Finally a better Flying with Firearms Answer

[Lowlight]

It's not a great picture, but you should be able to read it,

I was coming home from AK with a rifle yesterday and saw a new posted sign by the TSA / Firearms room with a better explanation for how to handle yourself and your equipment when flying,

The main takeaway is the part about the Key and whether or not they will go into your case with or without your presences,

So now you know and all the idiots who flew twice a year versus my monthly trips can clearly see, yet they will go into your case, and the fact they will cut your locks, (which I have seen) and then not let it fly.

I use TSA locks for this very reason, but I have been at the Gate and missed the announcement to call me back, TSA save me the hassle. As well, in Aug, they did not call me back to hand over a key, (Non-TSA locks) until just about 10 minutes before I was due to board. I had to give my key to the gate counter, and they went down the jetway to inspect the rifle and then brought my key back. Had I been wearing my Noise-canceling headphones I would have never heard them.

These rules have been the closest to my personal experience

 

[sea2summit]

So I TSA lock the case but I use a cable and real lock inside the case locking all the guns together and when possible looping it around something on the case. Too many guns disappear after "inspections"

 

[Diver160651]

I used TSA locks (with regular locks on the case just incase) at SFO this weekend on my way to Wyoming. SFO is about as messed up as you can get.

The TSA agent and the separate firearm gate check agent said TSA locks are fine. He mentioned they don’t care what we use, but if they need to do a secondary inspection for some reason, they will cut the non-TSA locks off and there could then be issues.

Long story short they confirmed your post

 

[PrecisionParks]

What are the best cases for airline travel in terms of durability, security and protecting a precision rifle from getting knocked out of whack during the trip?

 

[Zeroit]

TSA locks are a must! the wife does way more flying with firearms than I do. She would be my go to girl if I had a question. Strange but true but she is an Aries and If I do something wrong she will be the first to point that out.

 

[Ramius]

What are the best cases for airline travel in terms of durability, security and protecting a precision rifle from getting knocked out of whack during the trip?

I use Storm cases. They were bought out by Pelican few years ago. Pelican cases are good just heavier. I found the Storm/Hardigg line to be a little lighter.

 

[Racer88]

You guys are putting TSA locks on the GUN CASE? Or the suitcase containing the gun case? The TSA rules explicitly prohibit the use of TSA locks on the gun case. The rules posted above are the same as they've always been for many years.I've been doing this for years. I use regular locks on the GUN case and NO locks on the suitcase. I also use a cable lock to secure the gun case to the frame of the suitcase. The only locks I've had cut are TSA locks on the outside suitcase. Every time. That's why I don't put any locks at all on the suitcase. But, I've never had the regular locks cut off the GUN case.

Here is my rig:

 

[Lowlight]

you're dead wrong

The TSA does not prohibit the use of TSA locks and in fact encourage it

Stop spreading bs

Plus what suitcase holds a rifle case, duh

 

[DavidK]

Ammo is supposed to be in a separate case, no?

Why disassemble the pistol?

 

[Crang]

What are the best cases for airline travel in terms of durability, security and protecting a precision rifle from getting knocked out of whack during the trip?

Been using one of the 20 years and it should last the rest of my life- its a tank. Been on countless flights. After 20 years I could probably change the foam out but its not pressing enough for me to gt around to yet.

Kalispel Case Line | Kalispel Tribe of Indians

The Kalispel Tribe of Indians works to preserve their rich cultural and natural heritage while strengthening and serving the surrounding Pend Oreille and Spokane County communities.

www.kalispeltribe.com

 

[zeroz]

If they are now encouraging TSA locks on guns that is a new thing. It says right there in the yellow highlighted section "only by you", meaning not a TSA lock.

On rifle cases (which is all I fly with) I put 2 TSA locks and 2 real locks. United absolutely says no TSA locks on firearms. In the case when they re-inspect (once in many times) they cut the real locks but let it fly because it had 2 TSA locks. My dad worked baggage for Continental/United for 30 years. He said that is the "sure" way to get guns where they are going. Usually the TSA checkout agent says the TSA locks are overkill but then I tell the story of the real ones getting cut once and they agree its a good move.

Also I always go early and never walk away from the gun until the agent has come, opened and checked it out.

 

[Lowlight]

I am a gold level flier with United and use TSA locks,
It does not say in yellow not to use TSA locks

In fact at the TSA gun room in Denver it says to use them right in front of you.

