Re: First Pelican/Storm Shipping (Foam Question)
Recently, I've been flying from San Diego to Omaha to participate in F-class competitions at the range where I used to live. I have carried both my GAP Crusader and Hospitaller to these comps via airline, using Pelican 1750 cases for each.
When I cut out a hole for the rifle in the (middle layer) foam insert for each rifles' specific case, I made sure the rifle/scope was centered so that it had several inches foam between it and the sides of the case. Once the hole was cut, I then used clear 100% silicone glue/caulk very liberally between the middle foam insert with the hole cut out and the bottom insert, put some books evenly spaced on top of the middle layer as weights, then let it dry for a couple days.
I have had no problems (so far) and this setup seems pretty robust as far as protection of the rifle goes. Each rifle fits in its little hole pretty snugly and I leave the bolts in when I close the case, which helps keep everything nice and tight.