Turkey hunting forum for turkey hunting tips

Planning a turkey trip out west, but have never flew with my gun.
Looking for some tips from others that have done this. I like to be prepared and don't like surprises.
What are the best ways to fly with guns and ammo???
TIA

Each airline is a little different and you will be charged a separate fee from everything else for checking the gun into checked baggage which varies from airline to airline. I would suggest the best and strongest possible gun case you can buy to include being able to place padlocks on your gun case, those baggage handlers just toss stuff around and snoop.

  You can not have any parts to your gun in any of your carry-on luggage. Gun must be unloaded obviously. At the time ammo could be stored in the same case has the gun has long has it is unloaded. They will make you open your gun case to verify it is unloaded and will put a certain sticker on it verifying it was unloaded. I have only flown one time with a gin to South Dakota for a duck hunt that was put on by a non profit for wounded warriors about four years ago and it really wasn't to bad.

  Whichever airline you are flying I would give them a call and see if they have any other restrictions just to be safe. And check out the fees. Happy travels brother and wish you luck.

DE OPPRESSO LIBER

I've done it multiple times. Get you the best case you can afford. They will try to destroy it. If it has a place for a lock put a lock on it. I have the Pelican gun case with 4 locks keyed alike. Use your own good locks not the crappy TSA locks. Give yourself 2 hours to check in and check in at the counter. You'll probably have to make at least 2 checks to get it in. Bubba

Last time I flew your shotgun had to be in a locked case and ammo had to be in its irginal ammo cardboard box and in a locked container. They will pull you to the side and have you open both containers. After inspection they will be put on plane. You with be checked for powder residue , have you open your carry on bag if you have one.

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Quote from: USMC0331 on February 06, 2021, 06:44:30 AM
Last time I flew your shotgun had to be in a locked case and ammo had to be in its irginal ammo cardboard box and in a locked container. They will pull you to the side and have you open both containers. After inspection they will be put on plane. You with be checked for powder residue , have you open your carry on bag if you have one.

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Forgot about the powder residue, one time I was flying out of Fort Bragg on an evening flight from the airport in Fayetteville while I was out there for training. I had been at the demolitions range that morning for about 4 hours. Obviously I showered and cleaned up before I flew. They decided to randomly swab my hands for residues. Needless to say I set off the machines and they locked down the airport because the machine came back with dynamite and C4 residue on my hands from being at the range all morning. Obviously they didn't find anything and they said it happens all the time being an airport right next to a major Army installation but it was still embarrassing has could be. Everyone standing there looking at you.

DE OPPRESSO LIBER

Quote from: rakkin6 on February 06, 2021, 06:40:46 AM
Each airline is a little different and you will be charged a separate fee from everything else for checking the gun into checked baggage which varies from airline to airline. I would suggest the best and strongest possible gun case you can buy to include being able to place padlocks on your gun case, those baggage handlers just toss stuff around and snoop.

  You can not have any parts to your gun in any of your carry-on luggage. Gun must be unloaded obviously. At the time ammo could be stored in the same case has the gun has long has it is unloaded. They will make you open your gun case to verify it is unloaded and will put a certain sticker on it verifying it was unloaded. I have only flown one time with a gin to South Dakota for a duck hunt that was put on by a non profit for wounded warriors about four years ago and it really wasn't to bad.

  Whichever airline you are flying I would give them a call and see if they have any other restrictions just to be safe. And check out the fees. Happy travels brother and wish you luck.

DE OPPRESSO LIBER

Key points here.  He nailed the main thing for safe gun travel, get the best case you can afford. This is an understatement. When I started traveling by plane with a firearm, I purchased a stainless steel gun case made by Impact Case Company (ICC). This case is a double rifle case made of stainless steel with beefed up gusseted  welded corners. It has 6 heavy duty hasps that a stainless rod the length of the case slides through and locks. I bought it because the add shows a dump truck rolling over it without damage. The case is all scratched, couple small dents, but it protects my guns. If you saw this case, you would realize the stress it goes through in baggage. I am ok traveling with this case, anything less, I would be concerned. It's almost like baggage handlers don't like hunting......best of luck....

I will add one more tip. If it is a pump or semi auto. then put a zip tie through the action to make it nonfunctional without removing the zip tie. They have complimented me on this before. I think you can have  your shells in any box that is closable or made for shells and in your checked luggage. Do not leave them in a pocket or vest, you will get called to the TSA office, and that is not fun. Believe me I know this. 

