Ok as a person that worked for TSA as a supervisor for years in the checked baggage area, obviously not a brag in any sense just saying where I'm getting my information from. PLEASE DO NOT USE TSA LOCKS FOR GUN CASES. TSA should not have access to your guns without you there if they have to inspect specifically the gun case. Not illegal to use TSA locks as I saw in the comments just not the best idea imo.
Agree!! Suggest using something like a set of Schlage KS23D2300 padlocks on long gun cases. Can be keyed alike, are hard to pick, and hard to cut with bolt cutters. Place your ammunition boxes in a separate locked container, and they rarely look in it. Use a chamber flag in every weapon. Proves it’s unloaded in the Xray. Use Air Tags or similar in each ammunition and weapon case, as well as the suitcase for handguns. Cable all small cases to the suitcase frame.
100% Thanks for pointing this out. I have had TSA specifically tell me, "Absolutely no one but you is to have access to this locked case, including us." Which means, do not use TSA locks.; if they need access, they will call you, if they have questions, they will call you, if they need you for anything, they will want and need you present. Now, caveat is, maybe the law changed recently, so do your own research and investigation.
I’m sorry - DO NOT DO NOT DO NOT USE TSA LOCKS. If they want to open the case, it should be done in YOUR presence. This also prevents the TSA from tampering with your firearm after it’s checked. If you use a TSA lock, kiss your firearm goodbye.
Have you actually checked a firearm using non-TSA approved locks? Did they leave it alone and not cut off your locks? I would rather not use the TSA locks. I don’t want them going through my case.
@@2A_Patriot interesting. I wonder if YT is screwing up or if this channel is deleting comments they don't like. Don't see my reply to you anymore. It said there's such bad information in this video that it makes me wonder about the accuracy of information in their other videos. Gell-Mann amnesia effect.
Former LEO instructor. For handguns, use a non-tsa lock on the case. Cable lock the case to the inside of the bag, and use tsa locks on the outside of the bag. Slide locked to the rear so that it can be verified unloaded on xray.
Flew into Atlanta one time, they put a "do not place on carousel" tag on my checked case with my gun, but naturally they put it on the carousel anyway. So I would suggest it's always good to check the carousel first even if it shouldn't be there, just to make sure no one walks off with it. I got lucky no one decided to steal mine with the very obvious "this shouldn't be here" tag on it.
@@Astronomy_Live in contrast to your experience, I have flown between Nashville and RSW Fort Myers, Florida several times and every time I have arrived at RSW and sort of standing around the carousel, wondering when my bag was going to show up, two guys in black suits came over and taped me on the shoulder and addressed me by name and said we have your bag right here. That’s the way it should be handled.
@@bobisonline I've always had a positive experience with RSW. Orlando also handled my checked gun properly. Atlanta acted like I was an idiot for expecting them to keep my bag off the carousel even though it was visibly marked as such.
It depends on the airport, and possibly the airline. I've flown in and out of a couple of dozen airports. The majority of the time they come out on the carousel.
@Astronomy_Live Going out of Atlanta, the luggage goes through oversized luggage. If they see a regular sized suitcase they're going to guess that there's a gun in it. But how are they going to know when it gets there? They can't mark the outside of the bag to show that it's a firearm. So how would the baggage handlers know?
I wonder how that works when it is sitting on the luggage carousel going round and round? Do you sit there and watch it until the airline takes possession of it again?
@@latigomorgan at least with American which is the airline I have the most experience with using when traveling with firearms… the bag should go to the baggage service office BSO. I have had it show up on the carousel (rarely). Recently was one instance. When I saw that I pointed it out to the BSO staff. They were actually embarrassed and said it should never happen. This may just be with some airlines. 🤷
@@troublets3060 Delta marks bags carrying firearms as “special handling” so they end up in the baggage claim office. That to me is marking the exterior of the luggage which is contrary to TSA guidelines. They of course get away with it because the tag doesn’t specifically say “firearm”. But still. Bad form Delta. Every other airline I fly on follows TSA guidelines accurately.
DO NOT USE TSA LOCKS ON FIREARMS. When the TSA screws up, and they will you are liable. Secure your firearms' so nobody can get in without you present with the keys. When you check the firearm you wait until the TSA approves your luggage incase they need you to open it. The TSA has no qualifications to handle ANY firearms. I am speaking from experience.
Then what they do is call you to the carrier's desk. They tie you up there with endless stupidity and confusion while TSA cuts your locks and then tells you that it can't go on the plane because the box isn't secure enough. Or, replaces your locks with zip ties without saying anything and you discover it at your destination. My favorite, they call the air port police and they try to seize the weapon because TSA removed the tags so they don't know who it belongs to so it's apparently no one's property. So many ways to screw that up. I literally only fly charter now because It's too much hassle.
The TSA has an exception for firearms. All other luggage should have TSA approved locks, but locks on firearms should not be TSA approved because they don't want their own employees stealing your firearms. TSA locks are the lowest level of security. Anyone with a TSA master key can open any of them. Get to the airport early and allow plenty of time for TSA to check your firearms in your presence and never hand over your keys.
@@PetrolJunkie Never had an issue. Different airports have different procedures. Some have me take it to a TSA Drop point. They scan the case and say good to go or ask to open. Some have me wait 10 minutes for it to get through. If they need me to open it then I am close by. After 10 minutes I make eye contact with the counter person and they let me know if Im good or not.
@@lukenick2299 while I agree with you I can see where there is some confusion. Taken right from the TSA page “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.” Now the key point is “only the passenger should retain the key or combination”. So how can it be in compliance if it can be opened by a TSA key? But then it also says “You may use any brand or type of lock to secure your firearm case, including TSA-recognized locks.” Now I have seen on some airlines where nothing was said when someone used TSA locks. I would never use such a lock for a firearm so it really caught me off guard. I have also seen TSA locks sold near the gun safes at Bass Pro/Cabellas.
that was some really good and important information, I always wondered about something like that happening and what would I do? But, now I know thanks to them.
Some poor schmuck got hooked up on this very situation a couple of years ago flying from New Hampshire to Georgia and was diverted to New Jersey (or some such flight) He tried not to take possession, but they bullied him into it, and sure enough the cops were waiting for him.
Yes. Its not a bad idea to toss a change of clothes and toiletries in another bag or your carry-on in case you get stuck somewhere. you can take what you need and not accept the bag with the lock box.
What about hand loaded ammunition? I've been doing that for 30 years and I hardly ever shoot factory ammo. Do I have to leave the components in their factory packaging and load them once I reach my destination?
ACTCHUALLY… the TSA guidance says and the “Firearms Declaration” you sign typically says “with the only key/combination in my possession”. So that would disqualify TSA locks.
I’ve had many different experiences and requirements at the counter. Ranging from “sign this OK you’re good“ to “Open it please. That ammo needs to be in the original packaging. No not just any sealed container. Let me get my manager” to “ Sign this. Now walk to the other end of the terminal and sign another thing.” I’ve had different policies applied at the same airport on the same trip.
@@lo-fidevil2950 I flew Southwest from St Louis to Phoenix where the ticket agent asked the required questions, sign this, place it on the safe and “have a great trip. On the return the ticket agent had me and my luggage escorted to TSA where they MADE ME OPEN THE SAFE and inspected my firearm. I was then escorted back to the ticket counter to continue to check my bag. Ridiculous.
Former airline employee here. Some airlines use a barcode system for tracking. Every bag has to be scanned onto the plane, off the plane, and onto the carousel. That system will alert to a firearm contained without them placing an obvious sticker notice on the outside.
This was my thought use one of the few codes on the luggage tags and if it's on the computer it's not flagged anywhere else expect on the other ends computer when the plane lands *in theory* anyways providing actual security from an organization not often known for that (TSA does a good job but they also goof it just as much )
I have a bunch of the Samsung tracker tags. Strongly recommend keeping one of those tags in each piece of checked luggage. (Apple has their version of it for members of the iCult) And an extra one in your gun case. But DO NOT label the tag "Gun Box." "Luggage 1," "Luggage 2," etc. is fine. A guy I know had a tag in his gun case, tracked it to his destination, and was able to show the location to airport staff when they "lost" his bag. It magically appeared after a few minutes.
The part about dealing with gun-unfriendly states really hit home for me - definitely something every 2A supporter should keep in mind when planning trips.
Isn’t it pathetic (and Anti Constitutional ) that we cannot go anywhere in the United States without fear of being arrested. We need all state reciprocity!
That’s what Constitutional carry really is. The federal government needs to require state governments to prove that restrictions do not exceed the historical tradition of firearm regulation.
It seems the same political minds that tells us to back off otherwise law abiding individuals who disregard our immigration laws, will not give the same deference to otherwise law abiding citizens who disregard their gun laws.
@@hubriswonk I'm a disabled veteran that patriotically and proudly served my country! It took over 15 years to get all my benefits because of the insane laws against us through the Department of Veterans Affairs! Furthermore, this isn't the same country that I served for over 12 years before being medically retired!
So, actual security vs the illusion of security. If you have a lock that the TSA has a universal key for, then that means that the lock itself is VERY easily picked or that key obtained. So, while the entire TSA is the "idea" of security without actually delievering any, this just further demonstrates it.
This is right off the TSA website. 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. They are not allowed by their own regulation to open the case without you there!
