Actually, not real firearms, but replicas; however, I hear they are handled the same way. I’ve done a little research, and it seems you can transport firearms in checked baggage if you declare it up front, don’t pack it with ammo, leave the magazine out, and keep it in a locked case. This may only apply to the US, though. What I want to know is, will following this procedure for transporting replicas be okay if I’m flying to a country where guns are illegal but replicas are common? What steps should I take to ensure there are no problems at either end?
The consulate or embassy for this country would be my starting point. Or google that country and the organization you will be visiting (I assume you aren’t carrying this for giggles), and ask them for the law references. I assume they have dealt with this before.
Might it be easier to ship it ahead?