Quote from: eggshell on February 06, 2021, 07:22:26 AM
I will add one more tip. If it is a pump or semi auto. then put a zip tie through the action to make it nonfunctional without removing the zip tie. They have complimented me on this before. I think you can have  your shells in any box that is closable or made for shells and in your checked luggage. Do not leave them in a pocket or vest, you will get called to the TSA office, and that is not fun. Believe me I know this.

Good idea...

I've done it many times. It is a variable process depending on the TSA process at each airport and the airline too. Buy a good quality case as the baggage handlers are in a hurry and toss around luggage like a Frisbee. I would recommend Pelican.

To simplify matters, I would not put the ammo in your gun case even if it's in the original box. Put the ammo in the original box in a separate piece of checked luggage. You can't carry the ammo in a carry on. I once had to take my ammo back to my vehicle as the woman for Delta would not let me check it as it was in a hard plastic ammo box instead of the original paper box. I tried to argue that my ammo was much more safely secured in the plastic. No go. I've later successfully checked ammo in hard plastic and have read the airline info supporting the ability to do so.

Put a good quality lock on every place on your case that has a place where a lock can fit. I used to lock my Pelican with 2 locks. I had a buddy get held up by the airlines as they wanted 4 locks on the case, never mind that there is no way to open the case with 2 locks on it. I never had an issue until some young smartass airline agent smiled at me and said it was unacceptable to take my case with just 2 locks. I argued with him over the stupidity of that and that most gun cases only have one or two places to lock the case and challenged him to try to open the case. I was pleasant, but wanted to see how he would react. He then told me I would have to go to the gift shop and try to get 2 more locks. I then fished out of my backpack 2 quality locks, smiled and put them on.

You will not have to pay any more to check a gun than any other piece of luggage. It's the same fee.

Get to the airport unless it's a small airport 2 hours ahead of your flight. TSA has different ways of inspecting your weapon. Ask the airline agent how the TSA process will work. At some airports, you never see the TSA agent and you wait at the airline counter until the TSA agent tells the airline agent that you're good to go. Other times, an airline agent accompanies you and your gun case and takes you to TSA. It is extremely variable about how the process works.

Make sure you have a key or the combo readily available.TSA does not always open the case, but usually does and will want your key or combo.

I would strongly suggest you read the info from the airline you will be flying on regarding guns and ammo and copy it and have it on you. Many of the agents do not know the policies of their airline. Equipped with the info in hand and remaining polite but firm can help at times.

You will need to open your case at the airline counter and sign and date a card that the agent will also sign. You will then place this card into the case and lock it. It's been that way for years. Go figure!

Most of the time, it is not a big deal. I have never really had TSA give me a hard time. I have had airline agents try to make things difficult as I think the antigun and antihunter crowd if given a chance to annoy you, will try to do so.

Hope you have a great hunt!!

To the OP, it really isn't difficult. 
You "must" have locks "2" on your case...preferably TSA locks which are easy to buy online or in stores.  If you have a case that has it's own second locking point, like a rod, then 1 lock works.  Most, like Pelicans etc will require the two or even 4.
I've flown many different places with firearms on different airlines...I've never been charged anything but a normal checked bag fee. 
You tell them what it is when you get to the counter.  Some have experience and some look for a coworker who has more.
They inspect it's unloaded at the counter, put the card in, you then either get called to inspect it with another agent or you get the greenlight to go about your business in 5-10 min from the agent once it's been sent back.
When you arrive it will not come out with regular bags.  Someone will bring it to the baggage claim office of your airline or a designated area to you, depending on the airport.
Shells can be in a box in the gun case or in your checked luggage separate.  ***Edited this from my original post saying they had to be separate***They do not.

Hope this helps, and have a great trip out West.

Guys I really appreciate all the info.. I will have a lay over, so is there any additional steps on my part or do I just hope to see my gun at my final destination??

They put it on next flight. They do not want the responsibility of dealing with a missing firearm.

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QuoteWhen you arrive it will not come out with regular bags.  Someone will bring it to the baggage claim office of your airline or a designated area to you, depending on the airport.
Lastly, you "Cannot" have the ammo with your firearm.  Simply have shells in a box in your separate checked baggage.  Simple.

This has been my experience as well.

Yep. You will not see your gun until you get to your final destination. In the past, I had a case that had a single locking point and that was fine. My current Pelican has four points where a lock can attach. My point is however many conceivable points that a lock can be attached--attach a lock and attach a lock with the same access code or key.

Personally, unless you don't anticipate flying with your gun often, I would not use the TSA locks. They are not as sturdy over the long haul. I have flown with firearms multiple times a year for over 30 years. you can order sturdy brass locks online from the Wilson Bohannan Company keyed the same. These locks hold out well to the abuse from the baggage handlers. If you don't anticipate flying often, then this is overkill.

