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Shinesintx wrote:I have flown MANY times with loaded mags that are locked up. I was informed today that this was illegal also.

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Travelers may not use firearm magazines/clips for packing ammunition unless they completely and securely enclose the ammunition (e.g., by securely covering the exposed portions of the magazine or by securely placing the magazine in a pouch, holder, holster or lanyard).

Ammunition may be carried in the same hard-sided case as the firearm, as long as it follows packing guidelines described above

McKnife wrote:

Once you locked the case, how did TSA get access to your firearm?

Im still confused how and why TSA opened your case.

One you declare and lock your case at the ticket counter, it cant be opened (or inspected) by anyone but you.

Did you lock the case?

Not trying to be critical of you, im just confused.

McKnife wrote:I'm confused by your encounter with TSA. Everytime I've flown with a checked firearm, I had it locked in a pelican case with a non-TSA rotary lock so NO ONE could get in without my one and only key.

When you check your luggage, you are supposed to verify its unloaded and fill out a declaration card. Once you locked the case, how did TSA get access to your firearm?

I was under the impression that TSA is not allowed to open the case or handle your firearm whatsoever.

What am I missing?

Another thing, I think that's a civil fine, not criminal. No way would I ever give TSA anything.

Shinesintx wrote:Yes, I verified that it was unloaded. The problem, is with the word "unloaded". What does it mean? To me, loaded means that the weapon is unchambered....and so therefore, I assumed my gun was unloaded. TSA does not see it this way.

BigTexas wrote:Thanks for sharing. It's a great story to share in my CHL classes.

You are very lucky they didn't shut down the airport and have you arrested, strip searched and water boarded. (said with tongue securely planted in cheek)

Travelers must declare all firearms, ammunition, and parts to the airline during the ticket counter check-in process.
The firearm must be unloaded.
The firearm must be in a hard-sided container.
The container must be locked. A locked container is defined as one that completely secures the firearm from being accessed. Cases that can be pulled open with little effort cannot be brought aboard the aircraft.
Travelers should remain in the area designated by the aircraft operator or TSA representative to take the key back after the container is cleared for transportation.
TSA must resolve all alarms on checked luggage. If a locked container carrying a firearm alarms, TSA or the airline will make a reasonable attempt to contact the owner. If contact is not made, the container will not be placed on the aircraft.
Travelers must securely pack any ammunition in fiber (such as cardboard), wood or metal boxes or other packaging that is specifically designed to carry small amounts of ammunition.
Travelers may not use firearm magazines/clips for packing ammunition unless they completely and securely enclose the ammunition (e.g., by securely covering the exposed portions of the magazine or by securely placing the magazine in a pouch, holder, holster or lanyard).
Ammunition may be carried in the same hard-sided case as the firearm, as long as it follows packing guidelines described above.
TSA prohibits black powder or percussion caps used with black-powder.

These regulations are strictly enforced. Violations can result in criminal prosecution and civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation.

schufflerbot wrote:from the TSA website:

Travelers must declare all firearms, ammunition, and parts to the airline during the ticket counter check-in process.
The firearm must be unloaded.
The firearm must be in a hard-sided container.
The container must be locked. A locked container is defined as one that completely secures the firearm from being accessed. Cases that can be pulled open with little effort cannot be brought aboard the aircraft.
Travelers should remain in the area designated by the aircraft operator or TSA representative to take the key back after the container is cleared for transportation.
TSA must resolve all alarms on checked luggage. If a locked container carrying a firearm alarms, TSA or the airline will make a reasonable attempt to contact the owner. If contact is not made, the container will not be placed on the aircraft.
Travelers must securely pack any ammunition in fiber (such as cardboard), wood or metal boxes or other packaging that is specifically designed to carry small amounts of ammunition.
Travelers may not use firearm magazines/clips for packing ammunition unless they completely and securely enclose the ammunition (e.g., by securely covering the exposed portions of the magazine or by securely placing the magazine in a pouch, holder, holster or lanyard).
Ammunition may be carried in the same hard-sided case as the firearm, as long as it follows packing guidelines described above.
TSA prohibits black powder or percussion caps used with black-powder.

These regulations are strictly enforced. Violations can result in criminal prosecution and civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation.

American Airlines wrote: Ammunition in its original packaging from the manufacturer is preferred, however it will be accepted in fiber, wood or metal boxes, or other packaging specifically designed to carry small amounts of ammunition. Loose ammunition or clips will not be accepted.

Delta Airlines wrote: Ensure small arms ammunition is packed in the manufacturer's original package or securely packed in fiber, wood, plastic or metal boxes and provide separation for cartridges.