I traveled extensively for work for years....I really disagree with keeping the case unlocked...Especially going through Chicago. I've never one time went through Chicago without getting tools,etc. stolen from the airport that weren't locked up. I started using the Pelican Cases for my expensive equipment. They're unbreakable and that ended my problem with the Chicago Baggage handlers. They made my life a living hell quite a few times.
At least zip tie your case. I put a big strap around my bow case too. Just to make it a pain to open. The tsa may cut locks or ties on occasion but they don't do it all the time. I'm going to be flying with a pistol in my checked baggage. I have a cable from the frame of the suitcase going through the handle of the locked case. It isn't theft proof but hopefully just enough of a pain that it won't get stolen. Wish me luck. Lol
Man I don't know how you guys can trust leaving your cases unlocked. I know people who have worked in airports and a lot of the workers steal from the luggage's all the time. And they also seem to treat the more expensive luggage worse then the rest. Such a shame that this stuff can happen. If you do get a lock, don't get a common lock because they most likely have the key for that and will probably have a key for it and be able to open it up. But the people that posted on this thread have way more experience with this then I do.
I hunt every year in the north east and ship my bow by UPS. would recommend that if possible. I don't let them pack my case in a big box and all that because of the extra cost. If you use a good case like SKB, pack it with clothes so everything is padded, and lock and tape the latches it should ship fine as is. I always lock the case. I've done it that way for the last 7 years without a problem. My primary concern is the bow getting lost, stolen or damaged so shipping it in advance I can confirm it arrived before flying up so if needed I can grab my backup bow and take it on the flight. SKB cases are great. I did use a Plano a couple years but put it in a second box and really padded it up. SKB doesn't need that. SOUTHWEST also treats them well if you have to tak eit with you. good luck.
I purchased a SKB case, just finishing getting the last few things before I fly out. Really the only thing I'm worried about is a lock. Because they probably have keys to all common locks I'm gonna go look for something a little different. Sent from a note in a bottle.
