Bringing a Scope into UK from USA

[KentCountryGent]

I've brought scopes back and forth from the US to the UK and vice versa multiple times (in my hand luggage, NEVER my checked bag) with no issues or questions other than once on the way out through Gatwick. You'll get pulled occasionally through security with a 'What is this?' question. Give a simple, honest response - 'it's a telescopic sight for hunting' and they send you on your way. Might swab it for gunpowder or explosive residue but that's it.

 

[Jeebs]

I brought a Leupold VX5HD through Denver, Co with absolutely no issues in November last year.

Stupidly I forgot about a bottle of water in my bag so had to go through the whole search etc. the only question about the scope I got was “cheaper in the US huh?!” and was let on my way. They didn’t inspect it or open the box, for all the TSA knew it could have been some super sexy underwater knife fighter kit!

 

[DeerDucksFishin]

Hi all,

I am going over to the states with work and was looking at getting a Scope while over stateside as prices seem favourable compared to in the UK.

does anyone know if you can get away with fitting it in hand luggage or does it have to be checked in the hold (which i wouldn't plan on doing as I normally just travel light)

and, are there any hiccups when you get into the UK. flights is going to be from Houston to Schiphol or Heathrow then to Aberdeen

thanks in advance

I brought back onw from USA last year that i purchased in Boston when i arrived i spoke to the ITAR at Boston airport he actually was nice enough to send me an email stating that its fine to buy optics and and reloading equipment ( apart from primers and powder off course) and told me when i returned just speak to the ITAR desk show them the email if they have issues and actually advised to hand carry the scope and everything else in the luggage. When i returned two months last went to the same desk explained the situation and showed them what i purchased they said no issues just check in as normal, nobody bothered me at check in or baggage check. Save about 400 quid on a scope. When i got back to Glasgow Via dublin they are about as much use as tits on a bull and never even there so walk through no issues