Guys, I'm curious and wanted some opinions.... Looks like I might be going to Florida next spring for my Osceola. The only option right now if flying Delta Airlines. I've never flew with a gun. I know it'll be checked in as luggage in hard pelican style case but I'm just worried. The gun I hunt with is my father's Beretta 686 onyx over and under. I lost my dad in 2011 to cancer so gun means a lot to me. Just worried about theft, it not making it, etc. What's been your experiences flying with hunting guns? Am I worrying over nothing????
If your worried ship it to a FFL close to your destination and pick it up when u get there.
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I don't know anyone that has lost a gun .... but it is possible. Why not use another gun just to be safe? A lot of outfitters will loan or rent a shotgun because some people don't want to go thru the hassle at the airport.
I just flew to Nebraska on Delta last week with 2 guns....believe it or not the TSA seems to have lightened up some on the gun transport. After you show them to the attendant at the ticket counter you lock it up and the TSA folks swab it for explosives and put a giant zip tie on it so that it cannot be removed until you get it back in your possession.
As far as theft...I don't think that Delta wants the ATF breathing down their throats so I would not worry about that at all.
Best of luck on your hunt!!
You're worried about nothing. Obviously there's always a slim possibility something will go wrong, but you're far more likely to have it stolen from your home or even your vehicle while going to the airport. I've flown with a gun over 100 times, and it's no big deal.
I have flown on Delta numerous times with guns. It was a breeze. :icon_thumright:
I fly all the time with shotguns. Delta is fine, nothing to worry about especially if you are flying direct.
If you are real concerned, call the outfitter - he likely has a pile of shotguns and will let you use one with no problem.
TSA is pretty easy for all the Fla / GA airports. Just get to the airport a few hours early.
A couple of small things that have added to my peace of mind while flying with guns:
I have a set of 4 same-keyed locks and two keys. One key is on its own key chain for handing over to TSA if they request it. They are not supposed to, but they do, and I don't argue. On about 1/3 of my flights with guns, all on Southwest, I've been asked to hand over the key. Two locks go on the case and the other two are held in reserve in the unlikely event the TSA decides to cut the locks.
My cell phone number is on my ID tag on the gun case. I've been called after being all the way to the gate and told they want to open the case and need the key. Not sure what they would have done if they didn't reach me.
Having TSA pre-check is great in the event you get called back through security to open your case.
Be sure to research the airline specific rules on packing your shells. Southwest allows you to include them locked in the case with the gun, which is my preference. Some airlines do not.
Based on my experiences, I feel more confident flying my guns with me than shipping them. In every instance that I have flown with them, my guns have been hand delivered to me at the baggage claim. Be prepared to wait. They are usually the last things out.
Same as everyone else. I've flown plenty of times and never had a problem. Plus you can put your own locks on it too. You'll have to go to the check in counter to fill out the paperwork and show them the gun and after that lock it up and it goes. The one thing I try to do is fly direct. Bubba
That too always have extra locks. I've used the TSA locks before and they always loose them. They won't let you fly without locks. My buddies have always used non TSA pad locks and never had a problem. I've started using them too. Bubba
I've had more hassle flying without guns then with for some reason. I use a hard sided cast with TSA locks. They never ask for keys. Make sure your shells are in a factory box or a hard sided plastic box. No loose shells. I also include a cleaning rod in my case. I buy oil once at destination. I have a big notice on taped to the outside of the case with my cell number, name and address on it. Only time I was questioned was entering Canada. They wanted to know why my shells were in a plastic box instead of a cardboard one. Supervisor came up and said it was okay they were better packaged than in factory boxes and wished me a successful trip.
I never had a prob
The question of using TSA locks bears some looking in to. My understanding of the law is that they should not be used for gun cases.
As stated in the TSA regs (49 CFR 1540.111), only the passenger is supposed to have the key or combination. The TSA locks violate that.
The only other thing I would recommend is to make sure the service counter people and TSA are on the same page about things when you are checking your guns in. Sometimes the "left foot" doesn't know what the "right foot" is doing.
I had my entire flight schedule screwed up one time by TSA wanting to get into my gun case after I had gone to the gate. The service counter folks had checked everything in and said I was good to go. I was about to board the plane when TSA called the gate and said they had to get in the gun case. Needless to say, I missed the flight.
Since then, I never leave for the gate until I am absolutely certain that all the unlocking and locking and inspections are all completed. Anymore, I always ask the service counter folks to get a confirmation from the TSA folks that everything is good to go before I leave the check-in area. They have always been very cooperative about doing so.
Easy as pie...I was concerned the first time but that's normal. Once you do it the first time you realize there's nothing to worry about.
