I have heard several people mention that in some African countries you can't take in two guns of the same calibers. Does that mean "caliber" or "cartridge." In other words, does that mean you can't take a 9,3X74R double and a 9,3X62 bolt, different cartridges but both .366 diameter bullets. Same would apply to 500 Jeffery and a 500 NE double, both .510 diameter.

I believe that as long as the brass has a different headstamp, you will be ok.

Dave,

As far as I know RSA is the only country where there is an issue about two rifles of the same caliber. I think the 9.3 designation on both might give you a problem. You can get around this by having an invite letter from your PH stating you need the second rifle for a back up. Gracy Travel can handle all of that for you.

Mark

A few years ago, my son and I hunted RSA. He with a 30/06 and I with a 300 H&H. There were no issues but as Mark stated, the 9.3 on both might be a problem for them.

However, IIRC, the regulations for RSA state that a permit will not be issued for more than one rifle of the same caliber except under certain conditions. Getting your permits on arrival in RSA is usually the norm but this might be an instance in which getting the permits ahead of time would be worthwhile. Send in the SAPS forms with a statement clarifying the difference between the two 9.3s and further giving them a reason for the two and if they issue the permits prior to your departure, you should be good to go. If you aren't going through RSA, there should be no issue. However, don't bet on transiting through RSA with no layover. That was my plan this past October and 24 hours prior to departure, the JNB/HRE leg was cancelled that evening, dictating a stay overnight in JNB. You can't really count on not having to clear the guns in JNB if you travel through that airport.

Dave,

As Todd pointed out and I should have elaborated on get all the paperwork handled and gun permit approved before you arrive RSA and you'll be fine. Pitch up at O.R. Tembo with two 9.3's and who knows. "It will probably be ok" is never a good policy with international travel.

Mark

Thanks guys.....

Namibia allows only one gun per hunter for a specific cartridge. My companion had rifles in .300 Win and .30-06 in the same case with no problem.

You have to remember that most people checking firearms aren't gun people. I think the "caliber" thing could be interpreted as bore diameter or specific cartridge depending on who you saw so trying to take in two guns with the same bore diameter would be a bit risky without pre-approved gun permits.