Very helpful. Thanks. I’ve flown with mine twice now, and with all the online assistance and reading my airline’s and TSA’s policies, it turned out to be very straightforward.
I flew with my handgun 2 weeks ago. With the mags loaded but in Mag holsters, and the gun empty. The website says a lock that only you can access. It specifies not to use a TSA lock. If they need to access your case, it is to be done under your supervision. It's still your weapon, and nobody should be able to access it without you. You have to dig around in the TSA websites to get all the answers. They don't make it easy to find but the info is there.
Not to contradict the information provided, but I have asked the TSA agents in every airport I’ve flown to or from what type of locks to use, and without exception they have stated to use non-TSA locks on pistol lock boxes inside the luggage and on the exterior of rifle cases. On luggage it is HIGHLY recommended to use the TSA locks. Every airport has its own inspection procedures, so be prepared to be flexible.
I was told it was illegal to use TSA locks. You are supposed to have the only key to that gun case, according to TSA!! Edit: I'll be bringing TSA locks with as someone suggested. If I have to put them on to get where I'm going, I have to.
They say one thing and do another. Even when you print off the rules from the TSA website and airline website. I think it devolves to whoever is the supervisor that particular shift.
I wish the someone from the channel would respond to this. I get they need to avoid offering legal advice, but some clarity of they can find better than we can would be nice.
My understanding is to use a non-TSA lock. TSA is only supposed to inspect the bag in your presence. Every time I have travelled with my gun, I either have to take my luggage to a TSA officer who inspects it in my presence, or the airline agent puts the bag on the conveyor belt and tells me to hang around for about 15 minutes. TSA will call me if the bags need to be inspected.
On two occasions I air-traveled with rounds in magazines in the locked handgun box. The inspectors told me that was fine, as long as the rounds aren't loose. Also, in Orlando, I had to go to a special area, called "additional services" to check my bag. It probably added half an hour to check-in, even though it went smoothly.
OIA, MCO ✈️ can vary. GOAA. Orlando, TSA had some scandals, Puerto Rico 🇵🇷 gun smuggler rings. I fly out of MCO often. I use a older blue S&W plastic case.
@@Zzooomm Depends how you read the regulation. By the letter, the ammunition must be "completely enclosed." I don't have a single firearm magazine (and I have quite a few) that COMPLETELY encloses every single round, because no magazine that anybody would be terribly familiar with does. Glock, AR, CZ P10, P365, Ruger MkIV, you name it. The last round in is always partially exposed because it has to be for feeding. So, technically, those magazines would be no bueno unless they had a cover over the top. With that said, I have never had an issue with just storing the ammo I bring in the magazines I bring. Done it half a dozen times or so. The spirit of the law is that they don't want loose ammo clanking around during the flight. In that sense, magazines comply with the spirit of the rule, just perhaps not the letter.
How difficult is "... shall not be infringed"? It's rather simple to me, and simple trumps all other modus operandi. It's like your right to breath air, until you make victims out of innocent people; then you forfeit that right to breathe.
@@troy3456789 I agree, but the law should reflect that right and Congress should pass a law making people free to cross state lines. That is what I meant, Leave Texas and wind up in NY or CA no problem
@@Zzooomm That’s a RUclips vid you can search for. Why? When people get alerts that an unknown AirTag is with them, they can make it beep to find it. You don’t want them to find it.
I fly quite often w/ one or two of my handguns. I agree that Southwest seems to be the most lenient and therefore the best to fly with. I follow the TSA laws, but keep my ammunition in the magazines (with a speedloader used as a cap) but keep the magazines outside of the firearm. Per TSA and Southwest rules that is legal since the firearm is still unloaded and the magazine counts as a container made for ammunition.
I think you missed a couple of things here that would be helpful to others. But first, I have only flown Southwest and with a handgun secured in a locked box within my luggage. I found the process very easy and fast. In fact, I would say that I passed through check in faster than those waiting on line because I went directly up to the service counter each time. Just let a service person know that you need to do a “Declaration” they will know what that is and point you in the right direction. One correction to what you stated on ammo is that Southwest does not require it to be in the original box. That is one of the options. It must be securely placed in a box and they mention metal, cardboard and wood but not plastic. I travel with plastic ammo cases as they are more secure than the cardboard cases. TSA allows plastic and the rules vary. For example, TSA states you “May” carry the ammo in the same secured case but Southwest states that you must. The biggest tip I can give is to read AND PRINT the requirements for both the TSA and the airline that you are flying and have them with your other documents. That way, if an agent has a lapse in memory you can help refresh it for them. I have seen my bag go through the screening and they just waived to me and said you are good to go. It goes smooth if you make it easy for them. I use the newer and slightly heavier duty TSA locks. TSA0008 key which is not as readily available but they should be able to access it without cutting. I also carry a spare set of NON_TSA locks - why? Well because the TSA contradicts themselves. They state you can use any lock including a TSA lock but they also state that no one but you can have a key. That is a contradiction so just in case they have an issue or cut the locks I have it covered. I also put a cable lock through the ejection port and out the magazine opening and I put a plug with a “Chamber Empty” flag in the gun. The mags, firearm and ammo are clearly separated and I back no metal objects in that area of the bag. This way when the bag goes through the xray machine everything is nice and clear and there is no question that the gun is unloaded and stored properly. Hence, no need to open the bag to check, The only other thing that goes in the lock box is a Tile tracker and another goes in the suitcase. That way I know if they are separated and where they are in the process. If I am getting on the plain and they are back in the terminal I know there is a problem. One other thing that I do is tape a business size card onto the outside of my lock box with all my phone numbers, email, address and anything else that might be helpful. There are plenty of videos out there by people with a lot more experience than I have and I took the best from them all and added a few things of my own - so far so good.
Based on my experience: 1---Arrive 2 hours early. Yeah, it's a PIA. But if there is an issue, you have time to resolve it or make other arrangements for your weapons. (Like lock them in your vehicle, call a friend to come and get them, etc..) 2----Hang around the check-in counter for at least 15-20 mins after checking the bag. After checking the bag I announce to the counter rep that "I'm going to wait in case there's an issue." If 20 mins go by and no one says anything, it's likely safe to go through TSA to your gate, but most counter reps will see you're waiting and will give you a thumbs-up that all is OK. If you just leave after check-in and head to TSA and there's an issue, you will get paged (listen for it) and you may end up going through TSA twice. 3---The paperwork attached to your bag by the counter folks already flags it as "special" and everyone behind the "curtain" knows what that means. If someone can read the barcodes, they know what's in (or likely in) the bag. 4---Delta seems the only one that puts additional "seals" in your bag. At your destination you may find giant, extra strong, zip-ties around your bag or otherwise securing it from opening. They (Delta) do this to impede someone from easily opening the bag in the airport and loading a weapon and doing bad things. (Yes, this has happened). 5---On one flight I went to get my bag at "special baggage claim" and showed my ID and they refused to release it to me as the bag was in my wife's name! (We were traveling together and she made the reservations and pre-checked my bag.) Even though I checked it in at the counter, the bag was somehow still in her name. I had to get her to show her ID to get the bag released.
@@dakotamaiden4331makes sense. Though I’d rather have them look at my ID and verify instead of being more lax about it… never know what kinda werid stuff can happen.
I had 300 rounds of 9mm In a plastic ammo case on my way to a competition. I taped it shut to ensure the rounds didn't get loose. TSA cut the tape and dumped all the rounds loose in my bag... gotta love the government
I fly with my handgun all of the time. I have never had a single problem. Everyone should simply follow their respective airline instructions. The few times I’ve flown with long guns have been a pain. I usually had to pick the long guns up at the oversized luggage door where golf clubs are dropped off where the only other requirement was to show both my baggage claim receipt and my ID. Good luck!
Here are a few tips- 1: speak clearly, slowly. 2: be on time, have plenty of time. 3: do NOT use humor, 🥸 sarcasm. It's not funny. You're not a comic. 🎤 . 4: either plan to buy ammunition at the site or know how to store, secure ammunition. 5: check all pockets, bags, sections for brass, cases, rounds!
Unless this has changed, the requirements are the the firearm owner is supposed to retain sole access to the case. If I ever fly again, I will use my case with dial locks and that case will be cabled to the suitcase frame. I have read of handguns going missing when TSA locks had been used. On a trip home from FL, I had a metal case with a single key lock in the middle of the non-hinge edge. When I opened my bag at home, I saw the lid had a pry attempt. Thank goodness is was still locked and the handgun was still inside.
I fly with firearms fairly often, and they asked us to share our experience. My second time flying, it took me an hour and 40 minutes to get past TSA and I almost missed my flight. Be mindful of whether your airport has TSA at the baggage check reliably, or if they have to call them over. TSA was called 6 times and eventually came waddling over. The 7th time I flew, I got flagged during the case swab (they swab your case for carbon or something) because I had my suppressor with me. Just be ready to answer for that if it happens. Other than that, it’s typically 15-30 minutes at my airport.
A friend of mine had that exact situation. He was going to Philadelphia from Florida, where his permit was valid and was asking me about flying. I eventually asked him which airport he was flying into and he said Camden, NJ, I said, forget it!!!
Thank you for the video. I fly with 2A item….. I do the research for the states…. But what I had not thought about was your last point, having to divert flight to a hostile state. Thank you for that information. The only thing that I disagree with you on is the locks.
