Suppressors prohibited for temporary import into South Africa?

[Sabre]

I have wanted to take my suppressors and thermals on hunts overseas multiple times, but I just feel like there is too much gray area for me. I know lots of people go through and have no issue. A couple others get a big hassle when doing it. I have some of the worst luck possible with stuff like this. So, I am about 100% sure I would be made an example of. I would be knee deep in the FO portion of FAFO.

 

[5shot]

Id buy one there and leave it with the PH for next time.

 

[wlambert]

What does ITAR say about temporary importation and if so, how and why are people misinterpreting it?

Ask two people and you get 10 different answers. I'm on the fence whether to bring mine in June. Suppressors are listed as a US Munitions example in the ITAR, but so are muzzle breaks. Our government is so frustrating.

 

[Green Chile]

I brought thermal optics last year with no issues. Had them on a 4457. I asked my CBP boss friend about suppressors and he said no problem but suggested a 4457.

 

[Javaman]

We’ve been down this road multiple times. There are great threads with great info, including my post earlier in the thread.

IMHO you are over thinking it.

YMMV,

Good luck.

 

[jpr9954]

My thought it is cheaper and safer to just buy or borrow a suppressor in South Africa. Silencers and suppressors remain on the US Munitions List and were not removed to the Commerce Department List in 2020 along with many other items.

Now does anyone have any experience with Warrior Suppressors? That is one my PH is suggesting. Price is just over $200 or so.

 

[Sabre]

We’ve been down this road multiple times. There are great threads with great info, including my post earlier in the thread.

IMHO you are over thinking it.

YMMV,

Good luck.

Multiple people have reported going to multiple CBP stations and being refused to sign 4457s for suppressors. People have been told (by CBP) that the correct way to do it is that they have to get export licenses. Which is cost prohibitive for reasonable individuals (considering the cost of a suppressor in Africa).

You are giving advice and telling people they are overthinking it based on one good experience you had where no one bothered you about yours.

There is clearly a lot of conflicting information about suppressors, thermals, and other ITAR items when it comes to international travel. It is not "overthinking" to ask clarifying information about something that could come with serious ramifications.

Yes, it is brought up every so often on the site, but rules and regulations change constantly. So, maybe someday someone asks again and a new law or rule has been passed that clarifies it definitively. Until then, I'm glad people bring up new threads to discuss the current standing of the situation from time to time.

 

[Javaman]

Thank you for the perspective. Upon reflection you are right, I was being dismissive of the challenges, or oversimplifying, or both. It’s truly a bit murky as you correctly point out. No harm intended, I’m standing down.