How to Fly with a Gun | Episode #96 

I work at an airline. I wish my company would put a link to your video to teach people how to travel with firearms. At least 10 times a day at the airport I work at get denied or arrested due to what you have said in this video. Bravo my friend!!!!!!!

Toss an Apple AirTag in the luggage or firearm case too. Piece of mind and easy ability at your destination to locate your bag (if it’s coming up to the baggage carousel or it’s headed to the airlines baggage claim office).

I flew from ATL to ISP (Long Island NY) on Frontier with a handgun in my checked luggage. I put my Beretta with the action open and a cable lock in a hard case, double locked with 2 TSA approved locks that I got at Home Depot. I walked in the terminal and asked a TSA agent if I should check in with him. He directed me to the check in counter. I told the Frontier agent that I was declaring a firearm in my checked luggage. He asked me to open the luggage so he could check what I had done, put a tag on it then directed me back to TSA who thanked me and took my bag. I claimed my bag at the luggage carousel at ISP later that day.

Love the content. And I can say as a Federal Officer I can carry in any state. However I am required to go through the same steps no matter my status. And being calm and well prepared is always your best bet.

Great video! I’m a disabled 9-11 first responder, NYPD Detective. As a kid I carried a plastic BB gun in my waist onto a plane, like John Wayne , no issues 🤣.

See you in AZ in March from Seattle. Done this many times and only time I got pulled back was for the TSA agent to compliment my firearm and thanking me for my packing diligence. If you follow the rules the TSA will be super friendly. 👌

Recently I had to fly and on my carry on bag had a single .22lr round. Wasn’t a big issue with the TSA crew that was working that day. The gentlemen asked me what I wanted to do with it and just told them they could keep it or toss it. Good fellow threw it away no issues and wished me a great flight(which I did with the blessing of the good sir wishing me such 😎). All I took in my check in was changes of clothes and a solid fixed blade.

Probably the most comprehensive and systematic video I have seen on travelling with firearms. Thanks for taking the time to do this. Much appreciated!

Flying with a firearm is so easy. I was super nervous the first time. Now as long as I’m able to carry in the state I’m going to I’ll always take my gun. The best part is when you get to your destination there is no waiting at baggage claim. Just go pick up your bag from the airlines desk.

I live in Hawaii and fly inter island frequently. Everything you mentioned was spot on in my experience all these years of flying with a firearm and ammo. I’ve only ever had one instance where things got sketchy. The ticket agent insisted I pull out my AR from its case right there at the counter with hundreds of people around to cycle the action to she her the rifle was not loaded, I tried to just show her but she insisted I pull it out and show her. So I did as requested and got a LOT of looks. I was just waiting to be swarmed by airport police but it was uneventful. Thanks for all you do man, we don’t have access to much training here in this very antigun state so I very much appreciate all your videos. I find myself watching them over and over often. I really appreciate what you do. One day I would absolutely love to take a full handgun and carbine course from you. Again, Aloha and Mahalo! 🤙🏽 Eric

Thanks so much, recently bought a small handgun cause of an assault in Louisiana that we experienced (I live in Texas) and has caused me and my wife to get our concealed carry licenses. This video helps us feel secure with flying with out handguns to help us feel like what happened to us will not happen again.

Awesome vid, thanks for making this! Yes, they may not know their own rules. I assisted in training TSA as a contractor in the past and sadly some willfully ignore the rules and will cause a lot of trouble. Nice to put a flare in the case, that way the whole luggage can’t be opened. Not sure if that still exists as a hack that photographers used to use to stop TSA theft of gear.

I found that it's cheaper and better depending on my destination is/was to send them either UPS or FedEx. If I'm going to a given hotel or hunting lodge I arrange to send them there.

Thank you for the video! About 6 months ago was the first time ever that I have flown with a gun. I hadn’t watched your video yet at that time. I went to American to check in (in Texas) and the lady checking in beside me also had a gun in her checked bag. She was telling the agent she had a gun. Agent said she didn’t think they allowed that. She told her, “Yes, I do this same song & dance with you every time.” Agent still didn’t seem convinced. So I decided to take a different approach. I looked at my agent and said, “I have an unloaded, secured handgun in a TSA approved locked case in my check bag.” She looked at me, said ok, and took my bag and put it on the conveyor to send to the back. She asked me to sign or fill out nothing. She didn’t put anything special on my bag. I picked up my checked bag at the baggage claim conveyor belt with everyone else’s bag when I arrived in Maine.

