Heading to Joberg next week. Can anyone confirm whether S.Africa considers a crossbow a "firearm" or "weapon" which would require registration upon entry? The various website &outfitter and PH) are neither clear nor specific whether I can bring a crossbow into S.Africa.

Did you use one of the travel agencies that specialize in African hunting travel, like Gracy Travel or Travel with Guns? If so, ask them as they will advise exactly what you need to do.

No, travelling there for employer and planning to hunt while I am there (for 6 months or more). Trying to understand whether Republic of South Africa considers crossbows "weapons", or whether I can simply pack it with my checked luggage without paperwork.

I took several animals with a crossbow that belonged to my PH Bossie Mostart including a bull giraffe, but I never traveled into the country with one. Check with Bossie and he will be glad to fill you in on the details I'm sure.


https://www.lbgsafaris.com/

THanks for all the help. Zero restrictions importing crossbows to S.Africa.

The only cautionary note for others is to beware connecting thru Amsterdam. Crossbows are okay, but broadheads are verboten.