How to Fly with a Gun | Episode #96

[@rclark76]

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).

[@paula.lleyne8812]

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!!!!!!!

[@CarryTrainer]

Thanks

[@sergeykhachaturov9397]

Is there a chance of that luggage getting “lost” or come up missing if someone wants that luggage with a “gun” tag on it for themselves?

[@precision_jokerr9554]

You do it ..just start showing ppl

[@coachvolpato]

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.

[@mikereese15]

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

[@jmvasq65]

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.

[@ix4g63]

Your agency can send you for a training class so you can carry on the plane and not have to check your gun.

[@nathanzavala4288]

I was about to say that. Because I’m a federal Agent and I’m allowed to fly on the plane with my duty weapon and do other things that most if not all people can’t do. Now it’s not without some sacrifice with training and being at a camp/academy for months on end with paramilitary training it takes a toll I saw many of my classmates hurt my self included as well many leave with something broken and unable to continue training and have to leave home. As well many many failed classes and were sent home as well. Out of 55 students less than 35 percent of us passed about 12-18 I forgot how many of us graduated it was a small class.

[@gerardobarron2678]

@@nathanzavala4288 why was it too intense or what?

[@nathanzavala4288]

@@gerardobarron2678 you don’t pass your exam you can’t continue most people can’t handle the stress of studies and police work at the same time. As well you live on base for 6 months it’s hard for people with children and wife’s. I was a normal person just out of college studies wasn’t hard for me due to having a degree in Law but others it’s difficult. Its what u make it honestly keep your mind straight and you won’t have any issues second guess your self and that’s when the issues arrive

[@robpayne4572]

What type of federal officer are you

[@rayblaine606]

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. 👌

[@NYBorn519]

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 🤣.

[@mitch9063]

ha

[@bookreaderlabarr]

Former paramedic and now I carry everywhere I go. Especially traveling

[@EeZ3-808]

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

[@johnborges8231]

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.

[@johnborges8231]

@eSack oh my god you wild man! 🤣 well it could have gone badly but I’m glad nothing happened lol

[@leoleopantsonfire2660]

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.

[@derekglenn3865]

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.

[@jimryan633]

How do you check which states you can carry in ?

[@derekglenn3865]

@@jimryan633 USCCA has a map that will tell you which states your carry permit is good in.

[@johndavidtackett]

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.

[@blackwolf22303]

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.

[@tedbaehr1862]

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

[@michaelgonzalez409]

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

[@dougwest1523]

Great video and information.

[@CarryTrainer]

Glad it was helpful!

[@oldschool6798]

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.

[@lukeschwierzke7630]

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

[@5upgunplay551]

Tsa lock or no? What about lay overs in restrictive state? Didn't answer alot of questions.

[@lukeschwierzke7630]

@@5upgunplay551 you want non tsa pad locks that are only large enough to lock the case not so large that a gap large enough to fit things through and only the owner has the combo/ code to, for the lay overs as long as the firearm doesn't leave the airport its fine this may sometimes mean that the tsa must hold them for you in the case of rescheduled flights ect

[@chltmdwp]

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

[@trc3341]

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.

[@harrisoncrosley2131]

How did it go?

[@nelsonprendergast9655]

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

[@Meanee-d1o]

I will have to travel on Delta with my firearm later this year. I am a frequent traveler (Platinum Medallion), but checking my pistol makes me worried that the agent will be clueless. Any tips on that?

[@BetrayedJay]

@@Meanee-d1o Honestly man, the best thing this person can recommend would be to watch the video you replied to a comment on 🙂

[@ReelAttitudeFishingRK]

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

[@that21yearoldweedsmokingfa85]

Did you put a padlock on the suitcase that you put the locked case in?

[@ReelAttitudeFishingRK]

@@that21yearoldweedsmokingfa85 I didn’t about two weeks ago. I’d say put on one it to be safe. Charlotte NC made a big deal about that. If it happens at the airport, keep your cool and ask if they have a lock you can purchase. Most do, just a little pricey.

[@seahawks51LT]

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

[@carycoplon5681]

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.

[@sweetsilence4682]

Can you mail your own firearms yourself if your moving to a different state?

[@carycoplon5681]

@@sweetsilence4682 I'm not sure about the mail, but check with FedEx and UPS. I've shipped firearms with each of them to vacation destinations.

[@georgeserrano9430]

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

[@Drinson]

Thank you for this great video, very informative and helpful

[@wileycoyote19]

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...

[@thomasjefferson1081]

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

[@randomstuff508]

I'm about to have a layover in LGA. If that cancelation happens, im straight up refusing to take my bags. If I have to...then I'm driving all the way to Virginia lol.

[@David4Cats]

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.

[@quinnmclaughlin7537]

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

[@cyberlycans4191]

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.

[@chief121]

If you don’t mind me asking, what airlines?

[@zeitgeist888]

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.

[@garrett4971]

You don't have to have a cable lock or chamber flag, correct? The layout I have for my case wont leave enough room to put one in.

[@zeitgeist888]

@@garrett4971 No you do not have to. I do it because it shows on X ray that the gun is unloaded and is obvious at a glance to anyone looking at it during check in. The chamber flag I use is orange and very low profile that fits in a very slim lockbox safe. You could also use bright plastic coated cable like used for clothes line and run it through the barrel sticking out of the chamber/ejection port. The metal would show up on X ray and partially hold the slide out of battery while being quite visible.

[@justinsmudde2554]

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

[@richardwebb371]

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...

