Is it ok to import Laser range finder..

[Hannu]

Let's try it here also, if someone would have better information...

I was planning to import some optics with me to US / Colorado. I understood: no mildot scopes and I leave my mildot scopes home. But is it ok to bring laser range finder with me for hunting / sport shooting ?

My range finding device is this, no military item I think... :
http://www.opticsplanet.net/swarov-lzrngfinder-70002.html

[theGinsue]

I'm aware of EXPORT controls on these items, but I've not heard of any IMPORT controls/restrictions on these items. However, Finand may have export restrictions.

Anyone else have input on this?

[GunTroll]

Reticule restrictions?

[theGinsue]

Good point GunTroll. I couldn't imagine either Finland or the U.S. having any sort of restrictions pertaining to standard optics, regardless of the reticle.

When I initially read this thread - and responded to it I was focused on the laser aspect. I know that the U.S. has restrictions regarding exporting technical data and equipment for different optics that use lasers, especially NVG's. All of this is covered by ITAR, the International Traffic in Arms Regulation. Here is a link to the U.S. Dept of State - Directorate of Trade Controls which handles ITAR:
http://www.pmddtc.state.gov/regulations_laws/itar.html

While there is mention of "temporary import", it specifically refers to defense articles.

I've had to learn a little about ITAR through the years but I must say that this is really beyond my area of expertise and I don't want anything I say to be taken as legally binding advice.

ETA: Reread the original post (again)--- while this isn''t a cheap product, it is something that is readily available to citizens and comsumers in the U.S. (very nice rangefinder by the way). I think the only issues would be whatever Finland may impose and Uncle Sam's typical taxation "for use" for bringing a high value item into the U.S.

[Hannu]

Thank you guys ! Reticle is just a circle - no mildot or anything like that.
Finland does not have any problem with importation. Only things they are interested in are firearm pressure related parts, like chambered barrel and bolt.

Swarovski LG is (at this writing) the best general LRF I have tested, and I have tested some of them ;) LG is quite compact and lightweight, anyhow measures to ~2200 meters (in good weather conditions) and has optic good enough for spotting.
Leica and Zeiss have published binocular type LRF devices, but at least Zeiss is quite big and heavy (2+ lbs).

[SA Friday]

I dealt with ITAR while a Federal Agent a bit. I know of NO restrictions on importing or exporting a scope with a mil-dot. It's just a scope.

If you are flying into Colorado to hunt and coming from Finland, your issue will be passing through US Customs. I doubt you would have a problem bringing a commercially available laser range finder into or out of US Customs. With that said, you should look up their contact info and call them and ask.

http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/toolbox/contacts/ports/

I would start by calling your port of embarkation and go from there. I would suspect this question isn't unusual considering the amount of foreign hunters that come in to the USA every hunting season.

[Hannu]

Thank you for info !
I called to Denver airport customs office and they told me to fill ATF form #6. But, as far as I can see, that form is only about firearms and ammunition...
Is there something I do not understand ?

[sniper7]

Thank you for info !
I called to Denver airport customs office and they told me to fill ATF form #6. But, as far as I can see, that form is only about firearms and ammunition...
Is there something I do not understand ?
\

i doubt they know anything. you shouldn't have any worries over a scope. they are made all over the place and taken everywhere for hunting.

now if it was a US military laser designator, then they might raise an eyebrow.

[RYAN50BMG]

"laser"