neal455 wrote:You are lucky if you get any gun related part out of usa without a ITAR license, DSP83 export paperwork ETC.... At shot show they made a point of destroying it all that was not on export permit.......
ALL bags go through x ray now. No locks will stay on, all get cut.
Bags go through X-ray because they are looking for explosives. They don't have the time or inclination to examine every suitcase for possible ITAR/customs infringements.
If you keep your suitcases unlocked or fit TSA approved locks, then they'll just open the case, have a rummage through for explosives and anything else which might be dangerous, leave their calling card and send it on it's way.
It's the TSA examining the luggage and they don't know/don't care about ITAR licenses, DSP83 paperwork etc. so it's highly unlikely when they see your suitcase full of magazines, scopes, spares etc. that they'll do anything about it. They have enough on their plate trying to prevent terrorism to be even slightly bothered about you bringing a few gun-related bits to the UK.
Bottom line is you weigh up the risk vs. reward and either bring stuff back or don't, but lots of people do it and I don't hear reports of being caught/confiscations/fines/jail etc. so please do tell if you have any examples.
I'm not encouraging anyone to break any laws BTW, I just don't think spreading FUD is helpful.
One recent development to be aware of is the Los Angeles high capacity magazine ban now in effect which means if you pass through the Los Angeles area (or fly in/out of LAX) with a magazine in your possession which holds more then 10 rounds, they may take a dim view of it, even if you're a tourist.