BRING A CHAMBER FLAG! It makes the TSA agents allot more comfortable when they can tell the firearm is unloaded at a glance. It also saves you time because in my local airport they don't have to call over a police officer to check the chamber.
I travel for work and fly almost every week. I more often than not travel with my hand gun. You can have loaded Magazines in the same case as long as the magazine is not in your gun.
You do not have to use TSA locks on your gun or rifle case. You can escort it to TSA and open it for them. I'd argue that you should. I do it all the time. I've done this in Dallas, Denver, Virginia, Utah, Florida. They've also never cut my locks. I use massive steel shackles as well. Now, flying with a pistol in your checked bag is different. You have to have a TSA lock on the checked bag, but again, not on the pistol case inside. I've done this many, many times. I've also only ebmver had my bag come out on thr carousel once and it was by mistake in a small airport in southern Utah. Everywhere else it comes out in BSO (Baggage Service Office).
Last time I flew with my hand gun to keep from being pried open I formed up a stainless steel strap to go around the handle to prevent it from getting pried open. It was just a standard S&W case. It did pass TSA.
From TSA website “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 always thought this was very contradictory. How can I be in sole possession of a key and TSA locks be okay to use since thousands of people have that key.
This actually depends on the airport. I’m from Dallas and Dallas/Love Field is such a breeze to check in my rifles and guns, but every time I leave Phx international airport it takes them an extra 30 minutes because TSA physically checks my firearms. Also, I use master locks on my cases and not once did they cut it open. They asked me to hang tight, and TSA came by and asked for my key. Wasn’t an issue.
I had a problem there once. The moron, I mean agent, wanted me to open the cases and then show him the guns-without touching said guns. We did make our flight.
Isn't it against the law to give them your key? I was told you physically have to be present and you have to maintain the keys the entire time. If they need you to open the case you unlock it and then walk back so they don't get jumpy and shoot ya.
You had me until you said "masterlock". Why dude. Literally the most dogshit locks on the planet. You might as well secure it with a zip tie. Use ABUS at least.
Thank you for doing a straightforward video about traveling with a firearm and not trying to also sell some traveling product like some other tubers do (cough cough Colion cough)
Flown with carry guns several times now. No issues, but great advice about not taking possession of your bag in restricted states. Never thought of that.
I politely disagree with your recommendation to use TSA locks on hard cases. I have flown numerous times with both pistol cases in checked luggage and rifle cases check separately. I have NEVER had an airline or TSA question my locks not being TSA locks. Further, TSA locks are very poor quality and likely easily busted open. My two cents.
Every time I have flown with a firearm in my luggage, I have been required to pick it up at the lost baggage office. Regarding locks, I flew several times with Master locks on my Pelican case. That is, until the airline agent refused the case because the locks were not TSA locks. So, I replaced them with TSA locks and had no trouble the next time.
So I flew out of Seattle like 3 years ago with mine. Neat part is they had a little tea window around the corner from normal check in so no line. Got there thinking i had to unload the mags and had a half empty ammo box for that purpose and the guy said as long as it's not in the gun it's not loaded. Had a hard case with my lock on 1 side and it was inside my actual checked bag. Annoying part was the bright orange firearm tag on the outside of my bag when it came down the baggage claim conveyor to where anyone could've grabbed it. no issues with ammo in the mags flying out of Vegas either. But again that was back in 2021 so maybe they're more strict now
I always add an hour to my check in time when flying with fire arm. i.e Seatac once you check your bags, they will take you to the TSA inspection booth, depending on what time of day last time I waited 20 minutes for my turn plus the 10 minutes for them to go through the process. Save your self the time, keep a copy of the latest airline policy and TSA guidelines in your carry bag and inside your gun case.
I’ve never personally flown with a firearm, but I’m pretty sure the TSA explicitly states to NOT use a TSA approved lock for firearms. This is because anyone at the TSA would have access to your firearm. Might mysteriously walk-off during the trip.
Correct. Only you should be able to unlock your weapon. Too much liability if it's a TSA lock. Your suitcase that contains your gun case can be a TSA lock, but the case inside needs to be something that will require your presence to unlock.
That changed recently to allowing any lock, but you really shouldn't use TSA locks - just stay available outside of the secure area till your bag with gun case inside or long gun case is clears - most often you'll need to open it for inspection.
Bags look alike. Make sure yours is distinctive with a piece of yarn, ribbon, or some other unique identifier that will prevent anyone from accidentally taking your bag and firearm off the carousel. Happened to me once. Zip tie your suitcase closed. Do not take possession of the zip ties are compromised.
I NEVER USE TSA locks for NFA items. Can put extra locks, in the case plus the same amount in your carry-on, with the special item(s), to replace all the locks on the case in case they get cut off/"lost." The hard shell case I use, the lock hasps are not exposed enough to get a bolt cutter around them. For particularly expensive special items, have enough special item lost, stolen or damaged insurance.
You can’t travel with NFA items!!!! That’s very illegal they are supposed to stay in your own state. Your supposed to notify ATF! The fact you don’t know this means you probably shouldn’t own any lol.
@@nl9002 which is it, you can't travel with NFA items, or you have to notify ATF? Yes you have to MOTHER MAY I ATF to travel out of state. IN CASE, keed copy of tax stamp for NFA item, your trust documents if trust owned, & ATF approval to travel. Keep copies of all paperwork with you on your person also. I never use TSA locks but I always keep extra non-TSA locks in the hard-sided case AND FULL EXTRA LOCKS FOR EACH LEG OF THE TRIP TO AND FROM, in my carry-on. Have found locks inside case no longer inside case so it had been opened on more than one occasion. Three times have gone to bad bad bad states and had NFA items forwarded, never touched them in those tyrannical anti-USA-constitution states. AGREE THAT I'VE HAD THE LEAST HASSLES traveling SWA than on Alaska Air, United and AA. Haven't flown any others with NFA items.
Two points you got wrong. As far as TSA is concerned, mags may be loaded as long as they are not inserted in the gun. But some airlines might not allow this. Secondly, the lock on the gun case should NOT have a lock that TSA can open. That's why you hang around until TSA accepts the bag. Use TSA locks on the suitcase containing the locked gun case.
I NEVER use TSA locks. They have NEVER cut my other locks, but I DO carry spares with my carry-on. LAX is the easiest airport to fly from in my experience. Boise Idaho ALWAYS has me completely empty the checked baggage, and also open the locked firearm case.
Flew from Chattanooga to Las Vagas & back with pistol in locked hard case unloaded no mag in gun ammo in cardboard. Took a little longer to check in, no time to pick up in NV but took an hour to pick up in our little airport in Chattanooga from Delta. Still totally worth it. Carried everywhere I went in Las Vagas.
It has been a year since I have but have flown with firearms several times in the last 10 years. Biggest issue to me is that TSA handles it differently in every airport I've been in. In seattle, TSA wants to inspect your firearm case before it's locked. Tampa wanted it locked before they ever saw it. Not saying it has been hard but it has been confusing.
I love you both and thanx for all the great info. I went to Canada for vac. I am glad I looked this up. You can not take mace or pepper spray into canada but you can take Bear spray as long as it says bear spray on the container.
I have previously learned that you are the only one allowed to have a key to the locked firearm case, and therefore TSA approved locks were a bad idea. Anyone can purchase the 7 TSA lock keys online, including baggage handlers that are not authorized. They are not allowed to open the firearm case without you being present. I print these laws and put them on top of the locked pistol case that is inside of my checked luggage. I wait at the ticket counter for up to 30 minutes to be sure it clears TSA and that they don't have any issues or need to open the case before I go beyond the security check point. I also put an air tag inside the locked pistol case.
I had a special handling agent in FL ask me to take out my pistol so she could verify it was unloaded. I asked her directly, you want me to take out a gun at the counter in an airport? She said yes. I asked her if I could please speak to the TSA directly. They scanned the bag and got very excited about a my chrome book. Understand this airport has security with rifles openly carried.
Just wanted to say thanks for putting this out there. Maybe it will help educate people on how to properly fly with firearms. Real expensive mistake to do it improperly.
I had not considered the possibility of being diverted to another destination or stuck at a layover. Good advice. I've only flown once with a firearm, a handgun, from Phoenix to Chicago of all places. Did my homework ahead of time but was still stressed about it. In fact, I had my wife come into the airport with me so if there was a problem, she could take it back home with her. Turns out that it was super easy. It was November (hunting season) and there were 4 or 5 other people in the same line as me traveling with long guns. I drove back from Chicago to Phoenix so I don't know what it would have been like flying out of Chicago. Nor do I really care to find out.
I have flown from Sacramento on Southwest on a number of occasions and have always used a Master lock and have never been questioned about the lock or told to use a TSA lock.
if I heard you correctly, you imply that a loaded magazine is considered a firearm - I don't see that in any of the regs or guidelines. A loaded mag must be in an enclosure unless it completely encloses the ammo. A loaded mag inserted into the firearm isn't allowed. But, I see nothing suggesting you can't have a loaded mag separately in the case with your firearm. Where did you get that? Or did I mis-hear?
