How to fly with a firearm: The complete guide 

First

I have been flying every month with a firearm for almost 10 years now. 1. Have a printed copy of the fire arms policy of the airport / the airline and TSA on you. 2. Never give anyone the key or code for your case. 3. Have extra locks 4. Have your info on the inside also 5. Have a video or photo of your case and what’s inside of it 6. Get there early. TSA suck. 7. Have your serial numbers of the firearms you’re traveling with on your phone also. 8. Have the laws and rules of whatever state you’re going into when it comes with firearms. 9. Don’t be afraid to speak up at a ticket counter if your flight gets canceled and the only way for you to make it to your destination is by having a layover at a state that may not like the firearms you’re traveling with. Think NYC that likes to arrest people that are just going through their airport.

Just used American Airlines. Informed the ticket agent that "All guns were unloaded, and that ammunition was in factory boxes and placed in luggage to be checked". The person at the ticket counter told me that they "Wished TSA was here so they could applaud you". I was asked to hang around a few minutes before going to my gate in case the checkers had an issue. Ticket counter released me in under 10 minutes. Have a hard-shell case - Harbor Freight is fine. Use TSA approved locks so they don't cut them off. All ammo needs to be in either factory boxes or boxes designed specifically for ammunition. Weigh your ammo - they wanted it under 11 pounds. My ammo went in my regular CHECKED bag. NO GUN PARTS IN CARRY ON. I left my locks off until the ticket agent looked in the case. I signed a paper that the guns were unloaded it goes inside - after that I put the locks on. Guns came off separately (not on regular carousel) and were brought by baggage handlers to the ticket counter. Showed that my ID matched the airline baggage tags - then away I went. DON"T BE A DICK AT THE COUNTER.

As someone who’s flown with firearms quite a few times and isn’t worried about it, this still had a lot of good tips to stay on top of things. Thanks guys

I hide my airtag hidden inside the top piece of foam to my case so it is not obvious and easy to remove if someone gains access to my case. It has worked very well, and often I am notified when i get on the plane its there or when it gets loaded onto the plane.

Good video. Yes, always carry the TSA and airline’s policy on transporting firearms with you.

Former TSA here. TSA officers are not allowed touch any firearms at all, only a LEO can touch them. TSA doesn’t sell locks, the airlines might. Also some airlines sell cases too. TSA regulations change often, and a lot of officers interpret those regulations differently than another airport. The airlines have their own regulations on transporting weapons and ammo too. Including weights on ammo. Absolutely make sure the deceleration is in the case. Ammo can not be loose. I was traveling with my pistol, and my one in the chamber made its way into the magwell. This was considered loaded. Don’t ever bring a “loaded” weapon to the airport unless you like your time wasted. Some TSA officers have let me travel with full mags in my mag carriers. So far that hasn’t been a problem.

This was a blessing. Im flying with firearms for the first time in 5 weeks.

1) a lock on each hole isn’t in case one fails, it’s purely so that the case can’t be pried open from that section 2) it’s best to wait for them to clear the case and put the declaration slip in (or taped to the outside as they often do) and send it on its way before going through security instead of going through and having to go back. While many request you open it at the check counter, often they’ll take it to the back room and then come out and ask you to open it 3) Which you mentioned, put an AirTag inside your case, cheap insurance and thefts have happened and are increasing 4) they will residue swab your case and on occasion, your hands. Is what it is, they don’t even know why they do it but don’t be alarmed. 5) sometimes they will take it from the aircraft straight to the baggage claim office, instead of the claim conveyer. If your case doesn’t come out on the conveyer, go straight to the office with your checked slip. 6) Particularly southwest has been cool with loaded mags as it does protect the primer as required, but be sure to check as mentioned.

I have been using air tags for my handgun safe every time I fly. It’s awesome to know where my luggage is. I had an airline send my luggage to another airport and I was able to show them exactly where it was. Made it to where I did not need to sit around while they said “it’s here somewhere”. Also I recommend Vaultek safes in hard sided luggage for traveling with your handgun.

An idea I like to use instead of the tape is adhesive Velcro patches. Stick the soft side to the case, and the hard side to the lock. I use the 10 lb ones at Walmart for like $5. They cling really well, and you don’t have to hold onto a roll of tape. It’s just there. Great video!

I always take multiple pictures before I check my firearms into tsa. Have at least a little proof of what was in the case before I gave possession up.

I just use a ceramic glock and carry it on.

I’ve traveled quite a bit with my CCW while on work trips. Have always had really great experiences. But wow these are some priceless tips… the air tag and printed policies are brilliant. Thanks for the video!

Great info! One suggestion is if your traveling with a pistol is to also include your pistol permits and weapons cards in the case.