More ignorance run wild I am amazed you can navigate a city street

 

[Lowlight]

I flew United to TN where there was NO Option to check your rifle before, they took it at the counter and I was called at the GATE just before the flight because they needed the key for my non TSA lock I used on that trip.

I had to hand it to the girl at the gate counter who took it out the jetway and to my bag in order for it to make my flight.

TSA is NOT a person it's an agency

 

[308pirate]

Ammo is supposed to be in a separate case, no?

No, it's not. Read the rules. There are several ways to fly with ammo. Not only is an ammo box legal inside the pistol case, so are loaded magazines as long as they are covered (a mag pouch works) and they are not inserted in the pistol. Flown that way with a handgun many times.

Why disassemble the pistol?

Personal preference. It's not required and I never do it.

 

[308pirate]

If they are now encouraging TSA locks on guns that is a new thing. It says right there in the yellow highlighted section "only by you", meaning not a TSA lock.

Firearms must be unloaded and locked in a hard-sided container and transported as checked baggage only. As defined by 49 CFR 1540.5 a loaded firearm has a live round of ammunition, or any component thereof, in the chamber or cylinder or in a magazine inserted in the firearm. 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

Transporting Firearms and Ammunition | Transportation Security Administration

www.tsa.gov

Can we lay this fucking debate to rest once and for all?

 

[Lowlight]

Denver TSA gun room

and the keys for the TSA locks are sitting right on the counter where they open them

 

[JWHITE]

I wish they all did it like Denver does. Denver leaves no question. Airline agent walks you to that room and there is no question whether your good or not once you leave that point.

The ones where they put the piece of paper on and sent it away always worry me.

 

[_Windrider_]

I’m just going to say that @lowlight is right. As someone who does this for a living and as much as I hate the TSA, the TSA locks are your best option unless you like to get to the airport with 2 sets of locks and 3 hours before departure.

 

[GBMaryland]

Ok,

So the airlines that I’ve been traveling on specifically tell you not to use TSA locks...

I dont know if something changed, but i have it writing on an older Notice that says the same.

I typically dont use a case that anyone identifies as gun case, and I usually leave from an airport that has a rather large 3D Xray and has NEVER opened or asked to open my case after it was inspected by the airline.

Now, returns have been all over the place...

 

[Racer88]

you're dead wrong

The TSA does not prohibit the use of TSA locks and in fact encourage it

Stop spreading bs

Plus what suitcase holds a rifle case, duh

The rule says that ONLY YOU should have access. With TSA locks, you're not the only one with access. Anyone with a TSA key has access to TSA locks. I'm not spreading BS. Take it easy with the pejoratives, eh? I've researched this extensively, not to mention having practiced it for many years without a single "incident." I've never had the locks cut on my gun case. Not once. No incidents or issues of ANY kind in the many many times I've traveled with a firearm.

So, it had been a few years since I went to the TSA website, and it appears they've changed things up a bit. But, what they've got is self-contradictory. The first underlined part is the same as it has been since I first researched it.

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.

So, they STILL say that only the passenger should retain the key or combination to the lock. But, then at the end, they've added that it can be a "TSA-recognized lock." That's new as far as I can tell (at least "new" since I last looked). I'm assuming that means a "TSA lock," which means OTHERS have a key to the lock. Self-contradictory. But, OK... you can use TSA locks, apparently.

I'm pretty sure I have an old printout from the TSA site that doesn't have that last bit about TSA locks being OK. I'd have to dig around to find it.

That all said, I have found each airport has its own variation of the check-in process. With some, I've had to "escort" the suitcase to the TSA scanning room. With other airports, the ticket agent just threw the suitcase on the conveyor belt behind them (like other luggage) telling me they'd call me if they need me. I've never been called.

I've been to that very room at the Denver airport and watched them open my suitcase, and then scan it. I had the regular locks (as seen in the photo) on my gun case. They didn't open it, nor did they ask me to open it. For some reason, they swabbed the outside of the case (testing for explosive residue, presumably). They gave me the "all clear," and I was on my way. I've been through Denver airport a few times with a firearm.

The funny thing about TSA locks is that the idea is the TSA folks have a "master key" for them. Every time I used TSA locks on the outside suitcase, they were cut. Go figure. They have a key, but they cut them. So, I quit locking the suitcase.

 

[_Windrider_]

Ok,

So the airlines that I’ve been traveling on specifically tell you not to use TSA locks...

I dont know if something changed, but i have it writing on an older Notice that says the same.