[@shapeshifter52001]

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.

[@WestTXisGr8]

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.

[@Embrxceyourdemons]

This is the wrong way to do that. You are supposed to pick up your luggage from baggage claim as if anyone stole your bag they would have access to your weapon.

[@triggersnob9722]

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

[@patrickmcguirk4001]

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...

[@johndavidtackett]

I’ve heard that too but not had an issue as long as the case has zero flex when you try to get in while locked. Better safe than sorry tho, it’s easy to add a couple more locks compared to missing flights!

[@CarryTrainer]

From TSA When traveling, comply with the laws concerning possession of firearms as they vary by local, state and international governments. If you are traveling internationally with a firearm in checked baggage, please check the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website for information and requirements prior to travel. Declare each firearm each time you present it for transport as checked baggage. Ask your airline about limitations or fees that may apply. 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. Bringing an unloaded firearm with accessible ammunition to the security checkpoint carries the same civil penalty/fine as bringing a loaded firearm to the checkpoint. You may find information on civil penalties at the Civil Enforcement page. Firearm parts, including magazines, clips, bolts and firing pins, are prohibited in carry-on baggage, but may be transported in checked baggage. Replica firearms, including firearm replicas that are toys, may be transported in checked baggage only. Rifle scopes are permitted in carry-on and checked baggage.

[@WHOisCOLEMAN]

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!

[@richiev63]

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

[@Dan-bj1cz]

Hey Mickie Do you have TSA locks on your luggage case

[@RENO_K]

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

[@soundwavenk]

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

[@2WheelsTN]

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

[@floridajim3023]

Excellent presentation, thank you !!

[@bradyboy1952]

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

[@jtam70]

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

[@palebubble61plays86]

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.

[@Emsh10n]

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!

[@eliashernandez4425]

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

[@RoadWarrior77]

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.

[@thedude883]

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

[@jonvanwyk2026]

It's a violation of 49 CFR § 1540.111(c)(2)(iv)) to use TSA approved locks on a case containing firearms. It doesn't matter what a screener says. While their website says you can use TSA locks OR non-TSA locks, their website is not correct, and does not carry the force of law, nor does it override 49 CFR § 1540.111(c)(2)(iv). They must call the owner to unlock the case. If they say otherwise; be kind, patient, and professional while asking for a supervisor. Further, if you happen to also be transporting Title II firearms, it's also a violation of 26 U.S. Code § 5861(d) for the TSA to access the case without the owner present.

[@linosantiago2235]

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

[@exp1993]

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!

[@j9soundlabs719]

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.

[@j9soundlabs719]

For clarity, I'm not proposing that each state, adopt the level of security that airlines do.. I'm suggesting that each state align with each other, each airline align themselves. As well as local law enforcement (*political security) offices. *Reference GCA68 amended 1986 (the ban)

[@cody4925]

Smart man. Informative content. Subscribed.

[@karstgeo7290]

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

[@gaslandrights1745]

Do you put a lock on your suitcase too?

[@odub9747]

Thank you very much for this video!!

[@j.knepper7601]

THANK YOU!

[@MrJahsoul1]

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

[@lefty1024]

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

[@peterjcanales12]

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

[@ManuelLopez-li7in]

Great for the explanation

[@Logan2070]

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.

[@mav2757]

Very informative and excellently done. Thank you!

[@RyanPetty]

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

[@samuelrobinson7893]

Thanks for the video

[@basedgenxer]

Thank you for this info.

[@troyelder56]

Great video! Love the preparation and planning!

[@DropsOne206]

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

[@Lightning613]

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

[@faerieringwildlifeandmore]

great info

[@adamvantreese9521]

This was really informative. Thank you for the advice.

[@iabnharper2384]

Soooooo helpful thanks!

[@lucky15driver]

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.

[@AdamJ917]

Great video!

[@mikew3781]

Great video. Thank you!

[@HillbillyMusings]

Excellent video sir..

[@travismunn4323]

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

[@novisnick6928]

Great information, as always! Thanks somuch

[@irishnoah0689]

Thanks

[@lauriea2971]

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.

[@MrGtino74]

Great video

[@Soldier4life-H5]

Thanks for this very informative video. This is rlly good stuff

[@luckydl7650]

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.

[@CarryTrainer]

I like all of that, but the rule on the locks is not accurate.

[@luckydl7650]

@@CarryTrainer You are correct a TSA approved lock can also be used. Should have stated it as a recommendation for better security.

[@mwm1960]

TSA locks all use the same key and that key is freely available for any thief to steal your guns. But if they want to steal no hard case or expensive locks will stop them. Shipping with UPS is more secure.

[@6284bernard]

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

[@MaMa-qh4dy]

EXCELLENT and clear info! Thank you.

[@ChamberEverything]

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

[@kodybauers7390]

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

[@markb.1259]

Excellent video Mickey!!!

[@fcguy7]

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.

[@gotmoneyent85]

Thank you for the info love the video

[@daveevans7151]

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.

[@CarryTrainer]

Should work great

[@ASPINWITHFIN]

Flying tomorrow. Found this video extremely helpful

[@eddieayala2997]

Great advice thank you !

[@FreedomFisher410]

Very helpful. Thanks

[@shooter23231]

Great video, answered many questions I had regarding this.

[@JulietRomeo-t4c]

I would always subtract 10% when it comes to ammo weight for packing purposes, if their scales are off or if your scales are off, it can cause issues if you have to buy ammo at your destination, it’s not the end of the world missing your flight is a lot worse than buying ammo