Had what would have been my first out of state trip canceled last year...... I thought I was reading that your ammo HAS to be in your gun case with the gun?  I was only going to check my case and only use a carry on so I would have had no other checked bags. I always heard separate but pretty sure I found where the policy said to be with the gun, this was Amercan Airlines

American Airlines Policy
https://www.aa.com/i18n/travel-info/baggage/firearms-and-ammunition.jsp

TSA Policy
https://www.tsa.gov/travel/transporting-firearms-and-ammunition

Appears you can* have the ammunition in the gun case or your checked baggage.  I've always had another bag to check and had zero issues with it in there.  Would be hard with most gun cases to have shells in a proper box and close said case, but it is okay to do so if you can, per both these policies.

Would a pelican vault 770 be a good case??

 Go on the TSA web site look up firearms and ammunition it will give you some insight on there regulations.

The Pelican 770 is a fine case and will protect your weapon very well. However, I think it carries only one firearm and I don't think it has wheels to allow you to grasp a handle and pull the case behind you. I have a Pelican 1750. It's a bit more, but you can definitely carry 2 weapons and it's easier to handle with the handle and wheels.

My wife, adult children and bud from in town sometimes go with me, so having the option to carry 2 guns is less costly than checking another bag. It's also easier with those wheels if you have to go very far to and from your vehicle at the airport.

If it's going to be just you for the foreseeable future, go with the 770.

Quote from: Roost 1 on February 06, 2021, 10:37:03 AM
Would a pelican vault 770 be a good case??

Oh Yeah, and like someone else already mentioned I'd probably get a better lock than the TSA locks.  They are small and may not even have the clearance for that case's thickness where the lock goes thru.  Just get something brass that fits and you'll be good to go.

Also agree with PharmHunter. While you can carry the ammo in your case, I wouldn't. The airline agents don't always know their own policy. Put it in another checked bag and things will go smoother.

Quote from: PalmettoRon on February 06, 2021, 09:04:02 AM
I've done it many times. It is a variable process depending on the TSA process at each airport and the airline too. Buy a good quality case as the baggage handlers are in a hurry and toss around luggage like a Frisbee. I would recommend Pelican.

To simplify matters, I would not put the ammo in your gun case even if it's in the original box. Put the ammo in the original box in a separate piece of checked luggage. You can't carry the ammo in a carry on. I once had to take my ammo back to my vehicle as the woman for Delta would not let me check it as it was in a hard plastic ammo box instead of the original paper box. I tried to argue that my ammo was much more safely secured in the plastic. No go. I've later successfully checked ammo in hard plastic and have read the airline info supporting the ability to do so.

Put a good quality lock on every place on your case that has a place where a lock can fit. I used to lock my Pelican with 2 locks. I had a buddy get held up by the airlines as they wanted 4 locks on the case, never mind that there is no way to open the case with 2 locks on it. I never had an issue until some young smartass airline agent smiled at me and said it was unacceptable to take my case with just 2 locks. I argued with him over the stupidity of that and that most gun cases only have one or two places to lock the case and challenged him to try to open the case. I was pleasant, but wanted to see how he would react. He then told me I would have to go to the gift shop and try to get 2 more locks. I then fished out of my backpack 2 quality locks, smiled and put them on.

You will not have to pay any more to check a gun than any other piece of luggage. It's the same fee.

Get to the airport unless it's a small airport 2 hours ahead of your flight. TSA has different ways of inspecting your weapon. Ask the airline agent how the TSA process will work. At some airports, you never see the TSA agent and you wait at the airline counter until the TSA agent tells the airline agent that you're good to go. Other times, an airline agent accompanies you and your gun case and takes you to TSA. It is extremely variable about how the process works.

Make sure you have a key or the combo readily available.TSA does not always open the case, but usually does and will want your key or combo.

I would strongly suggest you read the info from the airline you will be flying on regarding guns and ammo and copy it and have it on you. Many of the agents do not know the policies of their airline. Equipped with the info in hand and remaining polite but firm can help at times.

You will need to open your case at the airline counter and sign and date a card that the agent will also sign. You will then place this card into the case and lock it. It's been that way for years. Go figure!

Most of the time, it is not a big deal. I have never really had TSA give me a hard time. I have had airline agents try to make things difficult as I think the antigun and antihunter crowd if given a chance to annoy you, will try to do so.

Hope you have a great hunt!!

Follow these instructions and you will not have a problem. Bubba

Good info here

https://youtu.be/WPfiJWPbnHQ

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 Not to argue, but to stress the importance: Read and understand the TSA policies! Read and understand the airline policies you are fling on. "I really like the above mentioned make a copy of the policy and have with." All airlines do not have the same policies! TSA does.