I typically dont use a case that anyone identifies as gun case, and I usually leave from an airport that has a rather large 3D Xray and has NEVER opened or asked to open my case after it was inspected by the airline.

Now, returns have been all over the place...

Airline policy rarely varies, but Always check with your airline. However, the airlines can only be TSA plus. They can’t go easier than TSA.

Regardless of airline policy, if you cannot or are not present when they inspect your gun and they can’t unlock, they will cut the locks. Period. Then once the airline gets it and it’s not locked, guess what it isn’t going on the plane. I don’t know why this is such a huge debate. Bring TSA locks and don’t stress. Use your own locks and either make time to be present to unlock it or risk the locks being cut and the rifle not making the flight. Its up to you.

Edits because I missed a key word, it’s now underlined.

 

[kthomas]

Every airport and every airline seems to have their own individual rules for how firearms are handled.

It's awfully confusing, and sometimes I think individuals working at the airports and airlines make up their own rules.

Every time I've flown with firearms has been a different experience.

 

[V-Ref]

Airline policy varies. Always check with your airline. However, the airlines can only be TSA plus. They can’t go easier than TSA.

Regardless of airline policy, if you cannot or are not present when they inspect your gun and they can’t unlock, they will cut the locks. Period. Then once the airline gets it and it’s not locked, guess what it isn’t going on the plane. I don’t know why this is such a huge debate. Bring TSA locks and don’t stress. Use your own locks and either make time to be present to unlock it or risk the locks being cut and the rifle not making the flight. Its up to you.

This is an excellent post for those looking to travel with their weapon to read and reread.

Do you care more about your itinerary? Use TSA locks.

Do you care more about the security of your weapon/gear? Use your own locks.

 

[_Windrider_]

Every airport and every airline seems to have their own individual rules for how firearms are handled.

It's awfully confusing, and sometimes I think individuals working at the airports and airlines make up their own rules.

Every time I've flown with firearms has been a different experience.

The standard for most airlines is they want you to open the case while it’s locked to see if a hand can be slid in. That’s pretty much it. The variation comes in what happens next. Some airports have the agents take the case right there and then it goes to TSA for inspection (it will get inspected). Some airports have you take it directly to TSA then TSA sends it to the bag room. They don’t verify how much ammo you have they ask but you can lie. TSA doesn’t either, but they can (don’t give them a reason to be anymore of a pain in the ass than they already are).

For the most part, airline policy is equivalent of TSA policy. It’s the airports that are the issue. That’s where the variation lies.

 

[Racer88]

They don’t verify how much ammo you have they ask but you can lie. TSA doesn’t either, but they can (don’t give them a reason to be anymore of a pain in the ass than they already are).

Interesting... in all the times I've done this, I've never been asked about the ammo. Though, as seen in my photos above, the ammo is obviously (?) in the single ammo box in my case.

When I first started traveling with a firearm, the ticket agent would have me open the gun case (and throw the ticket INSIDE) before I locked it up. More recently, they don't have me open the case and tape the ticket on the outside of the gun case.

To be clear, I'm talking about a pistol in a Pelican case that goes inside a suitcase... not a rifle in a stand-alone Pelican-type case that doubles as its own "luggage."

 

[_Windrider_]

Interesting... in all the times I've done this, I've never been asked about the ammo. Though, as seen in my photos above, the ammo is obviously (?) in the single ammo box in my case.

When I first started traveling with a firearm, the ticket agent would have me open the gun case (and throw the ticket INSIDE) before I locked it up. More recently, they don't have me open the case and tape the ticket on the outside of the gun case.

To be clear, I'm talking about a pistol in a Pelican case that goes inside a suitcase... not a rifle in a stand-alone Pelican-type case that doubles as its own "luggage."

11 lbs per person is the legal limit. Obviously caliber changes how much that is which is why they don’t ask because they aren’t gonna weigh it. It can be transported in a separate or the same case, it just can’t be loaded in the firearm. Loaded mags are ok.

 

[Racer88]

11 lbs per person is the legal limit. Obviously caliber changes how much that is which is why they don’t ask because they aren’t gonna weigh it. It can be transported in a separate or the same case, it just can’t be loaded in the firearm. Loaded mags are ok.

Yes... I'm familiar with the limit. I've just never had to contend with that issue, since I don't travel to competitions where I might need a bunch of ammo. I just travel with my EDC and the ammo that goes with it. But, I've never been asked about ammo.... probably because it's obvious I'm not near the limit.

