Taking Combination Guns to South Africa

[csmcclain]

I live in the US, and I’m looking at a classic combination gun. Obviously, they check your gun’s stamps for the caliber when you’re checking it at customs. Has anyone ever had an issue with bringing one over to South Africa or subsequent issues with ammo being approved? My main concern is multiple calibers/gauges confusing agents in the US or ZA. Thanks!

 

[Clifford Johnson]

This year I took a Valmet 412, 12 gauge/7x65R. No problems. They don't check the ammo, or at least they didn't mine. For caliber I listed 12 gauge/7x65R. I did take ammo for both.

 

[csmcclain]

Thanks, Clifford! That’s really my only reservation to purchasing one right now. Was looking at potentially getting a 9.3x74r/12 gauge combo to cover literally every animal on the plains or in the sky.

 

[Troubleshooter]

Haven't taken one there on safari, but I like your idea. Especially since you're planning to hunt furred and feathered creatures. One potential issue you might run into is exceeding the weight limit on ammunition. That 12 ga. is heavy.

My recommendation is to experiment with different combinations of rifle vs. shotgun ammo to see where you meet the weight cutoff. Or just concentrate on the rifle cartridges and ask your PH to pick up the appropriate shotshells prior to your arrival.

 

[csmcclain]

Haven't taken one there on safari, but I like your idea. Especially since you're planning to hunt furred and feathered creatures. One potential issue you might run into is exceeding the weight limit on ammunition. That 12 ga. is heavy.

My recommendation is to experiment with different combinations of rifle vs. shotgun ammo to see where you meet the weight cutoff. Or just concentrate on the rifle cartridges and ask your PH to pick up the appropriate shotshells prior to your arrival.

I would probably do 40 rounds of rifle ammo and just a box or two of #4 lead—enough for geese, francolin, and guineas. But I’ve gotta get the gun first…

 

[Troubleshooter]

I would probably do 40 rounds of rifle ammo and just a box or two of #4 lead—enough for geese, francolin, and guineas. But I’ve gotta get the gun first…

Well there is that! First things first.
But it is also good to see you planning ahead regarding its care & feeding.