Quote from: Rapscallion Vermilion on May 24, 2017, 12:36:39 PM
The question of using TSA locks bears some looking in to. My understanding of the law is that they should not be used for gun cases.
As stated in the TSA regs (49 CFR 1540.111), only the passenger is supposed to have the key or combination. The TSA locks violate that.
I just got back from Kanasa and when I checked in at both airports I stated to TSA that I had TSA compliant locks. They just said okay and waved me on. The regs state the passenger must have the only key. I do carry the only key to the luggage in regard to aircraft passengers and air crew. I beleive this is the intent of the reg.
Locks are only a temporary deterant anyway.
Good info here. Live in NY but going to New Orleans ,LA in a few months . My Utah non resident CCW permit covers LA so I plan on taking something out of the safe with me. I'm still a little nervous about checking it in and it getting 'lost" but you guys have established some relief. It's not a direct flight so that's a little concerning
Very easy and I wouldn't be worried at all.
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Thanks guys. Y'all have put my mind at ease.
Your cell number on the case is a must-Pelican will sell you a custom made label or you can order them on Ebay. they slip right in to the case and you can't remove them unless the case is opened. As Raps said, only you should have the keys to the lock. TSA locks allow anyone with a TSA to open the case and that is not what the law says. they may let you fly, but it is not correct. I only want it opened in my presence.
One thing I would add, is the Pelican has two lock holes that are reinforced with metal, but the center two are not. TSA had a memo last year to put emphasis on being unable to even slip a hand into a gun case and they tried to on mine by opening the center latches-they could not, but could open it a fraction. Put keyed alike locks on all 4 holes to be sure.
If you are flying to Canada and have any other possible option, DO NOT fly through Toronto. What a nightmare. We never will again. Terrible.
Quote from: turkeyfeathers on May 24, 2017, 07:28:23 PM
Y but going to New Orleans ,LA in a few months .
Better bring 2 if your heading to N.O.
As far as locks go, go to Wally world and buy their small 3 or 4 pack locks all keyed the same. When you get to the airport and check the firearm with TSA put a lock in each hole on the case. Put a key on your key ring and one in your carry on and or wallet, just in case you lose one or one gets misplaced (always have a spare key tucked somewhere). Put a card inside the case with your Name, address and cell phone number and one on the outside as well. Flying with checked firearms is safe, secure and easy.
I've only flown a couple of times with firearms, but never had a problem. Was nervous as all get out the first time as I'm sure you are, but it was no biggie in the end.
I wouldn't exactly say there's nothing to worry about. Luggage, including guns, is lost all too frequently by airlines. Odds are you'll receive it eventually but it could pose a significant inconvenience. Had it happen to me on an international flight. Fly frequently enough and it will happen to you too..
Have done it without a hitch. However, I just returned from a trip on Delta. Had my gun in a hard Pelican case with two locks for the reinforced holes. The Delta supervisor refused to put the gun on the plane. She said "four holes on the case, have to have four locks. TSA rules. If you don't like it , call them." I asked about zip ties for the the two non-reinforced holes and she refused. Ended up taking it back to the truck and leaving it there while I was gone. I'm sure she felt empowered. My only advice is to make sure you check the most recent TSA regs and follow them, maybe have a printed copy with you in case you run into a power crazed agent. Otherwise I don't think you'll have a problem. Good luck!!
I ship mine to my destination through UPS. You can ship a shotgun or rifle as long as the label has your name on it. Ship it from yourself to yourself... it can have another name on it but it needs to be Attention to that persons name. My outfitters always have it when I arrive, unopened and ready for me.
Flown several tkmes with others. Get for locks that are keyed the same. Lock the case with 2 locks and leave the other 2 locks unlocked inside the case with a letter telling TSA to use those locks to lock the gun case in the event they have to cut your locks.
Always have extra locks and extra keys. Last time I flew with the TSA locks they lost 2 and flying home wouldn't take it without locks. Don't ask me how but they had locks in the airport. :P I gave her 20 bucks and she returns with 2 locks, change and a receipt. :P Now I only use my own locks but always carry extra just in case something happens to them. Another thing is always check them into the counter never with the baggage guy's. I did that one time we did everything the counter does I opened and filled out the card and locked them up but had to go back to the TSA and open again. I've never had any problems but give yourself plenty of time to check in, I usually try to be there 2 hours before the flight. Bubba
I usually fly Southwest. Never had a problem. Always declared the firearm at the counter, fill out a card, put it in the case, lock it, and done. I have an SKB case and the locks are part of the case itself. Never been asked for a key or notified to come and open the case.
