I have drawn an Elk and Mule deer tag for Montana. I am going to fly to Great Falls in late October and hunt first week of November. It looks like NorthWest Airlines is the best choice for getting there from Raleigh NC. Is Northwest "hunter and gun friendly". Any experience good or bad? Thanks, Odessa

Flew them to Michigan a couple years ago and had no problems at all. They DO have maximums on gun case size (can't be more than 55" as I recall, that's HxWxD) so you might want to call them and check it out.

Note: You'll probably get two different answers if you call both the national 1-800 number and your local office. They have all this posted on their website.

Hello,
I can't speak for the airline on your end, but I would be supprised if you have any problems in Great Falls. I grew up in NW Montana and lived in Great Falls for 3 years (I plan on moving back in about 10 months). I have flown in and out of Great Falls with firearms, with no problems. The big words to remember are "I have an UNLOADED firearm to declare.". If you are going it alone (without a guide) be very careful, Montana (and many land owners) are cracking down on people hunting without permission. Much of the state (something like 75%) is private land, and the "East side" (East of the Rockies) is mostly private land. If you are going back into "the Bob" (aka the Bob Marshall Wilderness), you should have a great time. Beautiful country, and there are some BIG critters in there. If you have an overnight in Great Falls you have to have dinner at Eddie's Supper Club (2nd. Ave North and 38th. or there about). Their Campfire steak or Campfire prime rib is the best you will ever eat. Good luck, if you have any area specific questions or questions on the town, I might be able to help.

Sincerely,

Kevin

I live in North Dakota and fly in and out of Bismarck on Northwest. I've been in and out during the hunting season. Walked in one day to pick up an arriving relative and there were more men and boys with cased shotguns than regular passengers in line checking in. The only mention of the firearms by the stafff was to ask if the gus was unloaded. They didn't blink and eye. Had to be at least 30 "armed" men there. And this was after 9/11. You ought not have a problem. My wife, sister and a niece all work for a travel agency. They always say, if in doubt, call and ask.