Gun Case suggestions

[kytrkyhntr]

I have been eye balling getting a case for my travels. I've yet to fly with a gun but I'd like the piece of mind when I do. I wouldn't mind getting a case that can fit 2 full size shotguns but I'm not sure what size that would be. Do any of you all have a suggestion or good or bad Experiences with hard cases. I've got a couple of cabelas gift cards so I've been checking the ones they have since most of the "good" cases are 200 plus bucks. I don't have to have custom foam fitting inserts but that wouldn't hurt. Anything helps
-kevin

[Prohunter3509]

Dave Owen's has a very informative you tube piece about flying and traveling with gun you should watch.
He has a double bow case breaks his
Shotgun down puts clothes all kinds of stuff in it
Watch that video, 15 mins. Worth your time

[Ridge]

I use a SKB double bow/rifle case and would highly recommend it. A few things I would recommend...

I would suggest against the custom foam inserts because you are greatly cutting yourself short in space that you could be using. First thing I do is remove the middle layer of foam that comes with the double case. I pack my shotgun in a soft case and then put the soft case inside the hard case. This allows you to ditch the big and bulky hard case once you get to your destination. You can either leave it in your rental or in the place you're staying. I find it much easier dealing with the soft case versus getting in and out of the hard case with 4 latches on it. Like mentioned above, I pack all around my gun with clothes, ammo, binos, and any other accessories I'm bringing. This serves as extra padding and protection for my gun, and takes advantage of all possible space available to me. You're allowed 50 lbs/bag, and I try my best to get as close to that number as possible.

I don't currently see the case I am mentioning on Cabela's website, but I know they have carried it in the past. Below is a link to it on SKB's website.

http://www.skbcases.com/sports/sku.php?cat=9&pid=15&sku=3i-5014-DB

[dirt road ninja]

I do not own one, but I did look hard at the knock off pelican case that harbor freight sells. They put them on sale for 99.99 all the time. I don't think the name brand cases are so much better to warrant the prices.

[deerhunt1988]

I use a Pelican 1700 case to fly with and have been very pleased. I chose it because it is right at the maximum dimensions for checked baggage. Some airlines have exemptions for gun cases, but I didn't want to potentially face oversized luggage charges from non-exemption or some anti-gun airline employee. The downside is a shotgun won't fit assembled, but that doesn't bother me. If anything, makes it easier for TSA if they decide to check it.  I use a reflex sight and disassembly/reassembly doesn't affect the POI.

[Swather]

There is an abundance of quality cases out there.  I have a couple of Browning polymer cases and a metal Americase.  I've used Kalispell and another one as well, and believe the metal case makers have consolidated such the Americase absorbed Kalispell and someone else.  One of them made cases for Cabela's back when, Cabela's still has a "Bullet Proof" case that will work fine.  The important thing is to have good foam and lock them, and be there to deal with the TSA when they inspect them so you can ensure they are locked and wrapped in duct tape as a seal.  IMO, it is better to have external locks in the event someone in midstream decides it it essential to enter your case and inspect your guns.  If they cut a lock to inspect, it can be more easily replaced than an integrated lock built into the case.

Pelican cases are good as well.

I believe you will need at least a 36" breakdown case for semiautos because the components are longer when broken down than an O/U or SxS.

[Crghss]

As mentioned I add all kinds of gear in my case. Hunting knife, calls, ammo, cloths for extra padding. Getting as close too 50 lbs as possible. I use an inexpensive hard case I got at Walmart years ago. Its durable and locks up tight. All that you need.