A couple of times the case was put on the baggage claim belt instead of going to the oversized/secure baggage pick up area. I try to be at the baggage claim belt before it starts moving...
Quote from: WW on May 25, 2017, 10:07:48 PM
I ship mine to my destination through UPS. You can ship a shotgun or rifle as long as the label has your name on it. Ship it from yourself to yourself... it can have another name on it but it needs to be Attention to that persons name. My outfitters always have it when I arrive, unopened and ready for me.
I too have shipped my guns through UPS or Fed X. Made a box out of plywood and reinforced to fit my case snugly. Has several trips under its belt but only a few scratches on the outside. Be advisable to check with outfitter first tho. There,'s always the odd one or two tha does not want guns shipped to them. Overall I would not overthink shipping guns within the US as its pretty straight forward. Shipping outside can be a different story, especially Europe or South America but most outfitters will walk you through it. If not find another outfitter.
Quote from: Rapscallion Vermilion on May 24, 2017, 12:36:39 PM
The question of using TSA locks bears some looking in to. My understanding of the law is that they should not be used for gun cases.
As stated in the TSA regs (49 CFR 1540.111), only the passenger is supposed to have the key or combination. The TSA locks violate that.
Not true. A buddy of mine just inquired about this and this is the exact response "verbatim" from the TSA:
"
Thank you for contacting the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Contact Center regarding travel with firearms using TSA-recognized locks.
On flights that originate in the United States, passengers may transport a firearm in accordance with 49 CFR §1540.111 under the following conditions:
The firearm must be:
• Unloaded;
• Declared to the airline;
• In checked baggage, not carry-on;
• In a locked, hard-sided container.
Travelers may use any kind or type of lock for securing firearm cases, including
TSA-recognized locks. However, TSA does not recommend or endorse any specific brand or type of lock to use on firearm containers.
For clarification, 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. Please be sure that all firearms are unloaded and properly packaged, prior to arriving at the airport.
We encourage passengers to familiarize themselves with TSA Travel Tips at www.tsa.gov\travel\travel-tips. The Web site has information about prohibited and permitted items, the screening process and procedures, and guidance for special considerations that may assist them in preparing for air travel. Passengers may also search the Web site's database of prohibited and permitted items using the "When I fly can I bring my... feature on the homepage of www.tsa.gov.
We hope this information is helpful.
TSA Contact Center"
Another thing I would do is print out all info concerning flying with firearms and ammo and place a copy in the case with the weapon, and have a copy on myself. This will help with the incidents where individual airline agents want to create their own rules on how and what they want packed, as well as any TSA agent and their "interpretation" of the law.
I always break mine apart and put it in a soft gun case in between layers of clothes. I buy a 3 ft x 2ft plastic container from Walmart and it's usually good for about 2 trips. Holds around 90 lbs per trip so I cant complain.
Quote from: Andy S. on May 26, 2017, 01:39:03 PM
Quote from: Rapscallion Vermilion on May 24, 2017, 12:36:39 PM
The question of using TSA locks bears some looking in to. My understanding of the law is that they should not be used for gun cases.
As stated in the TSA regs (49 CFR 1540.111), only the passenger is supposed to have the key or combination. The TSA locks violate that.
Not true. A buddy of mine just inquired about this and this is the exact response "verbatim" from the TSA:
"Thank you for contacting the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Contact Center regarding travel with firearms using TSA-recognized locks.
On flights that originate in the United States, passengers may transport a firearm in accordance with 49 CFR §1540.111 under the following conditions:
The firearm must be:
• Unloaded;
• Declared to the airline;
• In checked baggage, not carry-on;
• In a locked, hard-sided container.
Travelers may use any kind or type of lock for securing firearm cases, including
TSA-recognized locks. However, TSA does not recommend or endorse any specific brand or type of lock to use on firearm containers.
For clarification, 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. Please be sure that all firearms are unloaded and properly packaged, prior to arriving at the airport.
We encourage passengers to familiarize themselves with TSA Travel Tips at www.tsa.gov\travel\travel-tips. The Web site has information about prohibited and permitted items, the screening process and procedures, and guidance for special considerations that may assist them in preparing for air travel. Passengers may also search the Web site's database of prohibited and permitted items using the "When I fly can I bring my... feature on the homepage of www.tsa.gov.
We hope this information is helpful.
TSA Contact Center"
Another thing I would do is print out all info concerning flying with firearms and ammo and place a copy in the case with the weapon, and have a copy on myself. This will help with the incidents where individual airline agents want to create their own rules on how and what they want packed, as well as any TSA agent and their "interpretation" of the law.