 

[kthomas]

The standard for most airlines is they want you to open the case while it’s locked to see if a hand can be slid in. That’s pretty much it. The variation comes in what happens next. Some airports have the agents take the case right there and then it goes to TSA for inspection (it will get inspected). Some airports have you take it directly to TSA then TSA sends it to the bag room. They don’t verify how much ammo you have they ask but you can lie. TSA doesn’t either, but they can (don’t give them a reason to be anymore of a pain in the ass than they already are).

For the most part, airline policy is equivalent of TSA policy. It’s the airports that are the issue. That’s where the variation lies.

First time I flew with firearms, which happened to be with an ar15 and a sig pistol, I had to take both firearms out of the case at the airline counter and prove clear. Certainly was some raised eyebrows in the crowd behind me. Most of the time though they just want to place that orange card in my case.

One airline told me I had to call in ahead of time to bring in a firearm (news to me, never had to do that before with them). Same airline weighed my ammo, but that occured at a different airport. Most airlines just ask what the ammo weight is.

At my destinations, sometimes the firearms arrive with the oversized luggage. Sometimes I have to receive it at the baggage center for the specific airline. Sometimes it is hand carried out of a door and they check my ID. Sometimes it comes out on the regular luggage carousel.

No single time has been the same.

 

[Racer88]

OK... I was pretty sure I'm not crazy, and I pride myself on NOT "spreading BS" or being "dead wrong."

The TSA has changed their info over the years. I used the "Wayback Machine" to find some older versions of the TSA webpage on transporting firearms, with specific attention to the locks.

From 2016:

Present day:

So, we were all "right." Like I said, I first started traveling with a gun many years ago. And, when I did, I got all the info, and even printed it out to have with me while traveling. Two copies, actually. I'd have a copy of the TSA page AND the airline's own rules in the suitcase, and another copy of each in my carry-on. I know back then, they did NOT want you to use TSA locks on the gun case. That has apparently changed. I'm still going to continue using my matched regular locks. But, maybe I'll throw some TSA locks in my carry-on just as "insurance."

 

[_Windrider_]

First time I flew with firearms, which happened to be with an ar15 and a sig pistol, I had to take both firearms out of the case at the airline counter and prove clear. Certainly was some raised eyebrows in the crowd behind me. Most of the time though they just want to place that orange card in my case.

One airline told me I had to call in ahead of time to bring in a firearm (news to me, never had to do that before with them). Same airline weighed my ammo, but that occured at a different airport. Most airlines just ask what the ammo weight is.

At my destinations, sometimes the firearms arrive with the oversized luggage. Sometimes I have to receive it at the baggage center for the specific airline. Sometimes it is hand carried out of a door and they check my ID. Sometimes it comes out on the regular luggage carousel.

No single time has been the same.

Word of advice, if an airline agent asks you to remove the firearm and verify clear at the counter. Kindly and respectfully refuse unless there is a police officer present so you don’t get shot.

That is absolutely not ok.

 

[Racer88]

First time I flew with firearms, which happened to be with an ar15 and a sig pistol, I had to take both firearms out of the case at the airline counter and prove clear. Certainly was some raised eyebrows in the crowd behind me.

I remember those days, too. That's why I set up my Pelican case foam to hold my EDC in a field-stripped condition. See photo in my previous comment. (I often get asked about that when I post that photo on forums.) I didn't want a recognizable "gun" to be gawked at by the folks in line behind me. Even the agents would look at the gun parts and say, "I guess it's clear."

 

[zeroz]

I said right in my post that if TSA locks are encouraged it is a new thing. Two months ago at the TSA kiosk in C. Springs the agent told the guy in front of me he had to leave and get non TSA locks for his gun to fly. As I stated, I would suggest having both kinds of locks as you never know what you'll get. It avoids the hassle of having to get a manager, leave and get locks, etc. If its ignorance to be ready for whatever TSA throws at you then I guess I'm spreading ignorance. Can somebody give me a ride to the airport, can't find my way.

 

[MadDuner]

With modern screening equipment - they can easily tell if it’s loaded or not. There is no reason to show an airline employee anything other than your signed declaration of firearm, and that declaration states it is unloaded.

 

[powdahound76]

Denver isnt bad.
The dude who “escorted” me to the gun room and then back to the counter to check the bag was a little turd last time.

Anchorage is much easier to fly out of with a firearm in my experience.

 

[Jcbusaf]

What is the best airline to fly with when you have to bring a firearm?

