Diamondback

Gents, I find myself needing a new range bag, and have some particular complications so I'm hoping another laptop-packing shooter out there can give me some advice.

The gear load: on top of my 1911, some mags and 1-2 boxes of ammo, it also has to safely accommodate a Sager NP9380, one of the largest laptops out there (17.3" screen; 16.5"x11.5"x2"), along with its power brick (a real brick, in both size and weight, it's about the same as a 1911). Room for 1-2 portable hard-drives would be nice but not needed.

Cosmetically I'd like something similar to a messenger bag or just a suitable-size laptop bag, not something as big as the catalog-case I use for Full Bag Drag situations. Reason I prefer a messenger bag over a duffel is 1. I find messenger bags more accessible when I need to break out the laptop in the car and 2. I do a lot of work out of public libraries, and while the folks at my usual branch are pretty enlightened about CCW I don't want to be conspicuous about it when I'm turning in part of a day then heading out to the firing-line.

Thanks in advance!

spwenger

...but, after many years of using a Waller & Son range bag, I decided that I prefer the lower profile of something manufactured as a toolbox. I've purchased a couple of inexpensive polymer ones at Wally World, one of which came with a retractable handle, wheels and a top compartment that detaches for access to the lower compartment as well as for separate carry. The other one is basically just a fairly large toolbox with a lift-out tray.

I have no idea if this is in line with what you're seeking but I figured that it couldn't hurt to toss the concept out for your evaluation.

WaltGraham

Yep, and that has the advantage of not yelling "steal me" as loudly if it happens to be seen in a vehicle...

M118LR

Threads old so you've probably already solved the situation. I've been using a McGuire-Nicholas Big Foot Tool Bag for years. Rubberized bottom comes in handy.
Link: McGuire-Nicholas 22516 15" Bigfoot Tool Bag - Newegg.com

Diamondback

M118LR, that bag looks ok at first glance, only reservation being trying to cram a 16"+ laptop into a 15" bag.

Might have potential, though.

M118LR

I can't begin to tell you how much Range and Rifle/Pistol Maintenance Gear I've got stuffed into that bag. But I do carry the laptop in a 10$ old army issue messenger bag that will hold a 1911 and M9 along with two boxes of ammo and shooting glasses. But I believe it's discontinued, at least I haven't been able to find a new one since the long ago date of purchase. Sorry.
They do make larger versions, I just haven't found a need for them Yet!

phantom4570

I wouldn't try to put a laptop in a range bag with guns and ammo. It gets too heavy to carry. Case Logic makes backpacks for seventeen inch laptops and it works nicely.

Make sure the range bag has handle straps that go all the way around the bag. Cheap bags anchor the handles at a seam which will eventually fail.

Check out Bags & Luggage: Elite Concealed Carry Holsters, Concealment Holsters and Packs, CCW Gun Holsters I have a couple of their bags that work very well for me.