What's up y'all! I used to work for TSA and I just wanna say that this video is really good and accurate. I can attest that the firearm portion of the training program is really short since it's not the biggest concern for TSA, hence why most of the officers are super nervous when it comes to screening firearms. reimburse you for the loss or damages

EXCELLENT VIDEO!!! You hit all the points for traveling with firearms, well done! Ammo, make sure NO LOOSE ROUNDS! Excellent on using either original box or the plastic ammo boxes and never stack anything which will give the best image on the baggage X-RAY machine. Doesn’t hurt to give some room apart from what is inside the case. The magazines, empty is always the best! However if you have a cover like a magazine pouch covering the top to prevent a round from getting jarred loose, that is acceptable if not take the rounds out and put them in a storage box. I do like the idea of locks through the ejection port and the magazine tunnel, however TSA Officer’s don’t have the time to put a magazine in the firearm ‘to play around’. Officers are much more professional and responsible than what was suggested. The officer would probably get in trouble as well if observed doing such. However, can we admire someone’s firearm should we have to open the case? I also loved ❤ the idea of using AirTag for tracking your case or any luggage to locate it should it NOT turn up at your destination. Would you happen to know if the thin aluminum firearm cases would allow for the AirTag signal to penetrate through the case? Again well done for this topic and giving the flying public this information! Probably the best I’ve seen on RU-vid. Best to you!

excellent video! now I just need to secure two seats side by side and ask for the belt extender.. hope the armrest goes up-

A TSA lock is a violation according to title 49:, Title 49 says the TSA cannot have the keys or combination to any lock for the firearm case only the owner may open the case! So if they ask for the combo or your keys by law you have to go to the area where the case is and open it for them. So TSA locks would definitely violate that provision!

This was the best video I found regarding flying with firearms. Thank you. I’ll be doing this for the first time soon and this was extremely helpful and insightful.

Another thing I would note is that when you land and go to baggage claim 9/10 times they will not put your firearm on the conveyor belt and it will end up at "lost luggage" to prevent a random person grabbing it and walking off.

Liked the idea of using the additional cable lock. Especially with the tsa now doing these private case inspections which used to not be very common I wouldn’t want tsa dry firing and playing with my shit

Second.

Great vid! I’d use the gaffer tape to tape air tag in empty well. First thing bad guys do on cases we see is toss bag, boxes, cases, instructions and just take the gun…. With the air tag in well :)

This info has been very helpful! Thank you so much !!

Instructions unclear, I’m now in the applicant process to become an Air Marshall. Not sure what I’m doing.

Great video. I think I'd probably sticky velcro the airtag under the foam somehere. Concealed and attached to the case. You can by rolls of velcro with adhesive on the back.

Great info and super helpful. Thank you.

I really appreciate you guys taking the time to share things like this, it is genuinely helpful! You guys aren't even selling anything in these and others in the past, that says a lot imo. You really deserve a lot more views. Thanks again, also Adam should do more collabs if he has time :D

Those combination locks have one of the worst exploits with lock picking. They’re fun to pick too! Once I got into “locksport” I realized all locks are genuinely there to keep honest people out

Another helpful video on this topic is "Packing and the Friendly Skies," a lecture by Deviant Ollam.

Good video, but I have someone who was thinking it was simple to travel across state lines with an NFA items, similar to what you have here, after watching this video. Definitely need to use the Form 5320.20. Although it is the responsibility of the firearm owner, I would also make it explicit that this instruction does not meet all requirements for NFA.

Super solid guys. One of the best videos on this topic out there.

Lots of good information… Thank you!!

16:00 Ammunition per TSA: "magazines or clips for packing ammunition must comoletely enclose the ammunition" - so can add the covers to Magpul AR mags or put loaded mags in pouches fo fully enclose them (ie no loose ammunition falling out of magazine)

Great information. I’ve always been on the fence about flying with firearms. This really presenting the information in a straight forward way. Thank you! Strong flannel game. Which brand is that??

The one time I flew with a hard pistol case and pistol in Canada for an armourer's course, the airline just through the handgun case with a bright ass orange tag saying "FIREARM UNLOADED" onto the luggage container on the other end. I was less than thrilled. Literally anyone could have just walked up to it, picked it up and walked out.

Love these videos and all the good info

Definitely the right direction

Yesterday at Seattle-Tacoma... the guy was pretty militaristic, IMO. "Stand there!", "Don't touch that case!", etc. Anyway, that is fine, until he says, "Never seen that, what is it??!!?" Me: "Smith and Wesson".... but what I wanted to say, "It is like the world's most popular gun." But I held it in... just be polite and get through it. :) He spent a good portion of the time talking about all the TSA people he trains, and how they don't follow his instructions.

Team Room Tuesdays rock 🤟🏻 Please keep them coming

Great tips and advice for travelling with our tools.

These were great tips. Ty

First of all great video, but some advice for you change your lock because they are super easy to bypass/pick.

"shout out to Chad" Thanks Chad

The last time I flew with a (replica) firearm the process was quick and easy. However when I arrived in TX, I was surprised how many people from CA followed because they commented on my roller case with padlocks. Asking if I’m going hunting and how I must be going for dangerous game with such a large case. I was literally in TX for an airsoft event 😂

Just finished up a trip to Utah and Arizona where I declared a firearm. The difference between attendants that know the rules and regs versus those that don't makes all the difference.....leaving Texas was easy, leaving Utah was more problematic.