 

[TXBO]

The policy at one airport don’t settle shit. The policy says locks that only you can open. Enforcement is inconsistent.

 

[seansmd]

The law is clear, TSA locks are good to go, and if you don't and they need to get a hold of you to get inside the case you run the risk of you and your weapon missing the flight.

These rules can change tomorrow, in our interest to know the latest and adapt.

 

[seansmd]

The policy at one airport don’t settle shit. The policy says locks that only you can open. Enforcement is inconsistent.

Your wrong did you read the TSA post above that IS the TSA rule, not one airports version.

 

[TXBO]

Your wrong did you read the TSA post above that IS the TSA rule, not one airports version.

Believe what you want. It’s inconsistent.

 

[seansmd]

Believe what you want. It’s inconsistent.

Ok, should I believe the posted TSA regulations or some guys on the internet.....

 

[Racer88]

What is the best airline to fly with when you have to bring a firearm?

In my experience, they're all the same. What's different is the airport's procedure for getting your firearm luggage to the security screening.

Though, I've heard some airlines (like Delta) recently started zip-tying the suitcase zippers closed and requiring you to go to the luggage claim office to retrieve your suitcase (rather than getting it off the normal baggage claim conveyor thingy with all the other luggage. This was a response to the Fort Lauderdale airport shooting. I have not flown Delta in a while, and I've not yet had this particular experience.

 

[TXBO]

Ok, should I believe the posted TSA regulations or some guys on the internet.....

I wouldn’t believe me. I’m nobody.

 

[TACC]

In my experience, they're all the same. What's different is the airport's procedure for getting your firearm luggage to the security screening.

Though, I've heard some airlines (like Delta) recently started zip-tying the suitcase zippers closed and requiring you to go to the luggage claim office to retrieve your suitcase (rather than getting it off the normal baggage claim conveyor thingy with all the other luggage. This was a response to the Fort Lauderdale airport shooting. I have not flown Delta in a while, and I've not yet had this particular experience.

This is what delta airlines made me do when I flew back into ft laud from Kalispell montana in may 2019.

 

[BytorJr]

I remember my first time flying and carrying a firearm going to a training class. Had a really nice Pelican case. I made it to the DFW area just fine; but when I came back, the TSA agents were gaga over my case. (This was around 2006). I used TSA locks and all. Problem is, those TSA locks have to have the key to lock (at least mine did). The agents apparently did NOT secure the locks because when I landed in TPA out came my Pelican with no locks!!! One can imagine the look on my face and my ghost white appearance, especially as I connected through Detroit. I took my case, went to a corner and cracked it open just enough. Low and behold it was still there!!! I minor miracle.

Next time I flew I checked in and the agent at the counter was like..."Dude...what are you doing flying with TSA locks. I told him I thought you had to and he quickly denied that and said as long as you provide the key, you're golden. " That was in 2008. Obviously, I'm now a little timid about flying and checking in firearms. So I appreciate the post and discussion.

 

[j741]

My experience has only been with Alaska.

About 3 years ago during the TSA inspection the office noticed I had TSA locks on the case and he told me I needed to go by some real padlocks (thankfully a baggage store at the aiport sold them) to put on the case, he would not sign off on the TSA locks. Since then I've used regular padlocks but always have a few TSA locks in backpack.

Departing Seattle: Check in at counter, get checked bag tag for rifle case. Told to take it to TSA inspection area. Agent there asks me to open it, he checks it all out and tells me to lock it back up. I lock it with non-TSA locks after asking him if thats OK and he says yes as it's already been inspected. He takes care of it from there.

Departing San Antonio: check in at counter, given bag tag, asked to wait to be taken to baggage inspection room. Takes 20 mins for someone to show up. They ask me to open case, they check it out, and tell me to lock it back up. Same as in SEA, I ask if OK to lock with non-TSA locks and told yet. He takes it from there.

Departing Anchorage post AK PRS class: check in at counter then walk over to baggage check where two TSA agents are sitting. One is confused by the suppressor as to why its in the case. Other takes way too much time explaining. They then say to lock it up and say its OK to use non-TSA locks. They take it from there.

On arrival to SEA/SAT/ANC: Have to see baggage rep to show ID to collect rifle case

 

[Diver160651]

If they are now encouraging TSA locks on guns that is a new thing. It says right there in the yellow highlighted section "only by you", meaning not a TSA lock.