It's certainly true that TSA will let you fly with TSA locks on your gun case. However, it is also well known now that all eight of the TSA master keys have been hacked and you can buy them online or print them out on your 3D printer. I think the regulation I cited is pretty clear with regard to the passenger being the only person with a key to the locks, but I have no problem with others arriving at their own interpretation.
Nice post "Andy S". Whenever this comes up on this forum or almost all others my first recommendation is to go to the airlines web site and bring up the CONTRACT OF CARRIAGE read that then read their specific instructions for flying with a firearm. The info will be there and will answer all your questions. Not a big deal and on airlines such as Southwest a simple process that is outlined step by step in their printed instructions.. Agree that it is always best to have a direct flight for any checked luggage firearm or not. No reason to make this a hard thing. It isn't.
Also in the USA you can mail it to yourself with USPS. Send it to whoever (friend,outfitter, or relative) and at the bottom Att: Your name. They are not allowed to ask what is inside. I also will second the tip about if going to Canada do not go through Toronto. Border crossing there will 100% make sure you miss your flight and USA agents coming back will hassle you. One friend with me was pulled in and was told to prove ownership. I went through coming back easy. They had several firearms they were holding back. The other friend didn't get his guns or his luggage till 2 days after he was home. Delivered by the airport to his home. Was told to sign for them. He told the driver wasn't signing till inspected. He said he didn't care what they looked liked and drove off without signature.
Flew Delta out of Detroit Metro to Tampa in mid March to go tag my first Osceola. I'm Canadian and had to drive an hour and a half to get to the border then clear customs. Went pretty smoothly until I had three loose shells in the gun case beside the shotgun. TSA took exception to that.....not sure what the reason. 10 more shells in a little cardboard box as well and that was ok. Agreed to let them seize the 3 shells and it was all good. Just make sure any shells you take are in the original factory packaging. Wouldn't hesitate to fly with a firearm again and I will admit I was a little uncomfortable with the process until it was over with.
Willy
The longer this thread goes the more mis-information and confusion that is posted. Typical for a flying with firearms thread on any forum. Two posters on here, if caught and convicted, won't again need to worry about flying with a firearm, they'll have a felony conviction so their gun days will be over. Again - read the CONTRACT OF CARRIAGE and the specific line by line instructions for flying with a firearm that your chosen airlines will have on their web site. If you want to spend (waste) some money then try the shipping to yourself or shipping to a third party outfitter. Will probably work but no reason to do it. I always fly S/W Air and my standard size hard sided and locked (two non TSA locks) gun case containing my 870 is one of my two FREE checked bags. All my hunting gear and clothes will fit into my second FREE checked bag. Couldn't be easier unless you get in a big hurry and forget a step such as having three loose shells banging around inside a gun case or suitcase where the primers could be impacted in transit.
BTW- that "ammo must be in original packaging" is usually false on most air carriers. Ammunition must be in a container suitable for transporting ammunition is normally how it will read. That can be carrier specific as will the amount allowed.
Au Contraire. The problem isn't with the airlines, it's with TSA. I was flying out of Philadelphia to St. Louis, used a non TSA lock. TSA called SW to tell me they needed the key. I politely said I would go back and unlock the case. TSA lady came out, who probably didn't know one end from the other. She said she needed the key, I explained that I was the only one to have the key. She promptly said;"fine, I'll bring your case out, and it won't be loaded on the plane." I chose not to ask for any trouble, and gave her the key. Arrived, and the TSA inspection card was inside the case. Flying back, I chose not to be hasseled, and used TSA locks. They never opened it, go figure.
Quote from: dejake on May 28, 2017, 07:11:10 PM
She promptly said;"fine, I'll bring your case out, and it won't be loaded on the plane." I chose not to ask for any trouble, and gave her the key.
A small person with a little bit of power. Some of them are decent, but most are a holes.
I would just drive. Why take a chance with a gun with so much sentimental value?
I fly with guns every year and out of probably one of the toughest airports which is JFK in NY. Never had anyone ever ask for a "TSA" lock..They might write down the make,model,serial number and caliber depends on who shows up to check your gun. Never had them ask if ammo was in "original" packaging just make sure its NOT in the case with the gun or it will be promptly confiscated.The ammo must be in your checked luggage. They will ask you to open the case so they can inspect the gun to make sure that the action is open and isnt loaded..No loaded mags!..Once the gun is deemed safe they will give you a little tag which you sign and put in the case with the gun then you will lock the case in front of them..again any lock is ok,,and will escort you over to a conveyer belt that will xray scan it and send it off with the rest of your luggage. Of course this takes time so give yourself plenty and I mean plenty of extra time for check in , security, etc. A trick i found out about this year is you can ask for a priority check in when you have guns instead of waiting on a long line. Of course I've also found that a positive friendly attitude goes along way to speeding this process along.