I am an airline pilot for one of the largest airlines in the US. I also served as a Federal Flight Deck Officer and travelled armed with my duty weapon on duty and also to and from work. Very different rules for LEO's travelling with duty weapons depending on your agency. I have also travelled on personal business with my personal checked firearms. TSA may not inspect your firearms if you are not present. They will inspect the firearms/case at the time you check it at the ticket counter with the airline. Or in a room behind the ticket counter. And verify paperwork is complete, and weapon/ammo/case is proper. And they will observe you locking the case after inspection. Firearms are supposed to be delivered to the airline's baggage special handling office for pickup. However, one time in Dallas, my long gun case was sent to the regular luggage carousel. I have observed different procedures followed at different TSA stations. They are not always consistent with their own rules/SOP's. Even when I was travelling as a flight deck crew member armed as an FFDO. TSA often very inconsistent depending on the station. Before travelling with a firearm make sure to check the TSA website for the approved way to do so. And print a copy of their requirements to carry with you. Also check the airlines requirements. The airline may be more restrictive and have their own procedures that must be followed. Also. Make sure you read the requirements for transporting ammunition. It can travel in the same locked case as your firearm. But there are limits on how much you can transport. And requirements on how it must be packaged. Use the most secure locks that will fit on your case. Not TSA approved locks. Also consider an Apple tracking device or two concealed in the case and or firearm. Allow yourself at least an extra hour if not more for checking a firearm. Sometimes the wait for a TSA agent to check the firearm can be lengthy.
I think this is also very important, and it makes TSA locks the wrong locks to use, as every TSA employee has a key as well, and only the passenger may have the key to the lock. § 1540.111 (c) (2) (iv) The container in which it is carried is locked, and only the passenger retains the key or combination.
I have my CC in Texas and travel to MN several times a year. Fortunately I land in Fargo, ND. However, MN does not have reciprocity with Texas. North Dakota has reciprocity with both Minnesota and Texas. So I got my CC in ND and now I can transport my handgun to Minnesota. Our local rural MN sheriff is great but god forbid I drive to Minneapolis!
I was flying from OR to FL with stop in Seattle. I get a page while waiting in Seattle. Go outside security and they are questioning me about why my gun case was not checked in at the counter in SEA. We'll I told them I started in Medford. Basically what happened is instead of forwarding my bag to the FLL flight they put it on the carousel in WA! They were skeptical, but I showed them my boarding pass AND the receipt they put a copy of in my case in OR! They even had a cop there during all this. He was very cool about it. Just like that, my guns could have been lost.
I fly with guns almost weekly for work. TSA can not open your firearms case without you being present, NON-TSA Locks only!!!! I also travel with three loaded pistol magazines for my handgun that I daily carry (airlines will set maximum ammo weight, i.e Delta is 11lbs). The bag, will be barcoded and will go to special bags pick up. They will check ID before pick up and then use large zip-ties, and zip the case closed.
I work in a baggage area at an Alaska hunting hot spot and see hundreds of rifle cases a year. If the lock is TSA approved they routinely open them for inspection then fail to secure the lock and when it gets plane side they are falling off. At the baggage carousel each hard plastic box with locks is set aside and only issued to people with a corresponding ID. Sometimes the boxes are not firearms even though locked in a case there is no way to tell.
Excellent information on traveling with a weapon. I have always thought that it would be a better idea for the Airline to have all luggage carrying weapons proceed straight to the Airline's Baggage claim office, only because many people have had their bags mistaken by another passenger and taken the wrong bag. I just think it helps you keep your bag and know that it will not be taken by another person. ( peace of mind during flight from A to B )
I brought my M1 from NY to WA a few years ago. So I'm standing in a quiet airport at 6:15am, all the way down at one end of the ticket counters and showing them it's clear. Once they were satisfied I just let the action slam shut at full force and it echoed LOUD. All of a sudden there were about 70 VERY concerned looking faces staring right at me holding a big ass rifle lol
I have been denied for not having ammo in original packaging. It was in a plastic ammo case. Told them to just take it and throw it away, and I was good to go.
Very often at Houston Hobby there will only be one full service open for SWA and you must use a full service lane. Two hours early especially on holidays.
You should watch some of Deviant Ollam's experiences with the Airlines and the TSA. The level of knowledge of the federal laws regarding travel with firearms is very uneven.
Good information. Something changed since I last checked. It used to be that use must NOT use TSA. Now you can. Didn’t know that. As for the unfriendly states, I carry in them all the time and have even checked a handgun in at Kennedy. They took me to a back room to check it but that’s it. After Heller and NYSRPA, you should either be willing to stand for your rights or you should sit for the National Anthem, especially the part about the free and the brave.
Southwest allows the ammunition to be in the magazine, but the mag has to be removed from the firearm in the container. Other airlines prohibit the ammo from being in the mag even if removed. This is not a TSA stipulation.
Southwest has different policies depending on the airport you depart from. I’ve had various experiences. Some chill, some stupid. I’ve had up to 30 min delays. Phoenix went through and swabbed EVERY item in my bags, even insisted on swabbing my weapon then put a special tag on my bag after checking it in
I’ve traveled with SWA with competition for rifles. I’ve never had a problem carrying ammunition in commercial plastic ammo boxes. The problem is the weight limit on ammunition, 5 kg. If going to an event that requires more than that I’ve pre shipped it to some at the destination. SWA’s policy, for obvious rifle/shotgun cases is to take them to the office in the baggage claim area and they will do an ID check as you note. If they fail to do so they should be reported to corporate. Re TSA locks: I have yet to find one that was any good. I’ve used keyed locks and accompanied my bags to TSA, notifying them that I have a key to the locks if they wish to open the case.
I live in Alaska and fly Alaska Airlines. I fly in state to hunt. AK Air doesn’t allow you to have ammo in the same case as firearm. I put my ammo in a plastic case that goes in my checked bag. TSA here does not allow you to lock rifle case until after they inspect your rifle case.
Before 9-11 I used to fly back and forth between California and Maryland with a long rifle and several pistols stored in my rifle gun case. Never had a problem, in fact airline employees were reluctant for me to even open the case. The last I traveled with my arms was in 2000 and I had to take a train for medical reasons. They initially had a cow but then agreed to store it in the baggage car. Can't imagine trying it today.
I flew from Nevada to Washington State with a long gun and a pistol. I did not bring any ammo because I have my friend buy my ammo there. I liked that my bag was hand carried to and from the plane. It was a pelican bag, with non-TAS approved locks. The airline told me to not put TSA approved locks on my bag. I was told that when it went through x-ray if they had questions they would contact me. I was called over when I was leaving Washington State to open my bag. Otherwise it was uneventful. Although when I was looking out the window I actually saw someone carrying my bag to the plane on a separate cart it was not on the baggage cart, it did have a sticker requiring special handling, nothing that indicated it was a weapon.
I've traveled by air with firearms many many times. Always with TSA locks on my case and the checked bag that contains it. Over the past 2 years, they have cut my lock every single time. I guess it's a bridge too far to go get the big key ring with all the keys for the TSA locks. SO... Always carry extra locks. :)
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Ok as a person that worked for TSA as a supervisor for years in the checked baggage area, obviously not a brag in any sense just saying where I'm getting my information from. PLEASE DO NOT USE TSA LOCKS FOR GUN CASES. TSA should not have access to your guns without you there if they have to inspect specifically the gun case. Not illegal to use TSA locks as I saw in the comments just not the best idea imo.
Finally someone who knows what they are talking about. Thank you.
Agree!! Suggest using something like a set of Schlage KS23D2300 padlocks on long gun cases. Can be keyed alike, are hard to pick, and hard to cut with bolt cutters. Place your ammunition boxes in a separate locked container, and they rarely look in it. Use a chamber flag in every weapon. Proves it’s unloaded in the Xray. Use Air Tags or similar in each ammunition and weapon case, as well as the suitcase for handguns. Cable all small cases to the suitcase frame.
Exactly! This had me scratching my head because I know you shouldn’t use a TSA lock. Bad advice on this video.
100% Thanks for pointing this out. I have had TSA specifically tell me, "Absolutely no one but you is to have access to this locked case, including us." Which means, do not use TSA locks.; if they need access, they will call you, if they have questions, they will call you, if they need you for anything, they will want and need you present. Now, caveat is, maybe the law changed recently, so do your own research and investigation.
TSA rules and regs say that no one is to be able to have access to your weapon unless you are present, this includes TSA
I’m sorry - DO NOT DO NOT DO NOT USE TSA LOCKS.
If they want to open the case, it should be done in YOUR presence. This also prevents the TSA from tampering with your firearm after it’s checked.
If you use a TSA lock, kiss your firearm goodbye.
I could not agree more. This is BAD advice... NEVER use TSA locks.
This video was so bad it makes me wonder if their other videos are also full of shit. Gell-Mann amnesia effect.
Have you actually checked a firearm using non-TSA approved locks? Did they leave it alone and not cut off your locks? I would rather not use the TSA locks. I don’t want them going through my case.
@@cwhitty05 That’s it exactly. If they cut off the locks then you have legal recourse against them.
@@2A_Patriot interesting. I wonder if YT is screwing up or if this channel is deleting comments they don't like. Don't see my reply to you anymore. It said there's such bad information in this video that it makes me wonder about the accuracy of information in their other videos. Gell-Mann amnesia effect.
Former LEO instructor. For handguns, use a non-tsa lock on the case. Cable lock the case to the inside of the bag, and use tsa locks on the outside of the bag. Slide locked to the rear so that it can be verified unloaded on xray.
Flew into Atlanta one time, they put a "do not place on carousel" tag on my checked case with my gun, but naturally they put it on the carousel anyway. So I would suggest it's always good to check the carousel first even if it shouldn't be there, just to make sure no one walks off with it. I got lucky no one decided to steal mine with the very obvious "this shouldn't be here" tag on it.