As an australian I wish I could protect myself hlike u guys can.

Great information

Excellent informational video!! Thank you

Do you have to have your ammo and magazines in a locked case or could they just be in your checked bag that contains your locked handgun case?

Put the airtag in your grip or stock.

Good info and glad you posted it. I'll be flying across the country for a hog hunt next month so this was a good heads up. And ill be using your micro fight rig when im there

Greag video, as always!

Very helpful Thanks

Great video good information

Excellent video,thank you very much! I’m flying with a handgun for the first time this week wanna have all my ducks in a row!

Great content and explanation.

Sooo helpful, awesome content

One of my tip to avoid losing locks and having your cases considered non-kosher is to... get good locks. DO NOT USE MASTERLOCK in any cicumstances.

Can i use the glock case the one that the firearm came in with ? Its a hard case ?

Id even put an airtag in my stock, pistol grip, etc (on the rifle if possible).

Y’all are doing it right

This is the best video I’ve seen on this

Great video…thanks

I read that it was illegal for a TSA agent to open the firearm case. The person who declared the firearm was the only person legally permitted to open the case.

Great Content

I just flew with a firearm. I use two locks and cable the case to the luggage (I've only carried pistols). TSA never trips on the locks. I only get checked by TSA when I pack ammo as well. You can't carry more than 11lbs. They don't weigh it though as long as it doesn't look like a lot they let it slide. Oh and I put the Apache 4800 in luggage I have not traveled with a gun case exposed.

I thought TSA was not allowed to open a gun case without you present and could not cut locks from gun box? is this not correct? all the videos i have reviewed called out don't use TSA locks, make sure you are the only one that can open that box

I would put the air tag in an butt stock compartment or in the bottom of your grip, then your box and the rifle can be tracked and if they remove the rifle from the case you Might be able to track the rifle down if the person that stole it does not know here to look.

Good Info...Can I put a shotgun a rifle and 2 pistols in one case to fly?

Everytime I fly out I usually have my girl wait in the parking lot with original factory ammo boxes just in case lol 😂 oh and Acro on a NF with a badger mount, ultimate flex lol😂

Awesome video 🇺🇸⚔️❤️🔥🤙

THX.......

So you can carry your ammunition with your firearm inside of the hard case?

Never ever ever allow your gun case to be open outside of your person. If you give someone a combination, you’ve basically destroyed all security you had. When you travel, if they want the case open - open it for them. There should be no reason to relinquish your key.

You do not, in fact, "have to have a lock on every hole". Yes, you can always get a clueless TSA agent or airline employee but that is not a TSA rule. The rule is that the locks must prevent access to the contents of the case if it is unlatched. Typically, agents will attempt to fit their hand through the gap into the case. Not discounting your extensive flying experience and I understand that every airport/airline has their own "flavor" or process. Many of the points you raise should be taken as pro-tips but shouldn't be confused with official TSA regulations.

I dig it!

What materials can the case be made of?

Fun fact. For those that can’t fly with guns but want the ability to use strong non tsa locks. Buy a flare gun. Felons can own tsa considers it a fire arm. Toss it in and follow the same deceleration process and now you get to protect your expensive gear. Legal in all 50 states.

Can you put the handgun case inside a normal hard suitcase? Like with clothing and such?

Ok but what about one of those small lock boxes from Walmart? It's just big enough to fit a 9 and some cash? If I have keys? Or: Amazon has a small gun safe for $20, However it's a combination lock, so no lock & key? What about either of those? 🤔

Wonder if I put my AirPods in my case to track it since I have two pairs.

commenting for the algorithm

After I check my case I zip tie the case with thick zip ties as well

I thought legally TSA can only access your firearms case in your presence? How does that part work exactly ?

If you tape locjs, doesbt that interfere with what TSA might choose to do?

Off topic comment: what do you use for the mounting strips under each shelf of your gear lockers in the background?

So if you carry a small firearm in your suitcase do you have locks for it or are they TSA locks

Glory USA God Bless

Where’s Adam get the flannels ? From flannel daddy ?

Where did you get the bag to put your documents in?

Please fix your audio, every video has to be turned to max volume to hear you.

I carry a Christened ✨🗡️ Custom Engraved Katana for Undead (Werewolves and Vampires/ Ghouls/ Revenants/ Zombies of the known clubs OTO, Knights Templars/ Roman Catholic and Freemasons), Swiss Switch Blade and Taser while flying international

Do not use masterlock 175 style combination locks or any other masterlock on anything you want to keep secure.

Can some give me a list to get through from Nc do Maryland without harassment ? I would appreciate greatly thank you in advance please respond

What about flying in to California, or any state with strict laws? Will TSA re-screen your firearm once you land to make sure it's compliant? Would hate to get the green light in one state just for your gun to get pulled when you get to another.

Question, am I able to transport more than one firearm in a single case?

These videos are fuckin awesome! I approve lol 🤘🏻

Flew from Washington to Louisiana back in 2014 and American lost my guns for 3 days