Anyone ever legally fly with a firearm?

[EdLongshanks]

So I’m headed out west for a back country trail ride with my son and some other guys. I’m thinking I would like to have a firearm present. I’ve read the tsa guidelines. Since I’ve never done this…I really don’t want to screw it up. Does anyone have any advice or tips on how to pack the weapon? I was thinking the original case with a secured lock? Do they sell tsa approved cases? I can put the unloaded magazines and ammo in the case but the ammo needs to be in a plastic box? Any advice is appreciated.
https://www.tsa.gov/travel/transporting-firearms-and-ammunition

 

[littleboots]

It must be in a locked case with TSA approved locks Don't believe ammo can be with it Check on that In Louisville just get there early tell check-in you have fire arm they will give you a card to sign and put in case. They will check it in and have you wait @15 minutes so you are there in case of questions. This has been the drill in at least 8 airports I have flown out of

 

[EastKy0076]

The airlines are abusive to luggage ! . I would recommend a sturdy case such as pelican or such. I haven't read the TSA guidelines , but your ammo has be separated from each other, no loose ammo in any way .

 

[bird whisperer]

Make sure the ammo is packed in your checked suitcase not the case that is transporting the firearm. Keep mags empty and with firearm. Any hard sided case can be used just make sure you use TSA approved locks. I recommend putting a piece of tape on the lid to ammo box to keep it from spilling in your suitcase.

 

[RLWEBB]

No experience flying with a firearm but just wanted to say that I hope you have a great time and safe travels.

 

[1wildcatfan]

So I’m headed out west for a back country trail ride with my son and some other guys. I’m thinking I would like to have a firearm present. I’ve read the tsa guidelines. Since I’ve never done this…I really don’t want to screw it up. Does anyone have any advice or tips on how to pack the weapon? I was thinking the original case with a secured lock? Do they sell tsa approved cases? I can put the unloaded magazines and ammo in the case but the ammo needs to be in a plastic box? Any advice is appreciated.
https://www.tsa.gov/travel/transporting-firearms-and-ammunition

Probably done it a hundred times, no problems. Locked case, ammo in a separate bag, declare firearm at counter, fill out card and sign, put card in locked gun case, done deal. I always allow extra time in case TSA wants in gun case. They may page you. On arrival, some airports have gun cases come out on luggage carousel, others pickup at airlines customer service desk. I'd put a pistol in my rifle case instead of using a locking pistol case. Makes it much harder for a thief to walk off with.
I don't use TSA locks. Too many people with keys.

 

[EdLongshanks]

Ok so tape the box of ammo up and put it in my checked bag?

 

[120+]

Probably done it a hundred times, no problems. Locked case, ammo in a separate bag, declare firearm at counter, fill out card and sign, put card in locked gun case, done deal. I always allow extra time in case TSA wants in gun case. They may page you. On arrival, some airports have gun cases come out on luggage carousel, others pickup at airlines customer service desk. I'd put a pistol in my rifle case instead of using a locking pistol case. Makes it much harder for a thief to walk off with.
I don't use TSA locks. Too many people with keys.

Sounds like logical advise.

 

[1wildcatfan]

Ok so tape the box of ammo up and put it in my checked bag?

I put my ammo boxes in the boots I pack.

 

[Amos Moses]

You can pack ammo in your gun case with firearm. I packed the ammo in its original box and placed inside the gun case. Invest in a good case such as Pelican. My case has four locking points but I just used padlocks on two of the points. I removed one layer of foam and packed some hunting clothes and gear inside the case. Just make sure the firearm is easily visible when you open the case. I usually transport a shotgun and pistol (no optics) in a take down shotgun case. I have never had an issue with TSA agent, but I would have a copy of the TSA and airline regulations with me just in case.

 

[Amos Moses]

Also, I would not use TSA locks on the gun case. Use standard padlocks. If they need into your case after check-in (unlikely), they will call you to open it.

 

[childersb24]

I just got back from a turkey hunt in Wyoming. As others stated the gun case must be hard sided with a lock and guns must be unloaded. I was told by the Delta lady to put all ammunition in the case with the gun. They will verify that all firearms are unloaded and throw a paper in the case and you then lock it up and give it to them. All air ports are different. Rapid city South Dakota airport took all my guns out and foam and ran a swab on the inside metal. Guess they were looking for drugs or something. I used regular master lock and kept the keys on me the whole time.

 

[childersb24]

Ok so tape the box of ammo up and put it in my checked bag?

No put ammo in with the gun.

 

[Marsh CallUser]

Buy a case that can be pad locked. I believe dual locks are required. Ammo must be in same locked case in proper packaging. A hard Plano ammo box or factory packaging. When you check in, just declare you have a properly stowed firearm that needs to be checked. If it is a pistol, they will open your suitcase, ask to see the box and check the firearm to make sure it is unloaded. If it is a long gun, they will use the same process.

If a long gun, I recommend one of those long Square pelican cases on wheels.

You can check out TSA website for further details.

 

[HeadedWest]

I want to hear the stories of those who flew illegally.