Do the airlines charge you an oversize fee for a bow case as one of your checked luggage items? It would not be over the weight limt but the total inches allowed.

I think most airlines consider it a piece of sporting equipment, and therefore exempt from the size restrictions.

It is best to call the airline and ask them to send something in writing. Most post their policy on the web but it may not be spcific. I have traveled with skis, golf clubs and a rifle case and not been nipped. I don't see why the bow case would be an issue.

Like it was said, most airlines will take one bow case as one checked bag. Here's Continental's policy, check the web for other airlines.

Archery Equipment
Continental accepts one item of archery equipment per customer in lieu of one piece of free baggage. All items must be properly encased in a suitable container.

An item of archery equipment consists of:

1 bow case containing bows
1 quiver with arrows
Maintenance Kit of sufficient strength to protect items from accidental damage.
Archery equipment carried in addition to the free baggage allowance will be assessed at current excess baggage charge.

Continental is not liable for damage to archery equipment that is not contained in a hard-sided case.

I have never been charged extra for a bow case and one bag of luggage. Flew on Delta.

Try and check two bags with the bow case and I've seen folks get hit for that.

I have also had a bowcase boogered up pretty good flying. The samsonite gorilla must have been working that day. So make sure it's a tough case.

A friend went from Atlanta to Windhoek last year, and checked both a bow case, and a rifle case with SAA. Packed some odds and ends of clothing in the bow case, and everything else in his carry-on. No problems whatsoever.