Flying with guns

[jbaugher]

I just got invited to go turkey hunting down in Tennessee this spring. I was thinking about flying down there. I was wondering if anyone has traveled with weapons on an airplane since Sept 11th? The NWA websight made it sound like all you have to do is have the weapon in a hard case and declare it. Any info would be appreciated.

[Craig M]

I was told to call whatever airline carrier to get the procedures you need to follow. Also, I have heard of horror stories of hunters traveling with obvious looking gun cases getting abused by the luggage handlers (I guess alot of anit's work at the airports). Don't really know it that's true or not. I have had more than one person tell me to purchase a hard golf bag case to transport your weapons in while doing air travel. Some insurance on your gun would not be a bad idea.

[Cable]

I don't think the handlers could do that much to the 870 that I haven't done to it myself (not on purpose) and like a Timex it can take a licking. But if I saw them doing that to my firearm they would take the licking.

[The Nailer]

jbaugher,

I just returned from a goose hunt in Nebraska last week. I allowed even more time than usual for an inspection. Boy was I surprised. They didn't even look in the case to see if it was unloaded. I just had to fill out a tag declaring that it was and put it in the case w/ the gun.

Re: the case, I have an inexpensive hard case that I've had for years. I don't know the name but they still sell them it's tan in color. I always worry when traveling w/ it, but so far no problems. I shoot a Benelli and it has traveled well in this case. I padlock each end then wrap the the ends w/ duct tape for extra drop protection. I think, however, if I were traveling w/ a scoped rifle I would invest in another case, like an SKB.

As far as ammo goes I believe it has to be in it's own container separate from the gun. I usually don't take any w/ me and I either borrow some from the guys I'm shooting with or buy some once I get to where I'm going. If you have friends there once you pattern your gun and see what shoots best have them buy some for you and you can keep it there.

By the way this was on NorthWest and I departed from Flint which is a small airport. Although the procedure was the same in Omaha.

Good luck on your hunt and don't over worry about your gun.

[Aspen Hill Adventures]

The airlines really have not changed much since 9-11 with the transport of hunter's firearms. Everything was already pretty strict to begin with. While they can, there is no requirement to inspect your firearms. I do travel a lot with my hunting gear and have never had trouble, the best airport I went from was Flint, the people there are fantastic. Everyone here has made excellent suggestions here too. Besides making sure you have a top quality lockable case, I recommend you carry a list of your serial numbers for all firearms. All ammunition should be packed and stored in your luggage. I also recommend getting a passport, even if your travel is limited to US and Canadian destinations, trust me, you'll get "express" service.

FYI - International travel has other requirements.

[The Nailer]

Ann,
That's a good tip re: serial #'s. Even though I have them at home it probably would be a good thing to have them w/ you.
Thanks

[Swamp Monster]

All good info. As far as ammo is concerned, in case you handload, make sure, you use a factory ammo box to transport the ammo. Thats in the regulations on some airlines. Handloads in a plastic or non factory box may look strange to those that are checking bags or those that have never seen ammuntion before. Factory boxes will eliminate these concerns. (hopefully). Another good way to carry a takedown shotgun is to buy a soft sided takedown case that you can stick inside a large duffel bag. You can stuff clothes etc around this case in your bag and the baggage handlers will never now they are handling a gun. Plus you may save luggage space or xtr bagage charges. You still must declare the gun with the airlines though. I too have heard the stories about mistreatment of obvious gun cases so if you plan to travel often, a top quality hard case is well worth the premium price that they command. In the long hall, its cheap insurance.
Good luck and have a safe trip!

[Dogshooter]

I have flown quite a bit since 911 and the only difference I have encountered is I have been asked to open the case and show the gun was not loaded more often now than before. I haven't had any problems at all with theft or damage, knock on wood. One thing I do, sometimes, when flying with bolt actioned rifles, I sometimes place the bolt in a separate checked bag. Reduces the value of the gun considerably.

[RealDcoy]

I am one of those people who suggests the "golf case" for firearms.

When I flew out to WY last year, I bought an SKB hard golf bag case. I bought it at the local Golf USA store. They actually rent teh cases for a minimal fee, Then they sold them out as used. I think I paid $45.00 for mine, and it looked new other than the fact that I found some grass inside of it. I then bought some DENSE Foam, and drilled some small holes in the top section and put some mini-stretch cords in it. I could stack two guns in half, and the other half with the cords held gear.

I was able to take my .270, my 16 Ga, 2 fishing rods, waders, 2 light jackets, and a bunch of other misc stuff. I came in just under the weight limit. I just left the firearms in their soft cases as well. That way, when I got there, I could carry them in a soft case.

The best part was that at each airport, no one looked at me funny, and actually I got the case brought right out to me. Nobody thought about firearms being in there.

[jbaugher]

I just wanted to say THANKS for all the great info. My friend that I am going to visit and hunt with, wanted me to mail it down to him. I was not really so keen on the idea. I plan to take out an insurance policy and keep the serial numbers in my wallet. I am alo going to look into getting a good case. I really do like the idea of the golf/gun case depending cost. I figure that I will run over to Cabelas and see what they have there. I am flying out of Detroit and I will only be carring my BPS 10g. I really do not think that they can do anything to it but they could surprise me. Thanks again!

Jbaugher

[Aspen Hill Adventures]

Look for the TUFF PAK brand case. It doesn't look like a gun case and I know they hold at least two guns plus room for other equipment.

[Swamp Monster]

I have a correction to make concerning my previous post. You have to have a hard case so buy a hard takedown case that you can fit in a large duffel, you can stuff a soft case in there if you want for easier transport once you arrive.

[Dogshooter]

Just a note of warning on the golf bag / duffel bag idea. If you do not declare the firearm and they find out (they are x-raying ALL baggage now) you are guilty of a felony. Be careful guys. I would rather have them steal one than go thru THAT hassle. Just make sure your insurance will cover it.