I also would NOT go by what the airlines has on their website regarding firearm travel as I have found this information to sometimes be inaccurate as airlines constantly change policies but not always update the site.
As far as shipping your gun ahead of time you certainly can do that but it will cost you twice as much as taking it on the plane, shipping,transfer charge,insurance, etc..and as someone in the business I've seen more guns get destroyed or go missing having them shipped via UPS or USPS than flying..
Ammunition CAN be in the case.
I once went by what the airlines had on their website about ammo being in the case and even went so far as to print it out and take it with me..Once they saw that ammo in the case they took it...All my Federal turkey loads for my trip went bye bye..I've never traveled with ammo in the case again even though it was plainly stated in the policy it was ok to do so..why take a chance??
As stated check the regs, TSA and airline. This topic is really getting old and time to put to rest.
TSA is just like any government entity... inconsistent. Yes, certain airports /airlines can be more difficult and I imagine NYC and Chicago being the worse. I always travel with 2 boxes of Federal HW in my gun case.. never had an issue.
I have never used TSA locks. MY gun case has 2 locks built in.. plus I add another 2 of my own keyed master locks.
Just leave yourself extra time and all is good!
Quote from: dejake on May 30, 2017, 11:42:35 AM
Ammunition CAN be in the case.
Yes it can. "LI Outdoorsman" you got hosed. Someone, either the airlines or the TSA, owes you for that ammo. These printed rules aren't "suggestions" and unless TSA considered that ammo improperly packaged (probably be their excuse) had no reason to seize it. To many just let things slide. I'd still be screaming.
Agree we are beating the dead horse on this topic and by now anyone that has never flown with their turkey gun is probably reluctant to do so. Too bad - it is a simple, straightforward process.
I will be flying SWA this fall from RSW (Ft. Myers) or TPA (Tampa) to CMH for Ohio's fall turkey or deer seasons. My 870 will be packed in an approved case secured with two non TSA locks. Ten rounds of turkey loads will be firmly packed in the case in a container designed to carry ammo. I'll make sure the regs haven't changed before departure. If they have not I'll bet I have no trouble and my 870 and ammo will arrive without a problem.
BTW - would you want your ammo in its soft cardboard "original packaging" riding in the belly of an aircraft contained in your checked soft bag squished among two hundred other bags or firmly secured in your hard gun case? Easy answer. I'm done.
Continental left ours in Houston last week. We left ICt without them at 10:30 am with the promise that a carrier would bring them 3.5 hrs to our hotel when the arrived on the next flight at 2:30 pm. Flydown is 5:45 out there, the guns arrived at 4:30 am.
Going to bump this up one more time since I received a notification from the NRA that they now recommend not flying with a gun if boarding in either New York or New Jersey. Appears at first look this is more of a handgun problem but be aware. Lots of scary stuff in the entire e mail and related stories. The :deadhorse: revives.
I have flown many times with firearms with out any trouble. I would call the airline and check regs, you shouldn't have any problems.
Quote from: joey46 on August 12, 2017, 01:46:36 PM
Going to bump this up one more time since I received a notification from the NRA that they now recommend not flying with a gun if boarding in either New York or New Jersey. Appears at first look this is more of a handgun problem but be aware. Lots of scary stuff in the entire e mail and related stories. The :deadhorse: revives.
It's the job of the NRA to scare you, it's how they increase membership. I imagine they have to try a little harder since Obama left office... Obama was the best thing that ever happened to the NRA.. and all gun manufactures for that matter. NY and NJ have always been spotty in regards to flying with guns..
Either way, NRA is good, happy to be a member.
I've always shipped mine to the outfitter but I will check mine and fly with it for my next hunting trip. Exactly what is the process? I haven't looked into it, other than having a couple of locks on a hard case.
https://www.google.com/amp/freebeacon.com/issues/john-stossel-interviews-gun-owners-arrested-traveling-new-york/amp/
Here's a link I've been seeing the past week. Take from it what you will but a quick google search will give you plenty of reading.
I have flown plenty of times and some good advice here. Use a very good hard case, some good locks, check them at the counter. Always fly Ammo in the original package. Bubba
I fly with a gun(s) round trip about 20 times a year. I have been doing this for about 15 years. Buy a Pelican storm case and you will have no problem.
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Delta is one o the best .. just make sure your case is TSA approved and ammo is in factory box and u will slide through
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I've only done it once in 2010 flying to TX, no problems at all. Just follow the TSA guidelines to the letter and you'll be fine.
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