Buying a gun slip that is the wrong length is one of the most common mistakes shooters make. Too short and the zip strains or the gun won't go in; too long and the gun slides around and knocks against the end every time you carry it. The good news: getting the size right takes a tape measure and two minutes.
Quick answer: gun slips are usually sized by barrel length (for example 28", 30" or 32"). Check your barrel length, then measure the overall length of the gun from muzzle to the end of the stock and choose a slip that is about 1–2 inches longer than that.
Why the Right Size Matters
- Protection: a snug fit stops the gun moving inside the slip, which prevents knocks to the muzzle, rib and stock.
- Easier handling: the gun slides in and out smoothly without forcing the zip or flap.
- Longer slip life: an oversized gun puts strain on stitching and closures; an undersized one wears the lining.
What You Need
- A flexible tape measure (a cloth or sewing tape is ideal)
- A flat surface such as a table or floor
- Your unloaded shotgun or rifle
Safety first: always check that the gun is unloaded and the action is open before you measure.
How to Measure a Shotgun for a Gun Slip
- Check the barrel length. It is often stamped on the barrel flats or listed in the manufacturer's specification. Common lengths are 28", 30" and 32".
- Close the gun and lay it flat on a table with the stock fully extended (for adjustable stocks, use the length you shoot with).
- Measure the overall length in a straight line from the muzzle to the end of the butt pad.
- Measure the widest point, usually at the action or the grip, if you want to check that a slim slip will fit.
- Add 1–2 inches to the overall length. This is the internal length to look for in a slip.
How to Measure a Rifle for a Rifle Slip
Rifles need a little more thought because of scopes, moderators and bipods.
- Measure the overall length from the muzzle (or the end of the moderator, if one is fitted) to the end of the butt.
- Measure the height from the bottom of the stock to the top of the scope at its tallest point, usually the turrets.
- Note any accessories that stay on the rifle, such as a bipod, sling studs or a raised cheekpiece.
- Add 1–2 inches to the length and choose a slip shaped for scoped rifles if your rifle has an optic.
Approximate Shotgun Slip Size Chart
Use this as a starting point only. Stock length, action size and recoil pads vary between makes, so always measure your own gun.
| Barrel length | Typical overall gun length (approx.) | Slip size to look for |
|---|---|---|
| 26" | 43"–44" | 26" slip, about 45" internal |
| 28" | 45"–46" | 28" slip, about 47" internal |
| 30" | 47"–48" | 30" slip, about 49" internal |
| 32" | 49"–50" | 32" slip, about 51" internal |
If your gun falls between two sizes, choose the larger one.
Single, Double and Takedown Guns
- Single slips are sized as above.
- Double slips hold two guns side by side. Measure the longer of the two guns and make sure both have similar stock widths. See our handmade double leather shotgun case for an example.
- Broken-down guns (barrels and stock separated) need a fitted or takedown case rather than a standard slip; measure the barrels and the stock-and-action separately.
Common Sizing Mistakes to Avoid
- Measuring the barrel only and assuming the slip label is the gun's overall length. The size on most slips refers to barrel length.
- Forgetting the recoil pad or stock extension, which can add an inch or more.
- Ignoring the scope height on a rifle, which stops the zip closing.
- Buying "one size fits all" slips that are much longer than the gun, leaving it loose inside.
Choosing the Right Material
Once you know your size, think about how you shoot:
- Full-grain leather is the most protective and develops a rich patina over time; ideal for formal days and long-term use. Browse our leather shotgun cases.
- Waxed canvas with leather trim is lighter and handles wet weather well; a good choice for rough shooting and wildfowling.
- Cordura with leather trim is the lightest and most abrasion-resistant option.
For a deeper comparison, read Leather Shotgun Case vs Synthetic Case: Which Is Better? and Why Leather Is Used in Rifle and Shotgun Cases.
Caring for Your Gun Slip
- Always wipe and dry the gun before putting it in the slip, and never store a wet gun in it.
- Use the slip for transport, not long-term storage; keep guns in a secure cabinet at home.
- Condition leather slips once or twice a year to keep them supple.
- Check your local laws on transporting and storing firearms; some journeys require a lockable hard case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size gun slip do I need for a 30-inch shotgun?
Look for a slip labelled for 30" barrels. Most 30" guns measure around 47"–48" overall, so the slip should have roughly 49" of internal length. Measure your own gun to confirm.
Does gun slip size refer to the barrel or the whole gun?
Usually the barrel. A "30-inch slip" is designed for a gun with 30" barrels, not a gun that is 30" long overall.
Can I use a shotgun slip for a rifle?
Sometimes, but scoped rifles are taller and often need a slip with extra room for the optic. A dedicated leather rifle case is the safer choice.
Should a gun slip be tight or loose?
Snug but not tight. The gun should slide in without forcing and not move more than an inch or so once closed.
Find Your Perfect Fit
With your measurements in hand, you can choose a slip with confidence. Browse our full range of rifle and shotgun cases, and pair it with a leather cartridge bag for a complete set. Not sure which size is right? Send us your measurements and we'll help you choose.