Last time I flied with my shotgun I used TSA locks, "As required by the airline". Had my ammo in a hard plastic pistol chase with a lock on it, inside of my shotgun chase with the shotgun. The shotgun case had 2 TSA locks on the outside. My chase has been beaten up a little over the years but I have never had a broken lock. Airline loved the luggage in this fashion and even commented on it. This was at IAD Dulles, international.

I did one time on return, go to the service desk to pick up my firearm, the attendant asked if I checked the oversized baggage carousel. I said, NO. She told me I should. I walked down there and there set my firearm going around in a circle beside a trombone! Also at IAD.

Not all airports are the same. Not all people in the airports know the rules or policies. It is your responsibility to know them,  understand them, and comply to them. Again, I like the Make a copy comment earlier. I will do that myself next time, just in case.

Be early. Last time I purchased a first class ticket, didn't have to worry about extra baggage fees or weight, just a thought. Yes, it was more expensive that way in the long run, but no hassle.

I always feel like I am doing something wrong strolling through an airport with a gun! Makes me nervous.

 So, like 15 years ago my woman's brother lived in Idaho, I bought her a plan ticket to go and see him for Christmas. She does not like winter and kept setting on the money for the ticket. Well, I got to looking at spring turkey dates in Idaho and started to develop a plan. It worked great, she held off a little longer until turkey season in Idaho would be open. That way I could go, and finance the whole trip. 

I did some recon from WV, lot harden then than now. Called and spoke with a Biologist, and came up with another plan.

The brother lived in Victor Id, I think. Right across the Teton pass from Jackson Wyoming, so we would be flying into Jackson.

I got spooked reading all the rules about AMMO on the plane. Well, Idaho is a big waterfowl state, I didn't know that. So looking I found a gun shop in Idaho Falls that had shells for a 10g on the shelf in what at the time I used.  Problem solved! I would not take shells and pick some up as I traveled from the eastern part of Idaho to the western part where I was to hunt.

Everything worked great! I got to the store there set the shells, I picked them up, paid, out the door. So, I drive 8 hours total to get to the spot. I ride, its still light out, and scout. Right before dark I find a group of turkeys with a Tom in the group and some jakes as well.  Awesome, plan coming together.

So, I get to the motel in Macall Idaho I believe, start getting my gear out and blam, it happens.  12 gauge shells! I guess the moron in me took over and in hast reached down and picked up the wrong shells! So I have a 10g with 12g shell, never done it before but don't think it would work as I would want it too..... I would have if I had to, believe me!

I had noticed my neighbors down a door or two were hunters themselves. I go down, Walk of Shame, Embarrassed, and tell the story. Then, ask if either of them had a 10g that I could get some shells for? "Yea right"  Well the one fellow did, he didn't have a bunch so could only offer up two. Good enough, I gave him the box of 12's in exchange. "Thank you Sir if your on here."

I did get to use one of those shells the next day, so it worked out alright I guess. 

I cant stress enough: Read and understand the rules to fly with your weapon and ammo. Its not that big of a deal.

 

Ammo in original box and transported in the case with unloaded firearm.  May also take in checked bags. 

No TSA locks.  You should use locks that ONLY you have the key or combination to.  Point of emphasis a few years back became that TSA can't reach inside your case at all - so on a Pelican with 4 locks spaces, fill each one.  If they can crack it open and fit a finger or two in, they may give you a hard time.

I have my cell phone number on the outside of the case.  This allows TSA to easily reach you if there is a problem.  Has come in handy several times. 

I have flown with a Pelican case probably 15 times.  it looks like it has been drug behind a tractor on rocky soil.  They will abuse your case, so be sure it can stand up.  Had a master, high quality lock broken!  3 of the 4 were fine, one was just gone.  No idea what happened.

Do not, under any circumstance, fly through Toronto with a firearm.  Avoid that place at all costs - pick another route.  Just trust me on that one-long story.

It is intimidating at first but  check all the rules, be friendly, listen to instructions from the check in folks and the TSA agents (if you even see them) and it is not a big deal.  Never had anything more than a minor delay (except Toronto!).  You will be fine.  Check the policy of every airline your bags will be on as well. Palmetto Ron was spot on.

This may have been mentioned above (didn't read) but Dave Owens has a good video explaining the ins and outs of flying with a firearm


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Great video by Dave Owens.  I just watched it. 

Be careful with disassembly.  Make sure it is very well padded (he gets to that).  Learned that the hard way.  Weigh your case after it is loaded, to make sure it is under weight for your airline.

I also have the current TSA regs in my carry on, easily accessible.  Good advice.

