case). The supportive hook-and-loop straps used to anchor the firearms inside the case will likely be the first sacrificial element in the Bronc 38 that will need replacement over time and continual usage. With these straps, replacing/adjusting them was as simple as removing the strap and replacing it with another. But Signature 4 is encouraged to examine the possibility of moving to the QuickFist retention block (similar to how Grey Man Tactical uses it to secure firearms to its RMP) that eliminates frictional wear, protects the rifle’s exterior, and secures the overall item. It could be easily modified to accommodate the Bronc 38s interior support rails and improve overall longevity.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally, there was a lot of good aspects packed into the Bronc 38’s design that deserved to be addressed, so the best approach was to do so with each of the three areas individually. These are:
  • The Upper Segment (i.e. the “lid”):
    • With the upper segment, there was a good amount of space available to appropriately stow two carbine length, 16” AR-15 rifles, or with shorter barreled rifles, or AR pistols (to include with optics mounted). The two support rails themselves were rigid and added good stability of the case, and the security of stored items. Some minor difficulty was noted however as the rails are anchored in fixed positions/distances, and thus (depending on rifle configuration or length) sometimes was difficult to find a suitable position for the hook-and-loop retention straps around the various accessories. A recommendation to Signature 4 would be to consider transitioning the hook-and-loop anchoring points to something that could be converted to attach a rigid MOLLE panel similar to those by Greyman Tactical, or akin to the EZ-Click system (now configured standard in most Pelican cases). Such MOLLE panels would allow full utilization of the interior space for the upper segment, and configure the stored items in any means. Currently, the end-user is limited by those two rails, in any of the three fixed positions.
    • Another area of note for the upper segment was the padded nylon divider that was attached to the interior. The divider itself had nearly complete coverage, and did a good job at partitioning both segments and protecting the contents of the upper segment (when not encumbered). This protected optics and the firearms themselves. However, the spacing of the nylon bands on the bottom was not consistent to the PALS/MOLLE webbing standard, so it was difficult to attach accessories or pouches that meet this requirement without some deflection/bunching in the material (that or just skipping the last band). Additionally, while the slide-release buckles on the top/bottom do provide some measure of support if the padded divider is loaded with MOLLE pouches/accessories—there were no buckles on the sides, which resulted in the padded divider sagging somewhat due to the added weight. Here, it is recommended to Signature 4 it examine if it wants/needs the webbing on one side—and if so then to make it PALS-compliant. Moreover, adding a slide-release buckle to the sides of the padded divider would also give it the added support if loaded down. A final recommendation for the divider would be to consider adding a continual zipper line along one edge of the padded divider as its interior space would make an excellent pocket for paper targets, documents, and other similar flat items. Alternatively, if the need for the divider were eliminated, the ensuing space along the interior removable liner would be ideal for administrative pockets for range cards, notepads, pens, etc.
  • The Lower Segment (i.e. the “base”):
    • Although similar in design as the upper segment, the lower was the primary storage area, and one that could be configured in any manner using Bronc Box’s case accessories. In the instance of the Bronc 38, the lower segment was dedicated to the Three Gun Foam Insert (included in this review). The insert itself organized and protected three additional carbine length, 16” AR-15 rifles (or shorter) as well as slots for magazines and several flat accessories while keeping 1” of spacing between them all. The ability to remove the foam insert and organize the interior space further, using Bronc Box Bale Bags (sold separately), added to the organization and compartmentalization of the field case. The lower segment of the Bronc 38 fit one Bale Bag 32 and one 16 with enough room for a helmet, boots, and other items. In total, the lower segment of the Bronc 38 fit everything needed that would normally take multiple other cases or bags to hold the same amount. Previous generational versions within the Bronc Box had the lower segment’s interior space divided (via grooves) for removable dividers, but that design was eliminated in lieu of the current uniform space and removable liner.
  • Other Notables:
    • Another area of positive note during the review was the interlock/seal between the O-rings that created a solid, water and dust-proof seal. During recovery of multiple trips to the range (whereby the Bronc 38 was continually coated in dust, debris, and rained on) it was simply hosed off and wiped down. Water was observed collecting along the seals and piano hinge, and the case groove it sits in, but never noted penetrating the interior or saturating any area inside. Perhaps the only limiting factor in this component of the case was that when the upper segment was opened, the water along said upper groove would immediately condense and drip into/around the interior. This was minimal and was easily mitigated by opening the lid slowly or tiling the case slightly prior to opening and allow any excess water between the two adjoined segments to run off. The consumer should note however, the water-tight capabilities of the Bronc 38 to seal works both ways. There was no air pressurization valve (but one can be added at the time of purchase) or other means to allow for the passage of moisture/humidity. Thus if you placed a wet item inside the field case (such as wet boots or clothing, wet gear, or gun) and closed the case for transport, that moisture subsequently has no means of escape. The same could be said for those living in regions with high humidity levels, such as Florida or Louisiana whereby you could inadvertently trap moisture-rich air, from an early morning hunt or range prep, inside the case. The solution there would be to simply place a quality desiccant pack inside the case and alleviate any concern. As noted with the upper segment, one suggestion for Signature 4 might be to consider adding several small pockets or sleeves to the removable liner for such an item.
    • Lastly, the Weather Resistant Cover. While not the direct focus of this review, the cover itself was intended to provide near complete coverage of the Bronc Box and protect it from environmental effects it may encounter while in transport. The biggest advantage to the cover was its dense, two-layer fabric caused water to immediately bead off, and drastically reduced the amount of external dust left on the case after a trip in the back of a pickup truck. The hook-and-loop straps were problematic in securing as it necessitated either lifting a fully loaded case on one end up to wrap around, or tip it up (again fully loaded) completely on its side.  Signature 4 may want to examine if a horizontal wrap might be more functional. Otherwise the securing straps on opposite sides allowed for a snug fit, and at no point did the cover come loose or risk flying off unintentionally despite high-speed or highway winds. The threading and hook-and-loop fabric retained its hold and at no point was any fraying observed. It should be noted the cover was only intended for use during transport, as its near complete coverage and thus did not allow for opening/accessing the Bronc 38’s interior with the cover on.
• Weight – Good (4/5): The weight of a Bronc 38 came in at 38.50 pounds (empty) for 5.18ft³ of storage, and this proved to be more manageable in size and dimension (for the individual) to maneuver in limited spaces (stairwells, hallways, etc.) than the previous Bronc 52. As items were added, the weight of the field case obviously increased from there. While the wheels and side carrying handles did assist in moving—lifting the case into a vehicle was manageable with the over-molding on the sides that provided good additional contact points to grip. Just as with the Bronc 52, it is recommended that if maneuvering the Bronc 38 by yourself, to either (1) pre-stage the field case prior to adding items, or if loaded prior to lifting, to (2) simply get someone to assist as a two-man lift and place it where it needs to go. In contrast, the 1740 Protector Long Case (22 pounds) with 3.72ft³ of storage space or the double-walled 472-M4-M11-5 Rifle Case (47 pounds) with 5.89ft³ of storage space by Pelican, the rotomolded 12 AR15/M16 Rifle Case (65 pounds) with 10.61ft³ of storage space by Case Club, or the GunCruzer 3N3 GunPOD – Universal Gun Case KR (29 pounds) with 5.47ft³ of storage space by Case Cruzer establish that the Bronc 38 has a good balance of weight amid the market considering what is gained in its double-walled design, storage space volume, hardware, and accessories.

Overall Rating – Good (20/25)

Product Link: https://broncbox.com/products/the-bronc-38

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via High Ground Media, LLC, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.

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