@@Astronomy_Live in contrast to your experience, I have flown between Nashville and RSW Fort Myers, Florida several times and every time I have arrived at RSW and sort of standing around the carousel, wondering when my bag was going to show up, two guys in black suits came over and taped me on the shoulder and addressed me by name and said we have your bag right here. That’s the way it should be handled.
@@bobisonline I've always had a positive experience with RSW. Orlando also handled my checked gun properly. Atlanta acted like I was an idiot for expecting them to keep my bag off the carousel even though it was visibly marked as such.
@@Astronomy_Live amazing how attitudes can change based on geography!
It depends on the airport, and possibly the airline. I've flown in and out of a couple of dozen airports. The majority of the time they come out on the carousel.
@Astronomy_Live Going out of Atlanta, the luggage goes through oversized luggage. If they see a regular sized suitcase they're going to guess that there's a gun in it. But how are they going to know when it gets there? They can't mark the outside of the bag to show that it's a firearm. So how would the baggage handlers know?
"Don't take possession; have the airline forward it to the final destination." !!! 💯 !!!
ya what could go wrong??
I wonder how that works when it is sitting on the luggage carousel going round and round? Do you sit there and watch it until the airline takes possession of it again?
@@latigomorgan at least with American which is the airline I have the most experience with using when traveling with firearms… the bag should go to the baggage service office BSO. I have had it show up on the carousel (rarely). Recently was one instance. When I saw that I pointed it out to the BSO staff. They were actually embarrassed and said it should never happen. This may just be with some airlines. 🤷
@@troublets3060 Delta marks bags carrying firearms as “special handling” so they end up in the baggage claim office. That to me is marking the exterior of the luggage which is contrary to TSA guidelines. They of course get away with it because the tag doesn’t specifically say “firearm”. But still. Bad form Delta.
Every other airline I fly on follows TSA guidelines accurately.
DO NOT USE TSA LOCKS ON FIREARMS. When the TSA screws up, and they will you are liable. Secure your firearms' so nobody can get in without you present with the keys. When you check the firearm you wait until the TSA approves your luggage incase they need you to open it. The TSA has no qualifications to handle ANY firearms. I am speaking from experience.
Then what they do is call you to the carrier's desk. They tie you up there with endless stupidity and confusion while TSA cuts your locks and then tells you that it can't go on the plane because the box isn't secure enough. Or, replaces your locks with zip ties without saying anything and you discover it at your destination. My favorite, they call the air port police and they try to seize the weapon because TSA removed the tags so they don't know who it belongs to so it's apparently no one's property.
So many ways to screw that up. I literally only fly charter now because It's too much hassle.
The TSA has an exception for firearms. All other luggage should have TSA approved locks, but locks on firearms should not be TSA approved because they don't want their own employees stealing your firearms. TSA locks are the lowest level of security. Anyone with a TSA master key can open any of them. Get to the airport early and allow plenty of time for TSA to check your firearms in your presence and never hand over your keys.
@@PetrolJunkie Never had an issue. Different airports have different procedures. Some have me take it to a TSA Drop point. They scan the case and say good to go or ask to open. Some have me wait 10 minutes for it to get through. If they need me to open it then I am close by. After 10 minutes I make eye contact with the counter person and they let me know if Im good or not.
It doesn’t matter if you never had an issue. It’s actually illegal to use a TSA lock on a firearm case while flying with it
@@lukenick2299 while I agree with you I can see where there is some confusion. Taken right from the TSA page “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.” Now the key point is “only the passenger should retain the key or combination”. So how can it be in compliance if it can be opened by a TSA key? But then it also says “You may use any brand or type of lock to secure your firearm case, including TSA-recognized locks.” Now I have seen on some airlines where nothing was said when someone used TSA locks. I would never use such a lock for a firearm so it really caught me off guard. I have also seen TSA locks sold near the gun safes at Bass Pro/Cabellas.
Great advice, Don't take possession in a hostile location. I wouldn't have thought of that.
that was some really good and important information, I always wondered about something like that happening and what would I do? But, now I know thanks to them.
Some poor schmuck got hooked up on this very situation a couple of years ago flying from New Hampshire to Georgia and was diverted to New Jersey (or some such flight) He tried not to take possession, but they bullied him into it, and sure enough the cops were waiting for him.
Oathbreakers gonna break paths.
Yes. Its not a bad idea to toss a change of clothes and toiletries in another bag or your carry-on in case you get stuck somewhere. you can take what you need and not accept the bag with the lock box.
What about hand loaded ammunition? I've been doing that for 30 years and I hardly ever shoot factory ammo. Do I have to leave the components in their factory packaging and load them once I reach my destination?
ACTCHUALLY… the TSA guidance says and the “Firearms Declaration” you sign typically says “with the only key/combination in my possession”. So that would disqualify TSA locks.
I’ve had many different experiences and requirements at the counter. Ranging from “sign this OK you’re good“ to “Open it please. That ammo needs to be in the original packaging. No not just any sealed container. Let me get my manager” to “ Sign this. Now walk to the other end of the terminal and sign another thing.”
I’ve had different policies applied at the same airport on the same trip.
Been there don that.
@@lo-fidevil2950 yes even though airlines have to follow TSA rules they are still able to add a few layers of stupid on top
@@lo-fidevil2950 I flew Southwest from St Louis to Phoenix where the ticket agent asked the required questions, sign this, place it on the safe and “have a great trip.
On the return the ticket agent had me and my luggage escorted to TSA where they MADE ME OPEN THE SAFE and inspected my firearm. I was then escorted back to the ticket counter to continue to check my bag. Ridiculous.
Former airline employee here. Some airlines use a barcode system for tracking. Every bag has to be scanned onto the plane, off the plane, and onto the carousel. That system will alert to a firearm contained without them placing an obvious sticker notice on the outside.
This was my thought use one of the few codes on the luggage tags and if it's on the computer it's not flagged anywhere else expect on the other ends computer when the plane lands *in theory* anyways providing actual security from an organization not often known for that (TSA does a good job but they also goof it just as much )
I have a bunch of the Samsung tracker tags. Strongly recommend keeping one of those tags in each piece of checked luggage. (Apple has their version of it for members of the iCult) And an extra one in your gun case. But DO NOT label the tag "Gun Box." "Luggage 1," "Luggage 2," etc. is fine.
A guy I know had a tag in his gun case, tracked it to his destination, and was able to show the location to airport staff when they "lost" his bag. It magically appeared after a few minutes.
The part about dealing with gun-unfriendly states really hit home for me - definitely something every 2A supporter should keep in mind when planning trips.
CAN'T fly into Illinois WHAT SO EVER!!! 🐂💩
Isn’t it pathetic (and Anti Constitutional ) that we cannot go anywhere in the United States without fear of being arrested. We need all state reciprocity!
That’s what Constitutional carry really is.
The federal government needs to require state governments to prove that restrictions do not exceed the historical tradition of firearm regulation.
It seems the same political minds that tells us to back off otherwise law abiding individuals who disregard our immigration laws, will not give the same deference to otherwise law abiding citizens who disregard their gun laws.
Do not mock the Land of The Free!
@@hubriswonk
Ha, we’re supposed to be free….NOT
@@hubriswonk I'm a disabled veteran that patriotically and proudly served my country! It took over 15 years to get all my benefits because of the insane laws against us through the Department of Veterans Affairs! Furthermore, this isn't the same country that I served for over 12 years before being medically retired!
So, actual security vs the illusion of security. If you have a lock that the TSA has a universal key for, then that means that the lock itself is VERY easily picked or that key obtained. So, while the entire TSA is the "idea" of security without actually delievering any, this just further demonstrates it.
This is right off the TSA website. 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. They are not allowed by their own regulation to open the case without you there!
That is new. I suspect the change was made by some low-level no nothing. Apart from the website, I’d like to see the actual regulations.
Very helpful. Thanks. I’ve flown with mine twice now, and with all the online assistance and reading my airline’s and TSA’s policies, it turned out to be very straightforward.
I flew with my handgun 2 weeks ago. With the mags loaded but in
Mag holsters, and the gun empty. The website says a lock that only you can access. It specifies not to use a TSA lock. If they need to access your case, it is to be done under your supervision. It's still your weapon, and nobody should be able to access it without you. You have to dig around in the TSA websites to get all the answers. They don't make it easy to find but the info is there.
Not to contradict the information provided, but I have asked the TSA agents in every airport I’ve flown to or from what type of locks to use, and without exception they have stated to use non-TSA locks on pistol lock boxes inside the luggage and on the exterior of rifle cases. On luggage it is HIGHLY recommended to use the TSA locks. Every airport has its own inspection procedures, so be prepared to be flexible.
That makes sense. Also carry spare locks and zip ties, and a nail clipper in your carry on gear.
I was told it was illegal to use TSA locks. You are supposed to have the only key to that gun case, according to TSA!!
Edit: I'll be bringing TSA locks with as someone suggested. If I have to put them on to get where I'm going, I have to.
Also my understanding and direct experience flying.
They say one thing and do another. Even when you print off the rules from the TSA website and airline website. I think it devolves to whoever is the supervisor that particular shift.
That’s the way I heard it too. So confusing
I guess just bring a set of TSA and non TSA locks. Freaking ridiculous....
