Review: UKoala Bag

by
posted on October 10, 2017
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
ukoala1-a.jpg

If you like to go hiking, backpacking or ride a motorcycle and want to try a new way to carry concealed, take a look at the UKoala Bag. This is relatively small tote featuring multiple compartments that allow someone to carry a gun, magazines and a few basics like your ID and money.

The UKoala Bag comes in three different sizes, each offering a little more length. The one I tested was a Standard, which offers a main pocket size of 6-by-8 inches—big enough to handle a full-size handgun. The other sizes are Compact and Expanded.

The set-up allows for you to wear it one of two ways, either draped over your shoulder like a woman carries a handbag or using two straps to anchor it around your waist and leg. Custom Kydex holsters and hook-and-loop attachment offer excellent retention of your handgun.

It’s super convenient for a day hike, allowing you to protect yourself and carry a few necessities without having to use a backpack on top of your water pack. Though it provides easier access to your handgun than a backpack does, the one concern is that it has zippered pockets for the gun. That’s not an insurmountable problem. If you’re aware of your surroundings and hear rustling or growling, you’d be able to start unzipping early enough in most cases. Still, it’s something you need to consider.

Otherwise, the model tested is a sturdy canvas tote that looks to provide a long usable life. Leather, synthetic suede and nylon are available, too. Pricing starts at $119, depending on size and material chosen.

Latest

1992 NRA Championship History 2
1992 NRA Championship History 2

A Tornado, a Target Mix-Up and Triumphant Returns: 1992 National Matches

The 1992 National Matches at Camp Perry featured tornado evacuations, a historic target mix-up and dominant performances by Lozoya, Wigger and Bernosky.

Benelli’s ‘Art of Performance’ Series Goes Inside the Making of a Lupo Barrel

First video in Benelli USA’s new “Art of Performance” series showcases the three-step barrel engineering process in its Lupo bolt-action rifle.

Parcell, Powell Lead Team Remington’s Podium Run at 2026 Gator Cup

Brandon Powell finishes HOA runner-up and Turner Parcell takes third in the Main Event at the 2026 Gator Cup.

2026 NRA National Smallbore Rifle Championship Preview

The NRA National Smallbore Rifle Championship returns to Ohio’s Cardinal Shooting Center in 2026 with expanded junior programs, major sponsor support and three national titles at stake.

Cartridge Case Materials Explained: Brass, Steel, Aluminum and Nickel-Plated Brass

A breakdown of four common cartridge case materials—brass, steel, aluminum and nickel-plated brass—covering cost, performance, reloadability and identification.

New: Federal Subsonic Rifle Target Loads

Federal Ammunition’s new Subsonic rifle target loads eliminate the supersonic crack that suppressors cannot silence, shipping now with three cartridges at 1,000 fps from $36.99 to $54.99.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Sports USA delivered to your inbox.