I used to work for Delta. I loved getting passengers with firearms. It was a change from the normal check in!

First off, thank you!!!! This will be the vid I refer people to from now on when they ask me how I travel with firearms, love how well put together this is and I basically do everything the same way you show here and it has worked well for me since I started traveling with firearms a few years ago. Also, I had a similar issue with a box of 9mm Ammo being in my carry on though I had double checked the bag I did a poor job and missed a pocket, I discovered this after arriving so security unfortunately missed it (fortunate for me as I could’ve been in big trouble if they wanted as I was in the wrong, although it was accidental it was still my fault & responsibility), since then I completely empty my bag before packing so I can be 100% certain it’s clear. Lastly, I personally like to allow an extra hour when I travel with firearms because like he said, each airport is a bit different so some are much quicker than others, the longest wait I’ve had was around 50 min, it’s usually less than 20 min but not always.

I travelled for work. Never had a problem checking in my carry pistol. My biggest concern was having a layover in a nasty state like NY with a cancelled connection , a flight diverted to such a place for an emergency or the company flying me from one job to another in a nasty state. Fortunately, it never happened in 25 years of traveling. I did have my old Case pocket knife confiscated on a flight to Tokyo and to my surprise it was mailed back to me 4 months later. That $12 knife has sentimental value and has been in the safe for 20 yerara

I dont live in the USA and dont ever intend to use/carry/own a firearm. but i wanted to watch this to understand how its regulated and how pepole interprit it. your video was really well done.

I had a smooth experience flying out of Chicago's Midway airport on Thursday - just as you described, I informed the ticket agent that I was flying with a handgun, I completed the 3x6 card which asked for my name, address, and phone number, she proceeded to ask me to show her the case in my bag to be checked, which I did, and that was it! I needed ONLY to insert the card atop of the case and she proceeded to place my bag onto the conveyor belt to move to the secure side, I did not even have to carry it over to a second agent as I've had to in previous instances.

THE BEST, MOST DESCRIPTIVE TUTORIAL!!! Thank you, very much. Other videos don't compare to the important details/tips you've shared!

I do it the exact same way as Mick except I use a chamber flag to hold the slide open instead of a cable lock and I have clear self adhesive packing envelopes stuck to the top and bottom of the case the firearms are secured in. The bottom one has printed rules and regulations as well as my name, cell number and flight number. The top one has the empty firearm declaration and I write my name, cell and flight number on it. I also use a safe that allows for a cable lock attachment so I can secure the safe to my suitcase interior extended handle when traveling and to a seat mount in a rental car once I am at my destination.

Just checked mine literally 20min ago! Keep it coming! Tight lines! -Capt. Knotty

Mickey great stuff just to let everyone know TSA says you have to have a lock for every lockable hole. Like your rifle case has four holes .... four locks...

This video has cleared up about every question I had about this process 100% recommend to anyone who isn’t sure the do’s and don’ts of flying with a firearm

I'm about to fly for the first time with my firearm. This was very detailed and informative on how to properly check your firearm. Thank you for making this video, I was nervous on how to take the proper steps and after watching this video I have a lot more confidence.

Great video. I just went from PHX to IND with my sidearm for the first time! I followed ALL TSA rules!! Hard sided gun case, Declared to ticket agent I had an unloaded firearm I wish to place in checked bags, TSA approved locks, smooth as silk boarding plane. Got to Indy, waited longer than necessary due to staffing shortages (🙄) retrieved bag from carousel but luggage lock was missing. Contents still safely inside, including firearm in hardsided gun case. Great experience and will change type of lock, but definitely carrying my unloaded firearm from now on!! Oh and when flying into Indy, Don't recommend American Airlines...

I have a question and tale for you. I'll tell the tale first, which follows into the question. I heard a story of someone who was flying to Pennsylvania, and he had a firearm that was properly checked. I don't know if he was returning home from an area where he was using this specific firearm or headed to Pennsylvania to use this firearm. His flight was redirected to a New Jersey airport, where this firearm is not compliant, and when he landed at the airport, he was arrested for owning a firearm that was not in compliance. Now, here is my question. What could he have done to prevent being arrested? He never had any intention of going to NJ, but he was still arrested.

