The airlines have been a nighmare for flying firearms for the past 20 years. And every year it is getting worse. They can do whatever they want when you are in the airport standing there with your weapon. you will be forced to pay them whatever they want. So my question is why put yourself in that situation?? I remember one time in Nashville, the airport(not the airline) confiscated 2 boxes of WBY. ammo. And they would not give it back.

The best thing to do is to ship your rifle through Fed Ex before you fly. This cost for shipping is normally $20-$30. And it is worth every penny. You will know for sure that your rifle is there before you even leave home.

Not only is the charges that the airlines charge ridiculous. You also have to pay them extra to guarantee that they will not loose your luggage. Lost luggage is a real problem. I learned long ago that you should always ship your most essential equipment ahead of time, and make sure it is where you are going. That little extra cost is worth the peace of mind. That little extra cost can makekeep a very enjoyable trip from turning into a nighmare. I know this for sure, because it has happened to me.
I remember standing in the Denver airport, and my Sage fly rods were in Albuquerkee(spelling). And once my rifle turned up in Salt Lake City. Never again for me. I got my stuff back. But the problem was it was waiting for me in Nashville when I got back!! Tom.