AllOutdoor Review – Plano Diverge Shotgun Case

For the past few months, I have been putting the Plano Diverge 54″ Shotgun Case to work for my shotguns, both in storage and on the go. When you are shuttling between home, the range and different hunting grounds, you want something that is as convenient as it is protective and portable. The Diverge line from Plano is a hybrid of sorts, straddling the line between an old-fashioned soft case and a full hard one.

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The Diverge Shotgun Case was provided by Plano for this overview and while I am allowed to keep them indefinitely, this will not impact my opnions on any of Plano’s current or future product offerings. 

Product Specifications: Plano Diverge Shotgun Case

• Interior Dimensions: 54″ L × 8″ W × 3″ H
• Exterior Dimensions: 55.25″ L × 9.75″ W × 4.5″ H
• Weight: 5.6 lbs (empty)
• Construction: Ultra-light TOUGHSHELL EVA molded exterior shell
• Interior: High-density compression-fit foam
• Closure: Heavy-duty zipper
• Carry Options: Padded shoulder strap and grab handles
• Additional Features: Daisy Chain / MOLLE-style webbing for accessories
• Best For: Vehicle transport, range use, and field carry (not airline approved)
• MSRP: Approximately $150–$170

The 54″ model is made for shotguns and other longer firearms. On the outside, it runs about 55.25 by 9.75 by 4.5 inches, while the interior measures 54 x 8 x 3 inches, which is ample for most standard guns and a few accessories. Weighing in at 5.6 pounds without anything in it, it is not heavy for its size and much lighter than a dedicated hard case like a Pelican. You will find an ultra-light TOUGHSHELL EVA molded exterior that is flexible yet stands up to impact, and inside there is high-density compression-fit foam to keep the firearm put. Instead of latches, they have gone with a heavy-duty zipper. There is a padded shoulder strap, grab handles and some Daisy Chain/MOLLE webbing for gear, all available in Black, Desert Tan or camo. You can expect to pay in the $150 to $170 neighborhood for it. It is fine for the vehicle but don’t plan on taking it on an airline as the zippers aren’t built for that.

Design and Construction

Plano has taken a hybrid approach with the Diverge. The outer shell is a molded EVA foam that gives you the structure and cushioning of a hard plastic case without the bulk. That TOUGHSHELL exterior will resist a dent or scrape but is supple enough to absorb a hit. The foam within is dense and cut to hold the shotgun fast once you zip it up. The zipper goes around three sides so the case opens flat for easy access. You can also make use of the attachment points on the outside for extra straps.

Pros
A case like this has its merits. For one, the weight is a big plus, with it being just over five and a half pounds, it is much easier to lug around than comparable hard cases when you are walking to a blind or between cars. The foam does a good job of damping vibration and bumps in normal transit. And the zipper means you don’t have to faff about with latches for a quick check at the range. The portability is enhanced by the handles and shoulder strap, and the MOLLE webbing is handy for tacking on a pouch or two. In short, it is a good balance for your everyday shooting and hunting.

Cons
Then again, there are drawbacks. Without the rigid shell and latches of a true hard case, you don’t get the same crush resistance or security. As mentioned, it is not for checked airline luggage. The EVA material is light but will show its age if you rub it against rough surfaces too often. The interior foam isn’t as malleable as the pluck-foam you might find in a more expensive hard case. At this price some may be tempted to go with a cheaper soft case or something with more heft.

Practical Use: Plano Diverge Shotgun Case

I’ve mostly used the Diverge 54″ to get my shotguns from the house to the range or wherever I am hunting. It has no trouble fitting even the longer-barreled shotguns I own. The compression foam sees the gun through a bumpy drive and the whole thing is easy to throw in the truck bed or carry across a field. The exterior has stood up to the odd bit of rain and dust without issue, and the shoulder strap comes in handy when your hands are otherwise occupied. It doesn’t hog much room for storage at home either and stacks fine with other Plano stuff. That said, I would not recommend it for long-term storage in harsh conditions. Keep an eye on the zipper and foam now and then.

Final Thoughts: Plano Diverge Shotgun Case

In the end, the Plano Diverge 54” is a functional option that in my opinion, bridges the gap between a hard and soft case buitifully for the price. Its 54-inch interior, 5.6-pound weight and mix of TOUGHSHELL EVA and compression foam make it a solid performer for vehicle transport and the range where you value portability. It won’t give you the absolute maximum protection of a hard-sided model, but it is a sensible middle ground in the world of gun cases.

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