Definitely double check. I missed a loaded mag in the bottom of my backpack that I had for carry on at Dulles near D.C. They called police and filled out paperwork and they took my picture. Thank God the officers were really cool and they realized I just missed that mag in my pack.. they did keep it, but thats fine with me considering...

I remember when I first flew with firearms. Just turned 21 and was going to pick up a new pistol from my brother and I was bringing my own rifle as well as bringing him a rifle. One hard case, two rifles, a few loaded mags and unopened boxes of way too much ammo stuffed in the crevices 😅. I was super concerned and stressed over it but it’s really truly easy! They had a laugh about the amount of ammo and weight but the weapon was secured and mags removed. I have of course upgraded my travel kit for firearms but do it every time I travel now. I don’t personally put cable/barrel locks through my weapon often, but I do occasionally. I’ve moved towards high density foam cut outs in pelican style cases so it makes having space for locks not always possible for my firearms. Just make sure to put it in a hard case every time and make sure it’s one that allows for key locks (common misconception is it needs to be a “TSA approved lock” ONLY. This is not the case. TSA approved means they have keys to it. Many dislike those specific locks for that reason alone). Just have those keys readily available because TSA will take them from you during an inspection. Biggest thing is to make sure you don’t pack away a loaded weapon. Whether that be loaded magazine in the weapon or one in the chamber. THAT is best way to catch some grief…or worse. The magazine itself can have ammo in it and even be in the same hard case, just NOT inserted into the weapon. And of course, ready and secure your firearm for travel before you leave home, only walk into the airport with a locked and ready for travel hard case. Don’t be fumbling around with the firearm in the line while you wait for the bag people 😂. All you need to do is walk in and get in line like everyone else. Once you get up there simply let ‘em know you have a firearm and they’ll get you through the rest pretty easily. They’ll have you fill out a specific note card looking thing and next is where it may differ. In TX, I’ve always been told to simply go to an area off to the side and wait 10 minutes. If I don’t hear my name or nobody comes out to get me then all is fine and I can head to my flight. But, in AZ, a TSA agent is called over and he takes the case(s) and escorts me to an enclosed area and hands it off to another agent or agents and they inspect it right there while the guy who escorted me stands close by. This is always cool because I get to watch the process and how they handle my stuff lol. I remember one time there was a newer TSA agent swabbing my hard case and inspecting the weapon and she never removed the empty mag from my rifle. Her superior asked her what she missed when she said she was done and she had no clue. I quietly whispered she never removed the mag to check if it was loaded and the superior started laughing with me. But after that’s done they simply say ok and send you on your way and TSA gets it back to your airline to pack away. It’s really not meant to be this huge interrogation about “wtf you think you’re doing bringing a gun here?!?” You’re 100% allowed to travel with your firearms. The most important part is double checking your airlines policy just in case it differs/ adds on to those of TSA and also check your destination. Big big part for us concealed carriers that travel with our EDC set up and really any owner. Make sure you can actually have your weapon where you’re going. Check reciprocity with the state you’re visiting, check local gun laws, etc. Highly recommend reading up on TSA’s info ( www.tsa.gov/travel/transporting-firearms-and-ammunition ) before flying. And then simply googling your airline name and *firearm policy* to be double sure. Even to this day, nearly 2+ years of flying with firearms, I still check their site before flying. Always smart to double check for changes or announcements. Because in the end if something goes wrong, it’s probably gonna be on you, not anyone else. Just remember we are all human and make mistakes and TSA isn’t the enemy. I once carried a full 50 round box of ammo into security… I made the mistake of doubling my range pack as my daily bag that trip and uh… needless to say I’m lucky TSA was having a good day. Lady walked me back to the baggage desks and I was able to check my backpack and even keep the ammo! Edit: I typed this out before watching and I’m glad to see my tips and knowledge on it appears to be spot on with your vid!

Great content. I pack the printed guidelines from the respective airline and TSA websites with the firearms in the locked container for easy access and review for all involved in the transportation and inspection process.

Thank you for being a voice of reason in the pro-gun community, shorter and more clear than reading and comprihending TSA documents.

Southwest and frontier u can have the mags with ammo in it as long as it’s not in the firearm

This is the best video ever. You actually show by example instead of talking about the rules.

