I'll be BOW hunting, no firearms.

Should I prepare a 4457 for bows, and/or should I also include cameras, binoculars, etc.?

Thanks.

I would, what the form is a form of proof that you bought them in the US. If you buy items outside of the US then the US wants its taxes paid on those items when re-entering.

The 4457 is a full-spectrum form, designed to cover any foreign made product purchased in the US. Watches, cameras, anything. Use it any way you want to.

The only requirement is that the item listed must have a serial number.

Correct.

quote:

Should I prepare a 4457 for bows, and/or should I also include cameras, binoculars, etc.?

Absolutely!!!!!

Many foreign countries believe everything should be registered and they accept the 4457 as proof that the "weapon" is your and accept the form as registration.

Without it you might actually be denied entrance to some countries.

You do not need the form to return your property to the USA! The government must prove you bought the goods overseas and are importing them in order to tax you. This law was changed by (believe it or not)...Bill Clinton. The problem is that many gov't employees are still in the dark on this.....it's better to have the form than fight gov't employee ignorance at the airport.

Just this morning, I ran over to the customs office at HSV to make a 4457 on two cameras, one video camera, and two sets of binos. I think these are less utilized for non-firearms, but it allows you to establish that you left the USA with the item and that it is not subject to a duty upon your return.

I always do it.