I wish the someone from the channel would respond to this. I get they need to avoid offering legal advice, but some clarity of they can find better than we can would be nice.
My understanding is to use a non-TSA lock. TSA is only supposed to inspect the bag in your presence. Every time I have travelled with my gun, I either have to take my luggage to a TSA officer who inspects it in my presence, or the airline agent puts the bag on the conveyor belt and tells me to hang around for about 15 minutes. TSA will call me if the bags need to be inspected.
On two occasions I air-traveled with rounds in magazines in the locked handgun box. The inspectors told me that was fine, as long as the rounds aren't loose.
Also, in Orlando, I had to go to a special area, called "additional services" to check my bag. It probably added half an hour to check-in, even though it went smoothly.
I have also travelled with ammo in the magazine (but no loose ammo). Never had an issue. I do carry an empty ammo box just in case.
OIA, MCO ✈️ can vary. GOAA. Orlando, TSA had some scandals, Puerto Rico 🇵🇷 gun smuggler rings. I fly out of MCO often. I use a older blue S&W plastic case.
I believe it is an airline specific requirement. The TSA does not care.
@@Zzooomm Correct.
@@Zzooomm Depends how you read the regulation. By the letter, the ammunition must be "completely enclosed." I don't have a single firearm magazine (and I have quite a few) that COMPLETELY encloses every single round, because no magazine that anybody would be terribly familiar with does. Glock, AR, CZ P10, P365, Ruger MkIV, you name it. The last round in is always partially exposed because it has to be for feeding. So, technically, those magazines would be no bueno unless they had a cover over the top.
With that said, I have never had an issue with just storing the ammo I bring in the magazines I bring. Done it half a dozen times or so. The spirit of the law is that they don't want loose ammo clanking around during the flight. In that sense, magazines comply with the spirit of the rule, just perhaps not the letter.
The law should make sense country wide no exceptions
How difficult is "... shall not be infringed"?
It's rather simple to me, and simple trumps all other modus operandi. It's like your right to breath air, until you make victims out of innocent people; then you forfeit that right to breathe.
Yeah I don't like the fact that states can pick and choose whether or not they choose to recognize the 2A.
It should be constitutional nationwide.
@@troy3456789 I agree, but the law should reflect that right and Congress should pass a law making people free to cross state lines. That is what I meant, Leave Texas and wind up in NY or CA no problem
It does if youre a LEO. They get special country wide privledges. Hell they can carry a loaded firearm onto the plane, off duty.
Put an AirTag in your case.
Extra Credit - remove the speaker from the AirTag
Abaolutely!
definity do both
How do you remove the speaker?
@@Zzooomm
That’s a RUclips vid you can search for.
Why?
When people get alerts that an unknown AirTag is with them, they can make it beep to find it.
You don’t want them to find it.
I fly quite often w/ one or two of my handguns.
I agree that Southwest seems to be the most lenient and therefore the best to fly with.
I follow the TSA laws, but keep my ammunition in the magazines (with a speedloader used as a cap) but keep the magazines outside of the firearm.
Per TSA and Southwest rules that is legal since the firearm is still unloaded and the magazine counts as a container made for ammunition.
I think you missed a couple of things here that would be helpful to others. But first, I have only flown Southwest and with a handgun secured in a locked box within my luggage. I found the process very easy and fast. In fact, I would say that I passed through check in faster than those waiting on line because I went directly up to the service counter each time. Just let a service person know that you need to do a “Declaration” they will know what that is and point you in the right direction. One correction to what you stated on ammo is that Southwest does not require it to be in the original box. That is one of the options. It must be securely placed in a box and they mention metal, cardboard and wood but not plastic. I travel with plastic ammo cases as they are more secure than the cardboard cases. TSA allows plastic and the rules vary. For example, TSA states you “May” carry the ammo in the same secured case but Southwest states that you must. The biggest tip I can give is to read AND PRINT the requirements for both the TSA and the airline that you are flying and have them with your other documents. That way, if an agent has a lapse in memory you can help refresh it for them.
I have seen my bag go through the screening and they just waived to me and said you are good to go. It goes smooth if you make it easy for them. I use the newer and slightly heavier duty TSA locks. TSA0008 key which is not as readily available but they should be able to access it without cutting. I also carry a spare set of NON_TSA locks - why? Well because the TSA contradicts themselves. They state you can use any lock including a TSA lock but they also state that no one but you can have a key. That is a contradiction so just in case they have an issue or cut the locks I have it covered. I also put a cable lock through the ejection port and out the magazine opening and I put a plug with a “Chamber Empty” flag in the gun. The mags, firearm and ammo are clearly separated and I back no metal objects in that area of the bag. This way when the bag goes through the xray machine everything is nice and clear and there is no question that the gun is unloaded and stored properly. Hence, no need to open the bag to check,
The only other thing that goes in the lock box is a Tile tracker and another goes in the suitcase. That way I know if they are separated and where they are in the process. If I am getting on the plain and they are back in the terminal I know there is a problem. One other thing that I do is tape a business size card onto the outside of my lock box with all my phone numbers, email, address and anything else that might be helpful. There are plenty of videos out there by people with a lot more experience than I have and I took the best from them all and added a few things of my own - so far so good.
Based on my experience: 1---Arrive 2 hours early. Yeah, it's a PIA. But if there is an issue, you have time to resolve it or make other arrangements for your weapons. (Like lock them in your vehicle, call a friend to come and get them, etc..) 2----Hang around the check-in counter for at least 15-20 mins after checking the bag. After checking the bag I announce to the counter rep that "I'm going to wait in case there's an issue." If 20 mins go by and no one says anything, it's likely safe to go through TSA to your gate, but most counter reps will see you're waiting and will give you a thumbs-up that all is OK. If you just leave after check-in and head to TSA and there's an issue, you will get paged (listen for it) and you may end up going through TSA twice. 3---The paperwork attached to your bag by the counter folks already flags it as "special" and everyone behind the "curtain" knows what that means. If someone can read the barcodes, they know what's in (or likely in) the bag. 4---Delta seems the only one that puts additional "seals" in your bag. At your destination you may find giant, extra strong, zip-ties around your bag or otherwise securing it from opening. They (Delta) do this to impede someone from easily opening the bag in the airport and loading a weapon and doing bad things. (Yes, this has happened). 5---On one flight I went to get my bag at "special baggage claim" and showed my ID and they refused to release it to me as the bag was in my wife's name! (We were traveling together and she made the reservations and pre-checked my bag.) Even though I checked it in at the counter, the bag was somehow still in her name. I had to get her to show her ID to get the bag released.
Delta main hub is in Minneapolis. that says volumes
Weird. The back being check in under the wrong name has happened to me too. Scary to know
@@dakotamaiden4331makes sense. Though I’d rather have them look at my ID and verify instead of being more lax about it… never know what kinda werid stuff can happen.
With ever changing gun laws this discussion never gets old. Thanks for this video.
I had 300 rounds of 9mm In a plastic ammo case on my way to a competition. I taped it shut to ensure the rounds didn't get loose. TSA cut the tape and dumped all the rounds loose in my bag... gotta love the government
I had the TSA cut their own lock before, and on the connecting flight layover told me I was the one at fault.
They don't hire the brightest!
@@flipsidezw take photos when dropping off the case inside and out locked!
@@tools6106 Some gun writers, cops 2000s 2010s say print out & have the air port FAA, airline SOPs 📑 .
TSA reg says ammo has to be in original manufacture boxes or containers
I fly with my handgun all of the time. I have never had a single problem. Everyone should simply follow their respective airline instructions. The few times I’ve flown with long guns have been a pain. I usually had to pick the long guns up at the oversized luggage door where golf clubs are dropped off where the only other requirement was to show both my baggage claim receipt and my ID. Good luck!
Here are a few tips- 1: speak clearly, slowly. 2: be on time, have plenty of time. 3: do NOT use humor, 🥸 sarcasm. It's not funny. You're not a comic. 🎤 . 4: either plan to buy ammunition at the site or know how to store, secure ammunition. 5: check all pockets, bags, sections for brass, cases, rounds!
Have you flown internationally with firearms?
Unless this has changed, the requirements are the the firearm owner is supposed to retain sole access to the case. If I ever fly again, I will use my case with dial locks and that case will be cabled to the suitcase frame.
I have read of handguns going missing when TSA locks had been used.
On a trip home from FL, I had a metal case with a single key lock in the middle of the non-hinge edge. When I opened my bag at home, I saw the lid had a pry attempt. Thank goodness is was still locked and the handgun was still inside.
Iam thinking of buying a gun case that looks like a violin case or something still a legit legal case but probably would fool the low IQ TSA thief
I fly with firearms fairly often, and they asked us to share our experience.
My second time flying, it took me an hour and 40 minutes to get past TSA and I almost missed my flight. Be mindful of whether your airport has TSA at the baggage check reliably, or if they have to call them over.
TSA was called 6 times and eventually came waddling over.
The 7th time I flew, I got flagged during the case swab (they swab your case for carbon or something) because I had my suppressor with me. Just be ready to answer for that if it happens.
Other than that, it’s typically 15-30 minutes at my airport.
A friend of mine had that exact situation. He was going to Philadelphia from Florida, where his permit was valid and was asking me about flying. I eventually asked him which airport he was flying into and he said Camden, NJ, I said, forget it!!!