This is a great video, thank you .. I've often thought about why different states have different laws concerning 2A, the airlines present a second level of the same problem.. CONFUSION.. full spectrum, from the keeper and bearer, to the officers of regulation and enforcement and the various agencies they work for. In my "opinion" .. it would seem too easy, for ALL states, ALL local enforcement, and travel agencies to adopt the SAME EXACT RULES as they apply to these subjects of 2A concern. LITERALLY destroying any confusion that crosses state lines, and or agency borders, along with private airlines themselves. A single streamlined set of rules abided by , by all involved across the board.. would single handedly remove the problems that arise from them, causing confusion..and ultimately irregular holdups and delays in every interaction. I've seen many a video where clearly an LEO had originally trained in one state, and then transfered to another, and continued his or her career in law enforcement, but were completely oblivious to the destination states laws. Causing pretty serious jam ups on the street level interactions.

Very timely for me as I am traveling to Phoenix for a pistol & rifle class next month. Lots here that I understood differently, so I’ll head to SWA website for their straight skinny. I am glad that when I ordered 1500 rounds of ammo for my classes that I had it shipped to my family in Phoenix. The only thing you didn’t cover were the special locks that can be opened by the TSA. I have a set that will not allow them to remove their key until the lock is locked again. Thanks for all the great information that you provide.

Thank you for this great video, very informative and helpful

Thank you. Best point “ I just want to get from point A to point B with my weapon”

I fly with a gun on a regular basis. The advice here is right on. He did not address TSA locks. I use them. They have a combination and can be opened by a TSA agent with a TSA key. I put a TSA lock on all my checked bags. That way only a TSA agent can open them and keeps the sometimes questionable baggage handlers out of your bags.

Excellent video. Wish this was available a few years ago. It can be very stressful your first time packing your firearm and ammo properly and taking it on a trip.

I'm already familiar with all the regulations but the tip about keeping the locks off until the declaration goes in 👍

I use a cable lock and attach it to gun case handle and spine of my suitcase

Do you recommend securing your case to your luggage (from the inside)? Great video and explanation.

I would also recommend tethering the firearm case to the inside of your suitcase and lock, for an added level of security.

LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS VIDEO guns are controversial enough without having to talk about traveling with them I love how this video is information based and no personal feelings/beliefs mixed in it It's a great example on how informatic videos should be made

What do you think about using TSA locks, which the TSA has keys to open cases?

Excellent video. One question, do you lock the outside luggage case, if TSA or non TSA lock? Thanks for the help.

Thank you, about to travel and this made it absolutely easy as pie, truly appreciate your knowledge!

Just view your video, OUTSTANDING. One of the best and most comprehensive video I have ever seen.

Awesome video. Just traveled for the first time with my weapons. Had a small snag not having enough padlocks at first. After that, it was smooth sailing. I’ll definitely make sure to add flags for my chamber, or take the time to break them down in the future in case I run into a real stickler!

Great video and information. While you touched on it, you must know the firearm laws in the state you are traveling to and legally be able to possess said firearms in that state. One should pay particular attention to the safe storage, transport requirements, magazine restrictions and restrictions on types of firearms. Additionally be careful about picking up your checked luggage during an extended layover due to a missed or cancel flight, weather or other unforeseen event as you must be able to legally possess the firearm in that state or city. Finally many don't realize that you should NOT use a TSA approved lock. Only the firearms owner is suppose to be in possession of the key or combination and TSA approved locks don't meet that definition. Thanks again for the great coverage on this topic.

Not planning to fly anytime soon but your info is good to have indexed and stored in the cranium grey matter.

Great video and information.

i bought a case made for air travel (think it wss bulldog or something like that), had a built in port for airline security to open and a combo lock .. i field stripped my G19 and put a box of ammo in the case and had zero problems travelling from detroit to vegas ..

Thanks for the great video. Followed your instructions and my first experience could not have gone any smoother. Nashville to West Palm Beach Fl

Great information. I always wondered how difficult this process may be. Thanks

I used to work for AirTran back before they got bought out. One of their requirements was that ammunition must be in a separate bag. No ammo in the same case/bag as the firearm.

Thank you so much for this video! Best and most clear explanation of how to properly travel with a firearm and what to expect. This is my first time so I truly appreciate the help!

Traveling for the first time with a firearm...v. informative video. Thx.

I am not intending to get a firearm, but this video was educational. Researching and understanding the laws can save time and conflict. I like the "Be Polite." More people should apply that daily.

is the luggage with the locked pistol case supposed to be locked as well? I'm getting conflicting information.

