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  1. VanderLaan

    Taxidermy Floor Pedestal Mount Ideas

    Contemplating the taxidermy for my last trip and I am considering a floor pedestal. Would like some ideas and/or suggestions. Thanks.
  2. VanderLaan

    Africa Window Decals/Stickers

    Contemplating a window sticker for the new truck. Around here, everyone has the flock of ducks or the deer rack, so I was thinking about an Africa theme. I found a zebra decal and thought that it would look really nice on the tinted back window, but I was curious if there is anything else out...
  3. VanderLaan

    Recommend a Shipping/Freight Company?

    Trophies arrived at the packer last Friday. Anyone care to recommend a shipping/freight company? I assume that it is separate from the dip & pack? Thanks much-
  4. VanderLaan

    Recap of My First Safari...

    In August of 2011, I won a seven day hunt for two with Hercules Safaris, in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa. The hunt, which was donated to the local SCI chapter, was 2x1 and included Blesbok, Black Wildebeest, Impala, Duiker and Bush Pig. I shared the hunt with my friend and neighbor...
  5. VanderLaan

    Proof of Immunizations?

    Less than three weeks from my trip to RSA. Someone told me that on their last trip to the RSA they were asked for proof of immunizations by an immigration official (not sure if it was SA or US). Do I need this? Any thoughts or experiences?
  6. VanderLaan

    Lockable Ammo Case?

    Looking for something for that I can use to put my ammo in for my upcoming trip to SA. The only lockable case I can find are the dry boxes that hold 200 rounds of ammo. What do you guys use?
  7. VanderLaan

    What do I need to know about the TSA?

    I tend to drive everywhere and this will be my first international flight (with or without a gun). Having no experience with the TSA, I would be interested in any tips or "must know" information that you might have for me. Last thing I want to do is get in a bind in the airport.
  8. VanderLaan

    Ever Clear Your Own Trophies?

    I would hate to pay someone for something I can do myself. I live relatively close to Chicago, so I am curious what clearing my trophies through customs entails. Ever do it? Any problems? Tips? Where can I get more information on the process?
  9. VanderLaan

    Recommend Outfits for D&P and Shipping?

    Hunting in SA (MPumalanga) this September and my initial thought was to rely on my PH to recommend someone for D&P and a shipper. However after reading several threads about shoddy D&P and shipping agents, I am bit spooked about relying on my PH's recommendations. Anyone have suggestions or...
  10. VanderLaan

    Judging Animals As Representative

    Going to RSA for my first safari this fall. Hunting PG and the wish list is Kudu, Waterbuck, Gemsbok and Zebra. Package also includes a blesbok, black wildebeast, impala, bush pig and steenbok. That said, I am going into this with an open mind (and checkbook). Simply put, if my PH hits me on...
  11. VanderLaan

    Would it be a problem taking a rifle with a stainless barrel to Africa?

    This May Be a Stupid Question, but.... Would it be a problem taking a rifle with a stainless barrel to Africa? Got a potential deal on a tack driver, but is it synthetic stock with a stainless barrel and scope. Your thoughts?
  12. VanderLaan

    Hard Case for Rifle?

    Need a double case that will stand up to abuse from the airlines. Any suggestions? Thanks.
  13. VanderLaan

    Recommend a Bullet for Me?

    Going to SA next year. Using a 30.06 and 180 grain weight. I hunt in IL and we are limited to shotguns, muzzleloaders and handguns for deer. As such, I have no experience with bullets for rifles. I intend to discuss this with my PH, but I am looking for an education and options so I can make...
  14. VanderLaan

    Gifts to Clinics, Villages, Orphanages, etc.?

    I was at an SCI banquet and the SCI rep mentioned their "SafariCare Bags" program that they use to collect donations for local clinics, orphanges, schools, etc. This caught the eye of my GF and she really wants to try and put something together for our trip next year. I intend to discuss it...
  15. VanderLaan

    Framing/Construction Advice for Trophies?

    I am currently building a "great room" addition to my house. The ceiling is vaulted and about 13' at the peak and 9' at the walls. There will be a stove pipe right up the middle of the exterior end wall where most of the trophies will be placed (virgin trip next year). The drywall is...
  16. VanderLaan

    "Must Haves" for a Plains Game Hunt in RSA?

    Making my maiden voyage to RSA in 2012 for plains game hunt. I intend to discuss this with my PH, but I would appreciate any suggestions on "must haves" so that I can get them together. Thanks-
  17. VanderLaan

    CZ 550 Rifle Opinions?

    CZ offers a nice discount for hunter safety instructors. Looking at a 550 American. Anyone have an opinion on this model? Performance? Accuracy?
  18. VanderLaan

    I Would Appreciate Some Advice on a Hunting Trip to Africa...

    Contemplating a trip to Africa. The GF will come along and observe. I would like to take a Kudu, Zebra, Gemsbok and a Waterbuck (maybe an Impala or warthog as well). So my questions are: What country? From what I have read, SA seems to be the place for a rookie hunting PG. If that is the...
 
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