I put all knives and such in the gun case.

Silly thing I do, but I always leave my old "Firearm Unloaded" card from previous flight.  I think it lets them know you have done it before and makes the agents more comfortable.  I just act like I forgot and toss it when they point it out.

This thread has you covered but in case you are confused.....

Read the TSA guidelines and call them if you have questions

Read the Airlines guidelines and call them if you have questions

After reading this thread I'm about to buy a better case.... Mine has gone unscathed to date (I fly Alaska).... I've heard they get excited with guns....guess I've been lucky.

Another small thing to consider which you shouldn't have flying west but for those fly east understand local ordinance. Some cities and states have much stricture guidelines then others.... Hawaii, New York, Chicago to name a few.... if they are your final destination ... pending duration of stay. The best thing is to be informed. People including agents get confused with what the rules themselves.

One other option that a buddy of mine used to do is ship your gun ahead of you. Of course you have to know someone to do that, but most outfitters will agree to it. Now shipping has tough regulations too. You have to have your gun in a cardboard box, that won't obviously reveal it's a gun. Most gun stores have boxes there guns came in. I found one my case would fit in. 

Get a good case you can lock, TSA approved locks, ammo in it original package and your good. 


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A few years ago, I flew to Kansas and South Dakota to finish my Slam.  I thought it would be a nightmare but it was easy.  Find or borrow a quality lockable gun case.  Put your gun and Boxed ammo in the case.  If it has multiple locks get multiple locks.  Walmart carries small locks in multi packs keyed the same that work well.  Contact your carrier and get the required declaration paperwork required by them and TSA.  Fill it out and have it ready when you check in.  Your carrier will ask if you have anything you need to declare and you tell them you are flying with a gun cased and plan on checking it.  They will charge you checked baggage fee and direct you to TSA.  TSA will look inside, swab it for powder residue and check your paperwork.  At that point, you will put your locks on ALL entry tabs and hand the case to TSA, who will move it to the conveyor for checked baggage.  At this point, it will be considered checked baggage and it SHOULD follow you to your destination.  Not much to it IMHO.  HAVE FUN!  Enjoy the TRIP! 

Was thinking 2 locks was logical like some said and enough, but after hearing from some it sounds like if there's 4 holes, use 4 locks.  Thanks bbcoach, using a military surplus Pelican case cleaned up and foam custom cut for 20GA and the rest wide open on the inside. Will make sure to have 4 locks though

If there's a place for a lock put a lock on it. Doesn't matter if there's 1, 2, 3 ,4 or 10 spots put a lock on it. DO NOT USE TSA LOCKS! Those are junk use good pad locks. Bubba

Get you some of these locks. Just don't lose the keys.

https://www.masterlock.com/products/product/M40XD

DE OPPRESSO LIBER

https://www.walmart.com/ip/Master-Lock-Padlock-121Q-Covered-Solid-Body-3-4in-19mm-Wide-4-Pack/19870163  Here's a sample from Wally World.  You should get multiple keys with this set.  Spread the keys around, in case you do lose a set.  Have a set in your pocket, one set in a safe place in your checked baggage, one set in your carry on, leave a set at home and give your flying hunting buddy a set just in case.  This way you will be able to access your gun and ammo at your destination and when you return home.

Bbcoach said it right with multiple locks.

Seems like every airports does it a little different but I never had a problem.

I have flown with guns a few times. One thing I have found out is the rules change periodically. It pays to review the rules just prior to your trip to make sure you are compliant.
I recommend going on line to the TSA website and print out their rules. Then go to your airlines website and print out their rules as well. On a trip to Michigan a TSA agent tried to confiscate my gun because she said I hadn't followed TSA rules. I knew the rules, and followed them, but I didn't have them printed out. I had to point out to her that Orlando's TSA accepted my gun to fly out, and Detroit accepted my gun when I flew in, so it would make sense that Detroit would allow me to fly the gun home. She refused and continued saying she was going to confiscate my gun. After cursing her, and threatening to report her to TSA (she refused to call her supervisor), and threatening to call 911 and bring the police to the airport. She finally relented, saying "I'll let you get away with it this time." I had a few more choice cuss words for her. On the flight home I thought about how satisfying it would have been to have the rules printed out and tell her how she should learn to do her job.
Other than that, the guys have pretty much covered the key points. Good luck on your trip!!

Sent from deep in the woods where the critters roam.

