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Bringing a scope into SA

My son, who lives in NY is coming to visit us at the end of March (can't wait haven't seen him in 9 years). I have asked him to purchase me a Nikon Monarch scope and bring it with. Anybody followed this route? Would there be problems with US or SA customs etc. etc. Your advise/recommendations would be appreciated. Thanks
 
I am pretty sure that without an export license from the State Department your son would be taking a chance on getting an ITAR violation. Look up ITAR on the US State Department for better and factual information on this issue, other agencies may tell you that it is fine to do the export because it does not violate any of their rules.

Proceed with caution
 
Thanks, will do. For the record we have no intention of doing anything illegal, its just I have so often heard of folks bringing in cameras etc. without any hassels. A scope is of course part of a firearm, hence my need for advise.
 
I flew out of the US (San Fran) last year with a scope and the TSA guy I spoke with advised me to place it in the hold luggage, otherwise, he didn't have any issues whatsoever.
It was still in the case when I opened it at the other end. You'd have to check with SA customs as to their rules on importing scopes and as to whether they view them as gun parts.

Richard.
 
brno308 said:
Thanks, will do. For the record we have no intention of doing anything illegal, its just I have so often heard of folks bringing in cameras etc. without any hassels. A scope is of course part of a firearm, hence my need for advise.

A scope is NOT a part of a firearm.
 
I have hunted in SA on two different occasions. The way I read and understand the import/export laws, it would somehow require the properly licensed person to ship it there. The primary use of a scope is to be mounted on a firearm. Don't even try to stash it in your luggage on an airline. It's illegal.
 
Remember the TSA guys are not in the department that makes and enforces the rules re: export and import of defense-related articles, so I would not bet my freedoms on their advice about export of a scope.

Keep in mind the laws are federal so they do not need to make sense, but violating those laws have real consequences.
 
I think sinclair ships international.I am sure there are other folks who do it too.
 
I came back from DC with a Nightforce scope in my checked luggage last year. It was surrounded by brass, bullets and other firearm gear. I had export papers for the brass and bullets for the TSA and customs guys placed at the top of the stuff with a big note. When I retrieved my luggage in SA the note was gone and the stuff had been examined but nothing was removed.

Then you take the Green lane.........

TSA check EVERYTHING with an X-ray so don't chance it taking out ITAR Items. Scopes are OK, Night vision is a big no no.They are very good and very professional so don't diss them.
 
And I though quick detach mounts were our lord's intervention against "throwers" breaking expensive glass. My scope flies coach, not hold :)
 

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