One of my fears is the thought of flying from gun friendly Ohio to gun friendly Pennsylvania, BUT the flight gets redirected to NJ due to weather 😬
Thank you for the video. I fly with 2A item….. I do the research for the states…. But what I had not thought about was your last point, having to divert flight to a hostile state. Thank you for that information. The only thing that I disagree with you on is the locks.
BRING A CHAMBER FLAG! It makes the TSA agents allot more comfortable when they can tell the firearm is unloaded at a glance. It also saves you time because in my local airport they don't have to call over a police officer to check the chamber.
They check the chamber when I flew the guy just looked down at the guns said ok they was it this was 8 years ago tho
I travel for work and fly almost every week. I more often than not travel with my hand gun. You can have loaded Magazines in the same case as long as the magazine is not in your gun.
And the magazine has to be enclosed in something, like a mag pouch. I've seen them let you tape up the end of a mag.
@@wjbarricklow I just place them as is in the same case as the firearm as is and lock that as well as the luggage the case is inside of.
@@wjbarricklownope
You do not have to use TSA locks on your gun or rifle case. You can escort it to TSA and open it for them. I'd argue that you should. I do it all the time. I've done this in Dallas, Denver, Virginia, Utah, Florida. They've also never cut my locks. I use massive steel shackles as well. Now, flying with a pistol in your checked bag is different. You have to have a TSA lock on the checked bag, but again, not on the pistol case inside. I've done this many, many times.
I've also only ebmver had my bag come out on thr carousel once and it was by mistake in a small airport in southern Utah. Everywhere else it comes out in BSO (Baggage Service Office).
Last time I flew with my hand gun to keep from being pried open I formed up a stainless steel strap to go around the handle to prevent it from getting pried open. It was just a standard S&W case. It did pass TSA.
From TSA website
“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 always thought this was very contradictory. How can I be in sole possession of a key and TSA locks be okay to use since thousands of people have that key.
Thank you guys and gals...
I fly from TX to VA and have always been a little nervous. And didn't want delay..
I left DULLES and
This actually depends on the airport. I’m from Dallas and Dallas/Love Field is such a breeze to check in my rifles and guns, but every time I leave Phx international airport it takes them an extra 30 minutes because TSA physically checks my firearms. Also, I use master locks on my cases and not once did they cut it open. They asked me to hang tight, and TSA came by and asked for my key. Wasn’t an issue.
I had a problem there once. The moron, I mean agent, wanted me to open the cases and then show him the guns-without touching said guns.
We did make our flight.
In about 15+ years with airlines, CONUS 🧳 I've only had 2x, two where a TSA agent or airline worker picked up my firearm, gun to check it.
You are correct on both points. Phoenix can be a pain.
Isn't it against the law to give them your key? I was told you physically have to be present and you have to maintain the keys the entire time. If they need you to open the case you unlock it and then walk back so they don't get jumpy and shoot ya.
You had me until you said "masterlock". Why dude. Literally the most dogshit locks on the planet. You might as well secure it with a zip tie. Use ABUS at least.
"Don't take Possession of your bag" Thank you very much!
Thank you for doing a straightforward video about traveling with a firearm and not trying to also sell some traveling product like some other tubers do (cough cough Colion cough)
Flown with carry guns several times now. No issues, but great advice about not taking possession of your bag in restricted states. Never thought of that.
I politely disagree with your recommendation to use TSA locks on hard cases. I have flown numerous times with both pistol cases in checked luggage and rifle cases check separately. I have NEVER had an airline or TSA question my locks not being TSA locks. Further, TSA locks are very poor quality and likely easily busted open. My two cents.
I enjoyed your video, thank you both.😊
Every time I have flown with a firearm in my luggage, I have been required to pick it up at the lost baggage office. Regarding locks, I flew several times with Master locks on my Pelican case. That is, until the airline agent refused the case because the locks were not TSA locks. So, I replaced them with TSA locks and had no trouble the next time.
Very good to know information especially the part where you told everyone not to take possession of their bags if in a hostile State.
So I flew out of Seattle like 3 years ago with mine. Neat part is they had a little tea window around the corner from normal check in so no line. Got there thinking i had to unload the mags and had a half empty ammo box for that purpose and the guy said as long as it's not in the gun it's not loaded. Had a hard case with my lock on 1 side and it was inside my actual checked bag. Annoying part was the bright orange firearm tag on the outside of my bag when it came down the baggage claim conveyor to where anyone could've grabbed it. no issues with ammo in the mags flying out of Vegas either. But again that was back in 2021 so maybe they're more strict now
I always add an hour to my check in time when flying with fire arm. i.e Seatac once you check your bags, they will take you to the TSA inspection booth, depending on what time of day last time I waited 20 minutes for my turn plus the 10 minutes for them to go through the process.
Save your self the time, keep a copy of the latest airline policy and TSA guidelines in your carry bag and inside your gun case.
I’ve never personally flown with a firearm, but I’m pretty sure the TSA explicitly states to NOT use a TSA approved lock for firearms. This is because anyone at the TSA would have access to your firearm. Might mysteriously walk-off during the trip.
I remember reading this from the TSA also.
Correct. Only you should be able to unlock your weapon. Too much liability if it's a TSA lock. Your suitcase that contains your gun case can be a TSA lock, but the case inside needs to be something that will require your presence to unlock.
That changed recently to allowing any lock, but you really shouldn't use TSA locks - just stay available outside of the secure area till your bag with gun case inside or long gun case is clears - most often you'll need to open it for inspection.
Bags look alike. Make sure yours is distinctive with a piece of yarn, ribbon, or some other unique identifier that will prevent anyone from accidentally taking your bag and firearm off the carousel. Happened to me once. Zip tie your suitcase closed. Do not take possession of the zip ties are compromised.
I NEVER USE TSA locks for NFA items. Can put extra locks, in the case plus the same amount in your carry-on, with the special item(s), to replace all the locks on the case in case they get cut off/"lost." The hard shell case I use, the lock hasps are not exposed enough to get a bolt cutter around them. For particularly expensive special items, have enough special item lost, stolen or damaged insurance.
You can’t travel with NFA items!!!! That’s very illegal they are supposed to stay in your own state. Your supposed to notify ATF! The fact you don’t know this means you probably shouldn’t own any lol.
@@nl9002 which is it, you can't travel with NFA items, or you have to notify ATF? Yes you have to MOTHER MAY I ATF to travel out of state. IN CASE, keed copy of tax stamp for NFA item, your trust documents if trust owned, & ATF approval to travel. Keep copies of all paperwork with you on your person also. I never use TSA locks but I always keep extra non-TSA locks in the hard-sided case AND FULL EXTRA LOCKS FOR EACH LEG OF THE TRIP TO AND FROM, in my carry-on. Have found locks inside case no longer inside case so it had been opened on more than one occasion. Three times have gone to bad bad bad states and had NFA items forwarded, never touched them in those tyrannical anti-USA-constitution states. AGREE THAT I'VE HAD THE LEAST HASSLES traveling SWA than on Alaska Air, United and AA. Haven't flown any others with NFA items.
Two points you got wrong. As far as TSA is concerned, mags may be loaded as long as they are not inserted in the gun. But some airlines might not allow this. Secondly, the lock on the gun case should NOT have a lock that TSA can open. That's why you hang around until TSA accepts the bag. Use TSA locks on the suitcase containing the locked gun case.
I NEVER use TSA locks. They have NEVER cut my other locks, but I DO carry spares with my carry-on. LAX is the easiest airport to fly from in my experience. Boise Idaho ALWAYS has me completely empty the checked baggage, and also open the locked firearm case.
Flew from Chattanooga to Las Vagas & back with pistol in locked hard case unloaded no mag in gun ammo in cardboard. Took a little longer to check in, no time to pick up in NV but took an hour to pick up in our little airport in Chattanooga from Delta. Still totally worth it. Carried everywhere I went in Las Vagas.
As always very informative and entertaining to boot - gotta love our favorite Armed Attorneys- Richard and Emily!
It has been a year since I have but have flown with firearms several times in the last 10 years. Biggest issue to me is that TSA handles it differently in every airport I've been in. In seattle, TSA wants to inspect your firearm case before it's locked. Tampa wanted it locked before they ever saw it. Not saying it has been hard but it has been confusing.
Great advice. Thanks for sharing.
I love you both and thanx for all the great info. I went to Canada for vac. I am glad I looked this up.
You can not take mace or pepper spray into canada but you can take Bear spray as long as it says bear spray on the container.
I have previously learned that you are the only one allowed to have a key to the locked firearm case, and therefore TSA approved locks were a bad idea. Anyone can purchase the 7 TSA lock keys online, including baggage handlers that are not authorized. They are not allowed to open the firearm case without you being present. I print these laws and put them on top of the locked pistol case that is inside of my checked luggage. I wait at the ticket counter for up to 30 minutes to be sure it clears TSA and that they don't have any issues or need to open the case before I go beyond the security check point. I also put an air tag inside the locked pistol case.
Great information, as always. Thank you!
Thanks Richard and Emily.
I am about to check the process for the first time. Perfect timing!
Done it alot. You are right its different every time at different airports. DULLES IS THE WORST🚒!
I had a special handling agent in FL ask me to take out my pistol so she could verify it was unloaded. I asked her directly, you want me to take out a gun at the counter in an airport? She said yes. I asked her if I could please speak to the TSA directly. They scanned the bag and got very excited about a my chrome book. Understand this airport has security with rifles openly carried.