You better have a tsa lock in every hole . If it has 2 holes , 2 locks . If it has 10 holes , 10 locks. If you don't . TSA will not check it in. I had one lock on a 2 hole case . They told me i needed 2. They said hold one we have a pile of them , you'll just have to cut it off yourself when you get there . I boarded the plane only to be kicked off the flight right before take off because it turns out the lock they put on it .... wouldn't lock. I missed my flight. I was very angry because I watched the guy put the second lock on it. I had to drive an hour home and catch a flight the next morning. They payed for it , but still what a crap shoot. Also my home airport on my return threw my pelican storm case so hard they physically broke the caster off the case. I'm sure some of you know how tough the storm case is ....you'd literally have to throw it off a skyscraper to physically rip the caster out of rotomolded plastic . Anyways .... my gun was perfectly fine , glad I happened to have a very nice case otherwise it would have been destroyed .

I know some above have said to use TSA locks on a firearms case - but don't - TSA even says not to - no one should have access to firearm but you- I've always gone with the case to  TSA for their inspection and if they want inside you hand them the key then they give it right back to you while you watch -
I've flown with firearms many many times - ammo  in  a separate checked luggage and each airport is different when it comes to collecting your firearm when you land - Like Dulles airport in Washingto  DC it is hand carried to the bagage managers office and your show your luggage stub and away you go - at DFW it comes out at the oversized luggage and sometimes no one is around to  check ID so I just get mine and go
I've never really had any problems even when checking in usually American Airlines

Agree. Use a good quality lock, but it definitely varies how TSA handles the inspection. At my home airport, they take the key and inspect the gun outside your view. Same experience in Albuquerque and Charlotte. I've never had TSA be aggravating though. The airline staff is another matter. Always have their particular airline policy in hand as many of the agents are not knowledgeable about their policy much less firearms. My buddy had an airline counter agent give him the business over his muzzleloader. She kept insisting he show her the breach to show it was unloaded. Fortunately another agent finally came up to educate her.

I agree about some people having problems with the agent when checking in - they just don't get firearms too often - depends on airport and the airlines
Don't be afraid to ask for a supervisor if the ticket counter agent doesn't seem to know what to do

It's easy and only takes 10-15 minutes normally from start to finish. Good Case (pelican), lock in every hole and go to the Baggage service desk upon final destination, (which is normally close to the baggage claim) for gun pick-up. Just remember to get locks that won't let the case lid open enough to get one finger tip inside the case.....I've heard of TSA not passing the gun case as checked baggage, because the lock shaft was too long and you could touch the inside of the case. Put some guitar stickers on the outside of the case in order to camo the firearm... the anti-gun people will smile as you're walking in to check it through.  :)

Never had any problems.  Gun should be in a lockable case.  I have transported ammo in other baggage with my clothes.

Quote from: tha bugman on February 09, 2021, 07:29:35 PM
Never had any problems.  Gun should be in a lockable case.  I have transported ammo in other baggage with my clothes.

you got lucky then because that's a no no

Quote from: dzsmith on February 09, 2021, 08:39:12 PM

Quote from: tha bugman on February 09, 2021, 07:29:35 PM
Never had any problems.  Gun should be in a lockable case.  I have transported ammo in other baggage with my clothes.

you got lucky then because that's a no no

I've never had a problem with my firearm in a locked gun case and the ammo in my locked checked baggage with my clothes etc
and I'm talking about too many times to remember

It's totally allowable to place your ammo in a piece of checked luggage other than your gun case. I always do that. I tell the airline agent when they ask if I have ammo. You can carry up to 5 kg of ammo. That's very easy to do if you're bringing some waterfowl shells. You would be hard pressed to get that kind of ammo volume in a gun case. You will also get less hassle from the airline agent as some of them don't think you can put it in the gun case. You can. TSA swabs your case for explosive residue, so that's one less factor removed by not putting it into a gun case.

TSA inspects your checked baggage and the ammo is seen. It's not a matter of being lucky. You can't carry the ammo on board the plane, but otherwise it is completely legitimate to pack it however you choose to do so as long as it goes under the plane. I first started flying with guns and ammo more than 30 years ago and do it several times a year.

You can even check a handgun in a locked case and place it into a piece of regular baggage as long as TSA checks it, you lock the gun case up and then put it in unlocked baggage.

It's not a difficult process unless the airline agent is not knowledgeable. TSA since its creation has never presented a problem for me and I too can't begin to count the times I've flown with guns and ammo.

for those saying don't use a TSA lock...here is why I would. I have been removed from a plane to come back and open a non TSA lock on luggage that was already checked. That shouldn't happen....but it does, and if you have a TSA lock, you wont have to make that trip and risk missing a flight. I do agree TSA locks are junk.... I didn't know you could carry ammo on checked luggage outside of your gun case. I asked at my local airport and that's where they told me to put it was in the gun case. But I see how that wouldn't make sense especially for a waterfowler or somebody carrying excessive amounts of ammo where as a turkey hunter typically wouldn't need that much.

