Airlines rated hard case recommendation.

[cmc]

I have an upcoming hunt out of state that I need to transport a shotgun via airlines. This has put me in the market for a hard case and I'm leaning towards investing in a combo style over a single gun unit. I can see transporting a single shotgun or single rifle as well a single bow. I can also see the chance of transporting a bow (30-33" axle to axle) along with a rifle (or replace with shotgun for turkeys). The rare case would be two rifles. In short my wife uses rifles and shotguns where as I bow hunt. I already have a cheap rifle hard case and a cheap bow hard case but neither would I trust in the hands of any airlines and expect to pick up the contents in same condition as handed over.

My budget is preferable something under $300. Speak up if that's unrealistic.

Thanks,
cmc

 

[jmez]

SKB ATA parallel limb double bow case.

Get the dimensions you will need for you guns. Bow will fit.

 

[tuffcity]

I use starlight cases, not sure if they make one that would fit bows and rifles.

RC

 

[mtnrunner260]

I'm in the same boat and the advice I was given from a guy who flys for hunts quite a bit is to buy one heavy enough that the airline personal can't manhandle and throw around. He suggested pelican. Though he only rifle hunts and does not own a bow so not sure how that will apply.

 

[SDHNTR]

SKB parrallel double bow case. Hunted all over the world and fly several times a year. Never once have I had any damage or sight adjustment problems.

 

[hodgeman]

I've done a lot of flying with my Pelican. Tough and the foam has endless possibility for custom fit.

 

[n2horns]

Was just looking at this too. They have many models and sizes. For rifles I use a pelican case I got.
http://www.skbcases.com/sports/sku.php?cat=12&pid=10

 

[kparrott]

I'm in the same boat and the advice I was given from a guy who flys for hunts quite a bit is to buy one heavy enough that the airline personal can't manhandle and throw around. He suggested pelican. Though he only rifle hunts and does not own a bow so not sure how that will apply.

This is good advice, I fly for a living and watch guys throw bags all the time. The only package I've seen handled with care was a kidney.

 

[kuhn4]

My Pelican 1750 has been very good for transporting 2 rifles via commercial airlines; no problems at all. I don't know if they make a case size that will fit your needs. You could check product dimensions on their website.

 

[colonel00]

I have the SKB double bow case and it is great but I fear it is too short for a rifle as well. Give me the length of your rifle and I can measure.

I am actually in the same boat as I would like to find a way to fly both a bow and rifle in one case.

 

[cmc]

Thanks a bunch guys.

It seems Pelican and SKB are ones to focus on.

cmc

 

[Where's Bruce?]

I have this one...it's ATA rated, works great, has wheels and doesn't scream STEAL ME. http://shop.opticsplanet.com/skb-ca...plusbox-beta&gclid=CMay65_7h8MCFUMLMgodmEYAlQ BE SURE TO MARK IT HAND CARRY ONLY-DEMAND I.D. SO IT DOESN'T GET MISHANDLED OR STOLEN.

 

[Jeff Martin]

Give this a look. Damn fine quality....and all kinds of choices.

http://www.strongcasebytnb.com

 

[Jeff Martin]

one more. Both are made in the USA !! I actually own this case for my bow.

http://www.americase.com/catalog/rifle-cases/

 

[Colo4x4XJ]

They're pricey but Pelican 1770 or 1780 would fit your request of carrying both with plenty of room for a spotter or binos as well. Like others I use the 1750 but it is only big enough to carry a rifle or bow, not both.

 

[rayporter]

the skb or pelican types are heavy but probably worth it. with a rifle in they will be over 20 pounds but you are allowed 50 pounds, i stuffed it with binoculars and knives and a camera. dont waste a chance to use up a weight limit.

i have a couple cases that are for 2 rifles. they have a piece of foam between the rifles. the rifles can move and i dont think i will ship with 2 rifles in a case again.
just an fyi.

i cut the foam out in the shape of the rifle and pack one rifle per case. this aint perfect either but it seems to work better.

 

[Tony Trietch]

As stated above the skb and Pelican cases are great and will do what you need.
I use Skb and have had four diff models. They are s good company that stands behind their product.
Get one that can carry two weapons. There is no reason to ever hunt away from home with out a back up weapon. Have it all ready dialed in and ready to go if the primary goes down.
Trust me.

 

[MSElkHunter]

Has anyone had any issues with airlines charging for oversized baggage on the double rifle cases. I have a SKB double and it is oversized per their regulations. My father and I flew back from Montana and the airline said oversized cases would be charged $200.

 

[colonel00]

A lot of times they will makes exceptions for cases due to the size necessity. Take a golf hard, travel case for instance. Those things are huge. Do research into any potential airline you might fly. More and more, I am finding that it is becoming "cheaper" to fly airlines like Alaska Air who may be a little more expensive on airfare but save a bunch of money and hassle on the back end with baggage and hunting related gear.

 

[realunlucky]

I've flown my double skb all over and never been charged oversized for it. I also pack it up to 49.5 lbs with my other gear.