I just returned from African and flew the Delta route to JNB.

The most aggravating issues on the travel with my rifle was upon return to ATL. After going through passport control and the gun inspection, I was given my rifle to recheck onto my connecting flight. I was walking across the carousel area with my cased and locked rifle to the TSA inspection/recheck station when approached by by a suited security person that asked my what I was doing with a gun! He called out to another similarly suited person that I had a gun. Both then informed me that I had to be escort by a customs agent to TSA and they would have to find a law enforcement officer. Luckily, one was nearby and he chuckled at this person and told him to let me be on my way.

Mind you that there were probably 20 guns being processed and one could clearly see others rolling their cases to the TSA point.

The TSA inspection went a bit more smoothly, until I was informed that protocol dictated that they open the gun case from both sides and pull any foam cushioning from both sides to the case wall. I like to cut my foam and place my sling, binos, flashlights, etc in very carefully. This flip caused a few things to shake loose. The lady was able to get everything back somewhat in place and without damaged. I was given a paper with a number to call if I had any comments.

I had flown SAA legs where the ammo had to fly separate. Since I was back on Delta, I decided to place my ammo back in my suitcase. I rolled out of the way to do so. When I opened my bag, a third person came up to me and informed me that I was not supposed to open my luggage in this area. He kindly allowed me to finish after a few words.

In flying between three countries and two airlines, the return to my own country with my own rifle that requires no registration or licensing was the most aggravating experience of the trip. To be fair, the actual police and CBP agents were quite professional, the issues were with these "herders" that direct people and the a slight issue with TSA protocol I had not experienced in other travels.

The only thing consistent with TSA and CBP is inconsistency. I was recently explained the protocol is that firearms cases should only be handled by TSA, CBP, or while under their supervision.

Safe travels

That’s why I try and have at least a 3 hour connect time at ATL.

BH63

After standing in line for my inspection at Atlanta. we were called in pairs to come in for our gun inspection, and then i was told to wait out side the door for a guided walk to the TSA booth for there inspection.

no walking on your own.

easy to follow the rules.

Atlanta is the worst place to fly into with firearms.

I don't understand the whole issue of checking the serial number to ensure it is not stolen. They don't seem to ever check that when you fill out the customs form...why not? If they truly cared, they would.

Got news for you, Dulles is not much better. The past two trips have been a circus, with untrained TSA staff, and every time they insist on changing the rules.

What used to take 10 minutes is now 30-40

Oh, and I had my 4457 laminated...and caught heck for that as now I had "altered" it, and that was not allowed.