Yep. Absolutely use a TSA approved lock on regular luggage if you lock it or you will get called back most likely by TSA. I haven't locked my regular luggage in years and haven't experienced any theft. However, I carry my binoculars, calls, GPS, range finder on board in a backpack. I especially wouldn't trust TSA with my binoculars out of sight as they might drop them. Baggage dudes can break an anvil, so I never would trust my calls with them in my luggage and certainly not my binocs. Anything of value short of your gun and ammo, carry it on. I usually carry on or wear my boots and one camo outfit in case the luggage is misplaced. A real biggie is to definitely have your license and tag with you and not in your luggage.

I absolutely DO NOT use a TSA lock and never will.  I want to be the only person that can open my luggage.  I have opened it once for them and had them ask for key once in lots of flights. I do not ever want them opening my case for any reason without my knowledge. 

FROM TSA:  Firearms must be unloaded and locked in a hard-sided container and transported as checked baggage only. As defined by 49 CFR 1540.5 a loaded firearm has a live round of ammunition, or any component thereof, in the chamber or cylinder or in a magazine inserted in the firearm. Only the passenger should retain the key or combination to the lock unless TSA personnel request the key to open the firearm container to ensure compliance with TSA regulations. You may use any brand or type of lock to secure your firearm case, including TSA-recognized locks.

I put that in bold, not them.  You cannot follow their rule (that I bolded) and use a TSA lock (althought they clearly say you can in the next sentence).  TSA master keys are supposedly able to be reproduced with a 3D printer.  While it would be unlikely you would be liable, I don't want someone monkeying around with my guns.  When my brother and I fly to Canada, there is 4 grand worth of guns in the case.  I want to know it my case has been opened.  I have my cell number on the outside of the case with my name as well for ID. 

trust me I understand your reasoning. I just don't want to be kicked off the flight, to go unlock luggage they already  looked at because it didn't have a TSA lock and they wanted back in it. It happened to me...and ive used a tsa lock every since. Grant it , all the times I used the lock before that was fine...until the one time something happened and they wanted it back open. I did not miss my flight....but it was dang close. And when you get removed from a flight, you have to go all the way back, and process the whole way back in.

There are a lot of inconsistencies in this thread regarding guns and ammo in the same case.

It is 100% authorized to store your ammunition in the same case as the weapon.  There is no reason to separate the two.

Additionally, you will NEVER have a problem with your ammunition if it is stored in the original box or if you put your handloads in an original box you saved.  Plastic cases are a toss up as to whether the agent thinks they're permissible. 


Some additional tips:

*Always place the gun in the case with the optic/sights facing upwards.  Gravity works on gun cases too, and your firearm will naturally want to migrate towards the bottom of the case as you pick it up/put it down.  You don't want the shock from the bottom of the case transferred immediately into your optic if it has moved down towards the bottom.

Personally, I always line the top and the bottom of my gun case with socks to make sure my gun and sights can never make contact with the perimeter of the case in the event my gun shifts during transport.   

*There is a lot of space in a gun case.  Use it wisely.  You can easily fit extra clothes, socks, shells, knives and general miscellaneous gear in them and you should. 

*Flying with a gun is not complicated but you want to make it as easy for the gate agents as possible.  I would advise against using any NON-TSA lock.  You're asking for trouble in terms of missing your flight. 

Good luck to anyone travelling this spring. 

Quote from: g8rvet on February 10, 2021, 05:24:09 PM
I absolutely DO NOT use a TSA lock and never will.  I want to be the only person that can open my luggage.  I have opened it once for them and had them ask for key once in lots of flights. I do not ever want them opening my case for any reason without my knowledge. 

FROM TSA:  Firearms must be unloaded and locked in a hard-sided container and transported as checked baggage only. As defined by 49 CFR 1540.5 a loaded firearm has a live round of ammunition, or any component thereof, in the chamber or cylinder or in a magazine inserted in the firearm. Only the passenger should retain the key or combination to the lock unless TSA personnel request the key to open the firearm container to ensure compliance with TSA regulations. You may use any brand or type of lock to secure your firearm case, including TSA-recognized locks.