Just wanted to say thanks for putting this out there. Maybe it will help educate people on how to properly fly with firearms. Real expensive mistake to do it improperly.
I had not considered the possibility of being diverted to another destination or stuck at a layover. Good advice.
I've only flown once with a firearm, a handgun, from Phoenix to Chicago of all places. Did my homework ahead of time but was still stressed about it. In fact, I had my wife come into the airport with me so if there was a problem, she could take it back home with her. Turns out that it was super easy. It was November (hunting season) and there were 4 or 5 other people in the same line as me traveling with long guns. I drove back from Chicago to Phoenix so I don't know what it would have been like flying out of Chicago. Nor do I really care to find out.
Extremely helpful!!!❤
I have flown from Sacramento on Southwest on a number of occasions and have always used a Master lock and have never been questioned about the lock or told to use a TSA lock.
Thanks, Richard & Emily 👍
Florida has Constitutional Carry and also issues CWPs. One of the reasons that I have a CWP is so that I can use it in other states.
A CWP also allow a person to carry within the thousand-foot prohibited area adjacent to schools per federal law.
It's not Constitutional Carry if it infringes by banning most open carry;
Florida merely has Permitless Carry.
if I heard you correctly, you imply that a loaded magazine is considered a firearm - I don't see that in any of the regs or guidelines. A loaded mag must be in an enclosure unless it completely encloses the ammo. A loaded mag inserted into the firearm isn't allowed. But, I see nothing suggesting you can't have a loaded mag separately in the case with your firearm. Where did you get that? Or did I mis-hear?
I use a lifeproof biometric case from vaulttec! There is nothing that they can cut off and never had a problem!
You saved the best advice until last! I’d never heard that. Thanks
I am an airline pilot for one of the largest airlines in the US. I also served as a Federal Flight Deck Officer and travelled armed with my duty weapon on duty and also to and from work. Very different rules for LEO's travelling with duty weapons depending on your agency. I have also travelled on personal business with my personal checked firearms. TSA may not inspect your firearms if you are not present. They will inspect the firearms/case at the time you check it at the ticket counter with the airline. Or in a room behind the ticket counter. And verify paperwork is complete, and weapon/ammo/case is proper. And they will observe you locking the case after inspection. Firearms are supposed to be delivered to the airline's baggage special handling office for pickup. However, one time in Dallas, my long gun case was sent to the regular luggage carousel. I have observed different procedures followed at different TSA stations. They are not always consistent with their own rules/SOP's. Even when I was travelling as a flight deck crew member armed as an FFDO. TSA often very inconsistent depending on the station. Before travelling with a firearm make sure to check the TSA website for the approved way to do so. And print a copy of their requirements to carry with you. Also check the airlines requirements. The airline may be more restrictive and have their own procedures that must be followed. Also. Make sure you read the requirements for transporting ammunition. It can travel in the same locked case as your firearm. But there are limits on how much you can transport. And requirements on how it must be packaged. Use the most secure locks that will fit on your case. Not TSA approved locks. Also consider an Apple tracking device or two concealed in the case and or firearm. Allow yourself at least an extra hour if not more for checking a firearm. Sometimes the wait for a TSA agent to check the firearm can be lengthy.
I think this is also very important, and it makes TSA locks the wrong locks to use, as every TSA employee has a key as well, and only the passenger may have the key to the lock.
§ 1540.111 (c) (2) (iv)
The container in which it is carried is locked, and only the passenger retains the key or combination.
I have my CC in Texas and travel to MN several times a year. Fortunately I land in Fargo, ND. However, MN does not have reciprocity with Texas. North Dakota has reciprocity with both Minnesota and Texas. So I got my CC in ND and now I can transport my handgun to Minnesota. Our local rural MN sheriff is great but god forbid I drive to Minneapolis!
Very important info. Thank you. Emily and Richard.
I was flying from OR to FL with stop in Seattle. I get a page while waiting in Seattle. Go outside security and they are questioning me about why my gun case was not checked in at the counter in SEA. We'll I told them I started in Medford. Basically what happened is instead of forwarding my bag to the FLL flight they put it on the carousel in WA! They were skeptical, but I showed them my boarding pass AND the receipt they put a copy of in my case in OR! They even had a cop there during all this. He was very cool about it. Just like that, my guns could have been lost.
I fly with guns almost weekly for work. TSA can not open your firearms case without you being present, NON-TSA Locks only!!!! I also travel with three loaded pistol magazines for my handgun that I daily carry (airlines will set maximum ammo weight, i.e Delta is 11lbs). The bag, will be barcoded and will go to special bags pick up. They will check ID before pick up and then use large zip-ties, and zip the case closed.
I work in a baggage area at an Alaska hunting hot spot and see hundreds of rifle cases a year. If the lock is TSA approved they routinely open them for inspection then fail to secure the lock and when it gets plane side they are falling off. At the baggage carousel each hard plastic box with locks is set aside and only issued to people with a corresponding ID. Sometimes the boxes are not firearms even though locked in a case there is no way to tell.
Excellent information on traveling with a weapon. I have always thought that it would be a better idea for the Airline to have all luggage carrying weapons proceed straight to the Airline's Baggage claim office, only because many people have had their bags mistaken by another passenger and taken the wrong bag. I just think it helps you keep your bag and know that it will not be taken by another person. ( peace of mind during flight from A to B )
I traveled from Alabama to Texas on Spirit many years ago, it was super easy.
I brought my M1 from NY to WA a few years ago. So I'm standing in a quiet airport at 6:15am, all the way down at one end of the ticket counters and showing them it's clear. Once they were satisfied I just let the action slam shut at full force and it echoed LOUD. All of a sudden there were about 70 VERY concerned looking faces staring right at me holding a big ass rifle lol
Thanks for the heads-up.
I personally fly only southwest, and every time I've had my mags loaded(not inserted) in the same case. Never once have I had issues doing that.
I have been denied for not having ammo in original packaging. It was in a plastic ammo case. Told them to just take it and throw it away, and I was good to go.
Very often at Houston Hobby there will only be one full service open for SWA and you must use a full service lane. Two hours early especially on holidays.
Very useful information
You should watch some of Deviant Ollam's experiences with the Airlines and the TSA. The level of knowledge of the federal laws regarding travel with firearms is very uneven.
Good information. Something changed since I last checked. It used to be that use must NOT use TSA. Now you can. Didn’t know that.
As for the unfriendly states, I carry in them all the time and have even checked a handgun in at Kennedy. They took me to a back room to check it but that’s it. After Heller and NYSRPA, you should either be willing to stand for your rights or you should sit for the National Anthem, especially the part about the free and the brave.
Good info, thank y’all!
Southwest allows the ammunition to be in the magazine, but the mag has to be removed from the firearm in the container. Other airlines prohibit the ammo from being in the mag even if removed. This is not a TSA stipulation.
Southwest has different policies depending on the airport you depart from. I’ve had various experiences. Some chill, some stupid. I’ve had up to 30 min delays. Phoenix went through and swabbed EVERY item in my bags, even insisted on swabbing my weapon then put a special tag on my bag after checking it in
I’ve traveled with SWA with competition for rifles. I’ve never had a problem carrying ammunition in commercial plastic ammo boxes. The problem is the weight limit on ammunition, 5 kg. If going to an event that requires more than that I’ve pre shipped it to some at the destination.
SWA’s policy, for obvious rifle/shotgun cases is to take them to the office in the baggage claim area and they will do an ID check as you note. If they fail to do so they should be reported to corporate.
Re TSA locks: I have yet to find one that was any good. I’ve used keyed locks and accompanied my bags to TSA, notifying them that I have a key to the locks if they wish to open the case.
I live in Alaska and fly Alaska Airlines. I fly in state to hunt. AK Air doesn’t allow you to have ammo in the same case as firearm. I put my ammo in a plastic case that goes in my checked bag. TSA here does not allow you to lock rifle case until after they inspect your rifle case.
Airlines have their own requirements that, in some cases exceed the regulatory requirements in the CFR.
Before 9-11 I used to fly back and forth between California and Maryland with a long rifle and several pistols stored in my rifle gun case. Never had a problem, in fact airline employees were reluctant for me to even open the case. The last I traveled with my arms was in 2000 and I had to take a train for medical reasons. They initially had a cow but then agreed to store it in the baggage car. Can't imagine trying it today.
For the first time yesterday, the TSA DID NOT open my gun case. I was told they only check long guns now. This was Terminal B at DFW. YMMV!
I flew from Nevada to Washington State with a long gun and a pistol. I did not bring any ammo because I have my friend buy my ammo there. I liked that my bag was hand carried to and from the plane. It was a pelican bag, with non-TAS approved locks. The airline told me to not put TSA approved locks on my bag. I was told that when it went through x-ray if they had questions they would contact me. I was called over when I was leaving Washington State to open my bag. Otherwise it was uneventful. Although when I was looking out the window I actually saw someone carrying my bag to the plane on a separate cart it was not on the baggage cart, it did have a sticker requiring special handling, nothing that indicated it was a weapon.
I've traveled by air with firearms many many times. Always with TSA locks on my case and the checked bag that contains it. Over the past 2 years, they have cut my lock every single time. I guess it's a bridge too far to go get the big key ring with all the keys for the TSA locks. SO... Always carry extra locks. :)