opinion on hunting air travel?

[lhsako]

Flying to Colorado for elk next month. I have several flight changes. I have the option of shipping my gear in advance to my buddy's in NM. He'll get me at the airport after a week of scouting. I've flown w/ rifles numerous times.alaska,canada,etc. So that's not my concern. All the flight changes just seem to up the odds for lost weapon/gear
Would you ship rifle/ gear to him or take it as baggage on the flight ? thanks!

 

[Guy Miner]

With "several" flight changes - I'd seriously consider shipping my rifle.

 

[Rol_P]

When I used to fly to North Dakota for bird hunting I checked my shotgun but purchased extra insurance so that it was supposed to be waiting for me at the customer service counter. That was many years ago and I do not know what extra coverage is available.

Personally I would ship important gear, insured to your friend in a good sturdy case.

Good luck with your hunt.

 

[Elkman]

Ship the most important stuff. When I went to Alaska we had one plane change, with the same airline. They misplaced a 5 foot long stainless steel gun case for two days. Recently I flew to Huston, again with one plane change, and the weapon in a small Pelican Case arrived with me.
I would probably ship it or drive.

 

[Divernhunter]

I vote ship the stuff

 

[Anonymous]

I've flown with weapons a number of times. Only had one issue that the airline quickly rectified.

I'd think shipping would carry more risks.

 

[diverdown]

I flew with Southwest from Orlando to Albuquerque and spoke with them before hand on their handling procedures. Everything worked out great. My concern was from the check-in point in the lobby to the airline. Security advised me that eyes were on the case till it reached the plane. Very pleased with procedures overall.

 

[rodell]

Although stuff happens, I've taken guns with me all over the place. As long as the carriers have baggage agreements, I'd take the gun with me. Everything else I would ship!