As gun case manufacturers, at UWK we understand that a quality gun case is only as good as the case foam that sits within it. A superior exterior is all for nothing if your guns are being damaged during transportation or storage.
There are several different types of gun case foam, but only a few are suited to the needs of gun owners. By the end of this article, you will know what to look for.
There are three primary benefits of gun case foam, which differentiate gun cases as secure storage versus other types of bags and cases, like a backpack.
Unless you're leaving your gun case in one spot, chances are it will be dropped or take a knock at some point - especially if you're planning to fly with your guns. The right foam inserts will cushion the blow and prevent the energy from the shock from reaching your gun and other contents.
Your gun and shooting range equipment are not like groceries - when they move or bounce around, damage is likely to occur. Whether that damage be minor scuffing and scratching, or more serious. A foam insert, designed specifically for your gun type and having slots for extra clips, eye protection, ear protection, etc., will keep your items in place and in the same state as when you packed them in.
By using the right foam type you will have inserts that do not absorb moisture, which will help you to prevent rust on your guns.
Our D-Tap gun case range comes with 3 foam layers. We use a layer of convoluted foam (also known as "egg crate foam") on the lid and bottom of the case. This foam is shock-absorbing and helps keep items that protrude out in place. A flat foam layer would only work well if your guns and other items lay flush.
On top of the base convulate sits our center polyethylene foam. This foam is a rigid cross-link designed to keep your items in place - it doesn't have much give, which is ideal for heavier items. The foam has closed/small cells, which means that it doesn't stain and can't absorb moisture, a big benefit with respect to rust - particularly in the case of long term storage.
We go even further to protect your guns from rust by including two 20g desiccant cartridges in every case and we use a foam glue that will not activate the rusting process - something that other case manufacturers often overlook.
Our foam inserts are customized depending on the case model. For example, our D-Tap R2 case has slots for two handguns (quickdraw style), 6 magazines, extra ammo and ear and ear protection. Whereas our D-Tap 8 is a shooting range instructor's dream with 8 slots for handguns and 16 slots for ammo clips.
Looking for replacement foam? We provide a wide range of gun case foam solutions - click here to see replacement foam sets. From cross-link polyethylene to pre-diced pick and pluck foam. Any color you need and any foam type. We can even cut to your specified dimensions.
Visit our custom foam page for more details.
The type of foam needed depends on your needs.
Will you be traveling? Will your guns be stored in the case for long periods? How big and heavy are your guns?
The most common foam types are:
Polyethylene is a closed cell foam, which means moisture will not be absorbed. You can even pour liquid directly onto it and it can just be wiped off. Polyethylene is also very firm and supportive. For gun owners looking to show off their gun and case, cross-linked polyethylene has a high-end, visually appealing look. Be aware - it is pricier than many alternatives.
Polyurethane foam has more give than polyethylene, which can cause it to sink over time - losing its original shape. It is an open cell and will thus absorb liquids like oil and cleaning solvent, which could cause rust and will cause the foam to break down over time. Polyurethane foam is a cheaper alternative to PE.
EVA is another closed cell foam. It is extremely rigid, has a very smooth finish and is quite costly. It is the least common of the three options for gun case foam.
If you are a serious gun owner, we recommend not using the following types of foam for your gun case unless you have no other option.
High Resilience Foam
Rebond Foam
Memory Foam
Latex Rubber Foam
Dry Fast Foam
Whether you're looking for custom foam inserts or a gun case equipped with specialist foam padding - ensure that your guns are being held with foam that will keep them safe during storage and transportation.
If you have any questions about gun cases or foam inserts - contact us today, we're happy to help.
If you have any questions on EUDE FOAM, Protective Package Solutions. We will give the professional answers to your questions.