I put that in bold, not them.  You cannot follow their rule (that I bolded) and use a TSA lock (althought they clearly say you can in the next sentence).  TSA master keys are supposedly able to be reproduced with a 3D printer.  While it would be unlikely you would be liable, I don't want someone monkeying around with my guns.  When my brother and I fly to Canada, there is 4 grand worth of guns in the case.  I want to know it my case has been opened.  I have my cell number on the outside of the case with my name as well for ID.

yes! use a TSA lock on your checked luggage - clothes, etc and the ammo but use you own Non-TSA lock on you firearms case
As in the above quote TSA wants only you to have access to the firearms -
I've always placed my ammo in my checked bag with my clothes but, TSA says it can be in firearm case but most airlines want it separated
Use the original factory boxes- even if you reload - some airlines personnel will give you a hard time with the plastic ammo boxes
every time I've flown - I've been right there when TSA inspects the firearm case and if they want to open it they will turn and ask you for  the key
The checked bag with the ammo in it is handled by the airlines sometimes the ticket agent wants to see the ammo sometimes they don't and I've never had it taken to TSA for inspection
I've lost track how many times I've traveled with firearms and I've never had a problem doing the above

My choice is non TSA lock because I would rather miss my flight than lose my gun.  Both are low likelihood, but I will err on missing flight.  I have never had anything other than the case is sent to TSA, I wait at check in for the okay.  Once I was asked to open it, once I was asked for keys.  Both times before I left the check in.  I have done this at both small and large airports and with the exception of Toronto, it was all handled smoothly. 

Just check with your airline and do what you are comfortable with.

4 pages in I assume this has been posted but if it hasn't, check out Dave's video.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WPfiJWPbnHQ

Bump to top

A lot of good information in this thread #1 DO NOT USE A TSA LOCK ON GUN CASES! Bubba

I do not use TSA lock. Last few times I flown they've either (CO) walked to the place TSA does the inspection. Once completed (they did ask for my key once) left for my Gate. Or (SD & FL) had me wait at luggage check till TSA did inspection. They came out said inspection done, left for gate.

I always put ammo plus other stuff in my gun case. You can put up to 50 lbs in there so take advantage. Plus I feel helps protect gun. Never had a Airline employee look in my gun case. They give me the Declaration (red) card to fill out I put it in gun case then that's it.

My question is in regards to the Pelican 1750 it appears to be over the size restrictions for most airlines of 62 inches. Has anyone ever ran into a problem with this? Or do they simply add a oversized up charge?

Quote from: Richard Cranium on January 19, 2022, 09:09:46 AM
My question is in regards to the Pelican 1750 it appears to be over the size restrictions for most airlines of 62 inches. Has anyone ever ran into a problem with this? Or do they simply add a oversized up charge?

https://www.pelican.com/us/en/product/cases/long-case/protector/1750 (https://www.pelican.com/us/en/product/cases/long-case/protector/1750)

Pelican website has specs of 50.5".

53.00 x 16.00 x 6.12 in  for the dimensions on the Pelican case but the most a standard checked bag can measure (length + width + height) on the outside is 62 inches.

So 75 inches total but no one has mentioned it being an issue.

Quote from: Richard Cranium on January 19, 2022, 08:10:14 PM
53.00 x 16.00 x 6.12 in  for the dimensions on the Pelican case but the most a standard checked bag can measure (length + width + height) on the outside is 62 inches.

So 75 inches total but no one has mentioned it being an issue.

This post started in 2021, there is another post about flying with your gun that was started this year, Jan. 2022 that has some more info in it. They charged us $70.00 each way for an oversized gun case last year. Linked below.

https://oldgobbler.com/Forum/index.php/topic,106053.msg1050959.html#msg1050959

I just bought a Plano 36 with plans on breaking down my gun to fit, but my SX4 20 gauge just did fit. I did not find a case that will come in under 62 inches long enough to fit the whole gun. Will the airlines care if it's over 62? I have no clue.


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Quote from: Gentry on January 19, 2022, 09:46:54 PM
I just bought a Plano 36 with plans on breaking down my gun to fit, but my SX4 20 gauge just did fit. I did not find a case that will come in under 62 inches long enough to fit the whole gun. Will the airlines care if it's over 62? I have no clue.


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That Plano 36 looks like a nice case and it's made in the USA. The only case I found when I was looking that was under the overall 62" oversized baggage restrictions was the Pelican 700 and you would have to break down the gun to fit in it too.

Quote from: lacire on January 20, 2022, 12:23:00 AM

Quote from: Gentry on January 19, 2022, 09:46:54 PM
I just bought a Plano 36 with plans on breaking down my gun to fit, but my SX4 20 gauge just did fit. I did not find a case that will come in under 62 inches long enough to fit the whole gun. Will the airlines care if it's over 62? I have no clue.


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That Plano 36 looks like a nice case and it's made in the USA. The only case I found when I was looking that was under the overall 62" oversized baggage restrictions was the Pelican 700 and you would have to break down the gun to fit in it too.

I think for the price of the Plano it's the best option. It also comes with keyed locks.


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