On rifle cases (which is all I fly with) I put 2 TSA locks and 2 real locks. United absolutely says no TSA locks on firearms. In the case when they re-inspect (once in many times) they cut the real locks but let it fly because it had 2 TSA locks. My dad worked baggage for Continental/United for 30 years. He said that is the "sure" way to get guns where they are going. Usually the TSA checkout agent says the TSA locks are overkill but then I tell the story of the real ones getting cut once and they agree its a good move.

Also I always go early and never walk away from the gun until the agent has come, opened and checked it out.

Read my post out of SFO - it is a United Hub, I flew United although I prefer Alaska - the gate agaentvwas United, TSA are the ones that inspect, even if on United.

 

[broncoaz]

Interesting discussion. My pistol safe in the suitcase is a combination lock, never had an issue in over 100 flights.

I just got a new Pelican 1700 case for my rifle build (folding stock on the chassis). I was planning on regular combination locks as I don’t care for keys. My thought reading through this thread, if one prefers to use non TSA locks, could you include another set of locks for the TSA to reinstall post inspection if they cut yours? Would they be smart enough to figure it out?

 

[Faronth]

Due to a previous job that required me to throw a proverbial dart at a US map and travel there on short notice I have flown with firearms hundreds of times. By my count to 40 plus states give or take a few. I have been through many of the airports mentioned in this thread. My last set of flights were last July, fortunately that was for a well needed vacation.

I have never used a TSA lock. I always used regular keyed pad lock. I have never been asked to by an airline or TSA agent to use a TSA lock. I have never had a lock cut on any of my gun cases.

About 98% of the time I was just raveling with .45 for personal protection but I would haul out long rifle cases when traveling for a hunt. I always use soft sided luggage and put my .45 in a hard-sided case inside the luggage. I fill out the declaration tag and drop it in the hard-sided case then lock it up, usually with the airline agent watching, then zip it up and they take it. I never put locks on the outside of my luggage.

Normal procedure is to wait in the area to give TSA time to receive your bag and be able to call you to come unlock it if they choose to physically inspect the case firearm ect… That varies by airport some, but the basic procedure is the same. I always arrive a couple of hours early for a flight, since 9/11 anyway, so I don’t care if they take extra time for inspection.

I have not been asked to take a firearm out for inspection to insure it is unloaded in well over a decade. That stupidity seems to have stopped. I would refuse now with out an officer or TSA agent because I don’t want to get shot (as mentioned previously in this thread).

I have been asked about ammo on occasion, maybe three out of four times but I never carry more then 50 rounds, usually only 24rds for three mags so I never come close to the max on ammo. Please note the specific airline policy on quantity of ammo allowed before flying. In my exp the airlines have different policies covering that regardless of TSA max allowed. Best not to be arguing what the TSA rule is with an inexperience ticket counter agent who only knows airline policy if that. If you need a lot of ammo where you are going ship it in advance.

What was new on my last set of flights was in two airports they took my locked case and tried to pull it apart with the lock on and see if they could still stick their hand in. I had foolishly used the gun case my new S&W M&P .40 came in with a pad lock on it. Never again. Case was too flimsy but after a short discussion with the lead TSA agent that had been called, he approved it for travel. I told him thank you and that I would never travel with that case again. Get a Pelican 1170 and don’t look back.

One last thing. I refuse to ever travel through NY airports or Logan ever again. Google what can happen if you try and check your firearm at one of those airports or pick one up after landing there.

There for what it’s worth in my experience flying with firearms in the US.

HTH

 

[AIAW]

eys just keep the innocent out anyhow! If someone truly malicious wants your goodies, they have brute force or also these on the after-market:

I worry about random airport security assholes carrying away nice gear, but I guess the whole ass-rape prison thing holds most back.

 

[Mr.BR]

Had my locks picked and undamaged by security number times often they leave a note why it was opened ,but generaly in Europe they are quite polite about it , also had gear flown to wrong destination and returned a day later ,they actualy sent a shuttle to deliver.
In most airports i have been gun cases were handled separate of any other lugage so never had much fear of bad handling ,but of course you never know once the cases get out of sight LOL.

i dont see why they would ask you for a key ,small padlocks are simple enough to pick, i mostly used an over the counter locks i am quite certain were not TSA jet they always picked them without damage.
TSA lock doesnt require lock picking as they have dedicated masterkeys for them. (could be my locks were TSA approwed but i kinda doubt is as i bought them at DIY stores or supermarkets

But yes stories from friends flying guns around US are far more ghetto, broken locks and even intentionaly broken cases forcing people to buy new on the airport to be able to contiue .