Great video...thank you.

Thank you for the video and walk through. I traveled post 9/11 with a pistol but the process has changed a little and this was a great refresher.

Great presentation of the content. Thank you! I think I'll be travelling with a firearm soon and this really outlined the process.

Thank you so much for this video! When I came across it and saw it was thirty minutes I though it was too long, but honestly it is the best informative video on you tube. Thank you sir!

Absaloutly important for everyone who travels with firearms. Please follow the law and rules. They are there to keep everyone safe. Happy travels.

I usually end up flying American Airlines and I have been told by them repeatedly what LE and other qualifying individuals can carry firearms on the planes as long as the captain doesnt have an objection. However, they fail to tell you that TSA always has an objection so it doesnt matter. Also, TSA is not a private business.

Whatever Airlines you are flying with you let them know you have a weapon to claim then you go into the TSA area they will tell you to open your gun box and then they will inspect if it's not alright then you won't be able to fly. The ammo has to be in the box that the ammo came in or it has to be in a box I know because this happened to me yesterday my first time of carrying a weapon on a flight and it didn't go so well I was turned away

This is wild to hear. I’ve flown a lot with guns and never had to deal with gate agents asking to open gun bags or been called back. I’m generally on Alaska Airlines flying in the PNW where maybe this is more common.

Great video I agree with u on all u said. I’m from Canada 🇨🇦. I do not travel with any firearms but I know people that do. Some of them had bad experiences and some of them had good experiences travelling from Canada to the USA and back and forth.

Flying international is on another level

I don't know why, but I got nothing but good vibes from you

Probably responsibility also lies with the airlines and their staff. Carriage of fuel is limited. A chain saw can be carried as luggage as long as it is absolutely dry of fuel. Gun powder or other propellants are dangerous materials. Whether it be Ni cad batteries or quantities of ammunition these are also a risk.

Great video!! QQ...I am traveling with a Vaultek Lifepod, so limited space, and was thinking about just using a barrel flag vs the lock. Would the xray machine see that flag when it goes through (or have you ever done it that way but you will no longer due to an experience)? Thanks again for the info.

If one cannot handle some safety rules, then that person should not be allowed to operate a lethal weapon in the first place.

Thank you, you have answered all questions and I learned things I didn't know...

Great video sir! I really appreciate that you stress being respectful and calm. It amazes me how well that actually works. The non cluttered case is a great way to simplify the process. I’m guilty of not having an easy the X-ray case the few times I have flown with a fire arm.

Traveled from SFO San Francisco national Airport worried about tsa hassling me but they were great

THANK YOU!

Flying tomorrow. Found this video extremely helpful

Very informative and excellently done. Thank you!

Great training. Thank you. Create and follow a system. Works for me every time.

Perfect timing! Headed on a trip soon so this is very helpful.

Very nicely done. Thanks!

Love this!! Really needed this video coming up for a trip!!! Thanks

How can you travel in and out of New York with a firearm?

Thank you. Lot of very good/sound info. Appreciate you doing the trial & error research for us.

Best video I've seen. Thanks for all the info

Great information and you have expanded everything very will… lets travel

Mickey, on the Vaultek - train for efficiency, not speed. ;)

Thank you very much for this video!!

Piece of cake. Try going to a nuclear power plant with a semi truck. Two check points, metal detectors, sniffer, open ALL of your compartments on truck including hood, then you have an escort for all of it including in your truck with an AR around their neck. Then on the way out all of the above again along with a Geiger counter before you get to leave. Whole process takes about 45 minutes each way. Thank god I get paid by the hour. Keep up the good work. I like watching your videos.

This was really informative. Thank you for the advice.

Great video. Do you secure the luggage also after putting the hardcase inside it?

Great video I really appreciate it bro this answered so many questions and has helped me out tremendously

I hated it because in my station we had to get a PSA and if they were busy we had to wait for them and it held the passengers up. Every station has different little rules.

Luckily whenever I just HAVE to fly anywhere, I mail my firearm ahead of time to contacts and they pick me up at the airport and they hand me gun stuff. Helps to have contacts where ever you go :D

Thnx 4 the info! 💥😎4 EHT MHTIROGLA👍🇺🇸

Great video! Love the preparation and planning!

Smart man. Informative content. Subscribed.

Can two unloaded handguns be carried in the same locking case, along with multiple unloaded magazines?