Customer Reviews

SKB ATA Single Scoped Rifle Case

5 star:		(11)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

I've spent the last week scouring airline websites determining the myriad of ways they could screw me with fees or refuse to transport my rifle. This case, on paper, avoids all of them.

Most airlines have imposed oversize fees ($75 each way) for bags measuring over 62 linear inches (Length + Width + Depth). This case clocks in at 61.

It's true some airlines classify rifles as sports equipment and exempt cases from the size (but not the weight) requirement. I've also read several threads that as long as you're below the weight limit no airline agent is going to crack out a tape measure. However I have read of people getting stuck with oversize fees which often exceed the cost of the case you're traveling with.

American Airlines apparently does impose this fee and doesn't count a rifle case as sports equipment. I'm not sure about the others, but this case leaves no room for judgment (print out the dimensions (in case they get cute with you) and show them to the agent: 49 x 8 x 4).

It does not come with locking latches, but rather two slots each to be secured with padlock. When secured with two keyed padlocks this will certainly get past security. This is probably intentional and not just a cost-saving measure. The TSA website reads, "The container must be locked. A locked container is defined as one that completely secures the firearm from access by anyone other than you. Cases that can be pulled open with little effort do not meet this criterion." Because TSA employees have access to TSA master keys, having a TSA lock on your rifle case would technically not meet this definition.

Further, Delta's website reads "TSA locks are not approved for securing firearms." Thus, while TSA locks are appropriate for luggage, they are not appropriate for securing firearms cases. It would be nice to have non-TSA locks integrated into the latches but considering latches can break due to abuse by the airlines (the case provides for user-replaceable lifetime free replacement latches with same-day shipment), having the eyelets for use with padlocks is probably a better choice.

As far as the case itself, it accommodates my scoped 7MM Remington 700 BDL (it's 46 1/2" per the Cabela's site and the case says it'll accommodate a 48" rifle. It's hard to squeeze a box of ammo in with the case but it can be done; cleaning rags and some other small items should be fine. Depending on the size of your magazine, you could probably fit that alongside the rife.

The case is sturdy, the foam plush. My only hesitation is that the midpoint on the broad side of the case has a bit of give to it without the rifle in it. I believe your rifle would be protected quite well from baggage handlers throwing this around and on the ground, but if someone stood on the broad side of it, I believe you'd have some issues. Maybe that's why the manufacturer threw in $1500 content coverage.

Unlike the SKB freedom double rifle case (it's an economy model for around 149), the case secures well and doesn't require you to lay on it to close it. This case also doesn't have a cheap layer of Styrofoam in it, it just has the foam and it appears secured well to the case.

While it may seem limiting to only bring one rifle, this case will fit in the trunk of my civic without popping the seats down (unlike the double rifle freedom case).

If you need to get your rifle safely to your destination and don't want to risk the airlines stiffing you with any fees, buy this case and a couple of NON-TSA keyed padlocks. It's a quality product at a reasonable price.

----------Update-------------

I took it on a flight from Seattle, through Denver, then to Nebraska and the case worked great. The lady at Frontier Airlines said TSA locks were fine so go figure...it may vary airline to airline. I had non-TSA locks so she made sure I stuck around while they checked it out (a good idea anyway). As an aside, many airports won't simply put a rifle on the conveyor belt out or put it down the oversized ramp where skis and golf clubs come out. They'll have their baggage guy bring it to the airline's baggage office near bag claim. Just a heads up to look there and be sure to keep your claim tags. Happy travels.

I found this at several local sporting goods stores - I liked it, but they were quite expensive. I use it for my Browning x-bolt .30-06 stainless stalker with Leupold VX-3 scope - it fits perfectly and does not move around. A guy at the shooting range told me he has taken this same case to Africa on airplanes, he added another layer of foam behind the egg crate foam for a tighter fit and had no problems with the baggage handlers throwing his case around - his rifle & scope arrived without damage - just a few scuff marks on the case.

I was in need of a case for a shotgun that could fly out with me to Nebraska. I had seen this case in the bass pro catalogue for quite a bit more money and a lot more for shipping.

Ordered it from Amazon and had it delivered the next day. Shotgun fit perfectly and made it safely to and from Nebraska. TSA had no issues with the locks on the case.

Highly recommended.

The case is for my Iaito, which is a Japanese sword for doing forms. I am able to put in my wooden and my metal swords, as they both fit. The padding worked great for my first flight to San Diego and back from Sacramento on Southwest. No dings no damage to contents. I bought it for the size, 1500 dollar security, and the weight. It fits most car trunks or back seats, it is rather awkward though for carrying, altho you can buy a shoulder strap for it, which if you have a bad back, would not be a good way to carry it. I tended to hug it to my chest. The case usually comes with the TSA locks integrated into two of the latches, but this version did not, so I had to buy two separate locks for it. There are two metal brackets that overlap near each end latch, that the locks go thru. I like it for my flights, but wish it had wheels on the end for when I could just roll it. Also, did not know that the integrated latch locks were not included on this particular model.

Great product. Compact, well made case. Heavy duty hinges and latches make for a great weather tight seal. You won't be disappointed.

i bought this case for my 7mm with 26in barrel and scope. fit great. i like the fact that they offer a $1500 guarantee and that they will replace the snaps free of charge if broken. be sure to buy non-TSA locks if flying. after we landed, i almost crawled through the plane window when the baggage guy just chucked my case about 10ft onto the cart. gun was fine and none the worse for wear. i would highly recommend this case. if youre in a hurry, you may want to get expedited shipping. amazon was a little slow in getting this to me this time.

This case came sooner than expected. It was boxed very good. I did'nt know what to expect when I took it out of the box and boy was i surprised. This gun case is built very good. It looks like a 200.00+ case. The hinges are heavy duty and the latches secure the case very well. The latches in my opinion are very well made. There are two L brackets by the latches that are there for pad locks. I think that is better than having a keyed latch. The skin of the case seems nice and thick. The interior foam is very solid not like some of that cheeper stuff that falls apart. My gun fit perfectly. The case was not hard to shut with the gun in it. I would recomend this case. It is worth the price.

I purchased this case for my first rifle. I am new to hunting and I am just starting out my gun collection. I have a $850 Wichester rifle and $400 scope. It fits perfectly in the case and I have the utmost confidence that this case will keep my investment well protected. I would highly recommend this case!

Bought this case to transport and secure a Scoped 30-30 Rifle. Can also fit the sling, Box of Ammo, and small accessories. Case is very solid with durable latches. (not like the flimsy plastic cases sold in stores). Case also has 2 sets (one set at each end)of metal padlock rings to lock the case. A shoulder strap can be attached using the D Rings at either end of the case.

I use SKB cases in my Audio/Video business. When I saw an SKB gun case available that would protect my Bar Safari rifle from uncaring handlers there was little involved in making the decision to buy it and I was not disappointed. Gun case shuts tight, has nice balance and is 'Rough Road Ready'. Highly recommen! Received item on time and as described. Good job Amazon.