Allen 92452 Flotation Slip Case Review

The One Thing I Didn’t Expect from the Allen 92452 Flotation Slip Case 52″ Avayde

The Allen 92452 Flotation Slip Case 52″ Avayde is, at first glance, a straightforward gun case designed to protect your firearm during transport and storage. Made by Allen, a name I’ve come to trust over the years for their practical and affordable gear, this particular model boasts a feature that many cases lack: flotation. In my line of work and recreation, I am always around water, so a floating gun case can be a game changer.

I’ve always prioritized protecting my firearms from the elements. I was specifically looking for a case that could handle the rigors of boat trips and potentially accidental submersions. I needed something more than just weather resistance, hence the move to flotation.

Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the Allen 92452 Flotation Slip Case 52″ Avayde felt surprisingly lightweight, despite its claimed buoyancy. The Avayde color scheme is subtle and functional, avoiding the overly tactical look that some cases sport. The build quality seemed adequate, although I was eager to test the true extent of its water resistance and floating capabilities.

Compared to my existing cases, like a basic Plano hard case and a padded nylon case from another brand, the Allen case stood out due to its flotation feature. I considered a higher-end, waterproof hard case from Pelican, but the price difference was substantial, and I wanted to see if the Allen case could offer a reasonable balance of protection and affordability. My initial reaction was cautious optimism. I was excited about the potential, but also aware that a budget-friendly flotation case might have compromises in other areas.

Real-World Testing: Putting Allen 92452 Flotation Slip Case 52″ Avayde to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test involved a fishing trip on a local lake, where I brought my favorite 12-gauge shotgun. I wanted to see how the Allen 92452 Flotation Slip Case 52″ Avayde held up during the boat ride and any potential splashes. The case performed adequately in light rain, keeping the shotgun dry.

The true test came when I deliberately dropped the case (with an unloaded shotgun inside, of course) into the water near the boat. The case floated as advertised, albeit a little lower than I anticipated. Retrieving it was easy, and upon opening, the shotgun was indeed dry.

Ease of use was excellent; the case is simple to open and close, with a robust zipper. No real learning curve was involved; it functions like any other slip case, but with added buoyancy. The main surprise was the slightly lower-than-expected flotation height.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including multiple fishing trips and a duck hunting excursion, the Allen 92452 Flotation Slip Case 52″ Avayde has held up reasonably well. There are no major signs of wear and tear, although the Avayde fabric shows some minor staining from mud and water.

The zipper still functions smoothly, and the internal padding remains intact. Cleaning is relatively easy; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth does the trick. Compared to my previous experiences with similar cases, the Allen case has outperformed my expectations in terms of water resistance and flotation, especially considering its price point.

However, it’s important to note that this isn’t a substitute for a truly waterproof hard case in extreme conditions. It’s a good compromise for casual use where accidental submersion is a risk.

Breaking Down the Features of Allen 92452 Flotation Slip Case 52″ Avayde

Specifications

• The Allen 92452 Flotation Slip Case 52″ Avayde is designed to accommodate firearms up to 52 inches in length. This is critical for ensuring your firearm fits properly and is adequately protected.
• It is manufactured by Allen, a well-known brand in the outdoor and tactical gear industry. This provides a degree of assurance regarding quality and reliability.
• The case features a full-length zipper for easy access. This design ensures quick and convenient access to your firearm.
• The exterior is made of durable, water-resistant Avayde fabric. This material is designed to withstand the elements and protect your firearm from moisture.
• The interior is padded to provide cushioning and prevent scratches. Padding is essential for protecting the finish and components of your firearm.
• The primary standout feature is its integrated flotation, which keeps the case and its contents afloat if dropped in water. This is a crucial feature for anyone using it around water.

Performance & Functionality

The Allen 92452 Flotation Slip Case 52″ Avayde performs its job reasonably well, offering decent protection and reliable flotation. The case is easy to use and provides adequate cushioning. Its strengths lie in its simplicity, affordability, and flotation capabilities.

The main weakness is that it is not fully waterproof; prolonged submersion could lead to water ingress. I would say that it generally meets my expectations, providing a good balance of features and price.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is acceptable for its price point. The Avayde fabric feels durable, and the zipper operates smoothly. The case is lightweight and easy to carry, but the padding could be slightly thicker for added protection.

The design is user-friendly, with no unnecessary frills. There is no significant learning curve; anyone familiar with slip cases will find it intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Allen 92452 Flotation Slip Case 52″ Avayde should last for several years of moderate use. The fabric is reasonably resistant to wear and tear, and the zipper appears to be durable.

Maintenance is straightforward; simply wipe down the case with a damp cloth as needed. The Avayde material resists staining to some extent, making it easy to keep clean.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Allen 92452 Flotation Slip Case 52″ Avayde does not come with any additional accessories. There are no customization options available. However, its primary function is to protect and float your firearm, which it achieves adequately in its stock form.

Pros and Cons of Allen 92452 Flotation Slip Case 52″ Avayde

Who Should Buy Allen 92452 Flotation Slip Case 52″ Avayde?

The Allen 92452 Flotation Slip Case 52″ Avayde is perfect for hunters, anglers, and recreational shooters who frequently use firearms around water. It is also suitable for anyone looking for an affordable and lightweight case with added flotation capabilities.

This product is NOT ideal for those who require maximum waterproof protection in extreme conditions. If you need a case that can withstand prolonged submersion or heavy impacts, a hard case is a better choice. A must-have modification would be to add some closed cell foam internally for additional flotation.

Conclusion on Allen 92452 Flotation Slip Case 52″ Avayde

The Allen 92452 Flotation Slip Case 52″ Avayde is a solid choice for anyone seeking a basic, affordable gun case with flotation capabilities. While it’s not a substitute for a high-end waterproof hard case, it offers a reasonable level of protection and peace of mind for casual use around water.

The price is definitely justified for what you get. Yes, I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly flotation case. For the price, it’s hard to beat. If you’re in the market for a simple, reliable, and buoyant gun case, give the Allen 92452 Flotation Slip Case 52″ Avayde a shot. You might be surprised at how well it performs!