I have a handful of friends that remove the bolt and wrap it in a sock etc. Not me. Always keep the bolt in the rifle. I think there is a much greater chance of it going missing if your case is opened than if you keep it in the action.I've always leave my bolt action in one piece.
Lot less problems if one piece ends up missing somehow
Yes thats what I'm contemplating.Get a good case and keep it all together. The risk of losing or have a bolt, scope, stock, etc goes way up if it is not a complete gun.
Not a bad idea. Could slip the bolt in an old sock before taping it to the barrel. However, because I have two guns side by side in the case, having the bolt handles stuck in the foam is not such a bad thing. Anchors the guns and helps keep them from banging into each other when the case is set on its side.I take my bolt out and tape it to barrel. If I had a larger heavier case I would leave it in one piece but taking bolt out lets it fit easier in case. I also think it’s a little less alarming to airline and customs staff that way.
If you don't cut out the foam, buy a couple of cheap slip-on recoil pads. Put them on the rifles in case they move around in the case. That way muzzle cannot mark the buttstock next to it. Take them off when you get to the lodge/camp.I got a pelican 1750 after looking around for. a sturdy case. I plan to carry both my double and bolt in a single case. Still deciding to cut out the foam for dismantled rifles or carry as one.
I do little traveling any more, when I do or did I traveld as you do except I remove the bolt put it in two socks and snuggly tie rap to bbl. Proper screw driver and bits packed in case.First couple of trips I brought my rifles in a full sized Peli case(1720?) then I saw the pain and hassle of pulling this through airports, loading into the truck etc.
since then I dismantle my rifle, action out of the stock and action screws firmly screwed back in ! I I transport them now in a Peli 3220. Smaller and more convenient. After a beer, or two and unpacking on arrival at the destination the next thing is checking the zero on your rifle/s. I have never noticed a significant difference in POI.
Most of my personal kit fits in the rest of the case and my carryon. I have learnt to travel light and the daily laundry in Africa is of great benefit.
Project accomplished, I decided to keep both in one piece and cut out the foam. I think I did a OK job, pictures coming.