Guns in Australia at least have always been part of the 20 kg limit. They do allow a little "licence" in having two cases instead of the required one checked bag though (obviously as ammo and firearms have to be kept separate).
The USA of course may be different. Eg I have seen reference to two bags allowing to be checked as standard.
-------------------- John aka NitroX
...
Govt get out of our lives NOW!
"I love the smell of cordite in the morning."
"A Sharp spear needs no polish"