Got a call in to Wyatt Fetner, but for shits n giggles thought I'd ask. My ele hide & tusks got here last year.

My baby is getting his Doctorate in Music at UNT and plays the trombone. There's a famous Brazilian trombone case mfg he's mentioned in the past. Thought I'd have one made for him out of that hide.

Even though it just ain't worth the fn hassle.........

Now that my hide is in my possession, is it still considered a trophy or now once having gone through US customs is it now considered a possession similar to any "curio" item/piece of leather or belonging and no longer requires taxidermist/dipping/whatever documentation(s).....rather than those needed for a primary direct import from Africa to Brazil?

Is the declaration of "leather" sufficient?

Dunno. I'll have to ask the company but curious to see what y'all think.

I believe a permit from USFWS would be required for any transfer other than intrastate. I’m pretty sure it could be done and a knowledgeable shipper should be able to get it done. Not sure about re-import, though. The way I read the regulations when I wanted to receive some elephant hide caused me to reconsider. The corridor in Atlanta Hartsfield have several pairs of elephant hide boots on display that were seized upon arrival from Africa. Since you already own the hide it might be really easy. I’d be cautious of anyone trying to call such an item a “museum article or display”, you can read on USFWS site about that.

Why can’t you have the case made in the States??

Oh I can buy any other case and have it wrapped from any of the leather guys here in Texas.

I had 3 (cowboy) hat bands made from the tanned scrotum of the first buff I shot with a bow.

That’s not the issue. I’m just curious.

Again, prolly not worth the hassle as the quantum sink will ultimately come down to an FDA/CBP fat ass Walmart shopper on duty at the time.

Never thought of reimportation. Thanks for that!

I could be wrong but I'd also worry a bit about him getting on with a gig playing with a band or such after graduation and traveling to someplace like California with that case.

Cheers
Jim