How to fly with a firearm: The complete guide

Today we discuss how to fly with a gun / firearm; with things to consider to avoid push back from the airlines, trouble with TSA, and ultimately avoiding the possibility of missing your flight. We hope you enjoy this complete guide - Fly safe!
00:01 Introduction and Regulations
00:51 Storage Container Options
2:50 Type of Lock You Should Use
6:25 Tape Tip
7:16 Contact Information, and Labeling Your Bag
8:07 Firearm Considerations / Configuration
10:03 Documents
12:30 Tracking Your Bag
13:20 Packing Your Ammo
16:00 Prepping Your Magazines
16:39 Closing Thoughts
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Thanks for watching!
Spiritus Systems

[@SpiritusSystems]

First

[@motorboat3478]

damn he fast

[@photohuntxdaboi8098]

lol

[@erichironsson8592]

If you aren't cheating you arent winning. Lol

[@laytonaschauer3675]

The real tip of the spear

[@deranathonarkantos6712]

I call hax!

[@aaronkeener95]

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

[@jaydubs6354]

Really Good tips but as far as #2 goes, Policies are changing. Tsa used to state that you are never to give anyone access to lock combos or keys. They have since amended that because tsa can and will take your case to a private area without you present and inspect your shit. Like it or not thats the rules they’re now playing by. I would probably request an on staff leo at the airport accompany them for this inspection as added security but knowing the tsa they’d probably tell me to pound sand and I either allow it or don’t fly. Personally never had it happen to me thankfully flying primarily United and south west my firearm check ins have all gone surprisingly smooth. My friends however have been given that same ultimatum that they will have to let tsa inspect their stuff in a private room. Like Adam said these tsa agents and gate agents 99% of the time have no clue wtf they’re looking at. I like to fly with my suppressors for the added benefit that If shit gets stolen or tampered with one of the few things the atf does well and actually is helpful with is stolen nfa items they take that shit pretty seriously

[@michaelgreen7511]

Great info! I especially like number 1 and it has helped deescalate issues with number 2. CFR49 "1540.111(c)(2)(iv)" explicitly states: The container in which it is carried is locked, and only the passenger retains the key or combination. That CFR has NOT changed and even with the last update, 11/14/2022. I had two TSA agents telling me they were going to call a supervisor and I calmly said, "that would be a great idea" and when the supervisor showed up, I showed him the CFR and he said he was familiar with it. He even asked the other TSA guys why they were not.

[@jwhiskey242]

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

[@labeans4978]

Do not use TSA locks. They are not allowed to open your case without you present. Nobody is allowed to open or handle your firearms but you. If they do they automatically committed a felony and you can sue their pants off.

[@bryanh5631]

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

[@SpiritusSystems]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for the love

[@noellbishop4560]

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

[@twitchc6c723]

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

[@M1garandforthewin]

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

[@chrisspiritus9043]

It can nerve-wracking the first time, but it doesn't need to be! Just follow the rules and you'll be fine.

[@Spigglicious]

ME TOO (Oklahoma) how did it go for you?

[@user-dw4cv3xq5u]

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

[@patrickavondale8653]

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

[@RprtBak]

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

[@michaelgee7509]

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

[@ThePunderfulCounselor]

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

[@Minutemen.Initiative]

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

[@michaelwoods6754]

Excellent informational video!! Thank you

[@WingWalker7]

Great tips and advice for travelling with our tools.

[@dr.turkey458]

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

[@ptas4426]

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

[@floridajim3023]

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

[@SpiritusSystems]

You're so welcome!

[@rosscarlson2964]

Great info and super helpful. Thank you.

[@SpiritusSystems]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jlew6890]

Team Room Tuesdays rock 🤟🏻 Please keep them coming

[@joecarlson5418]

Very helpful. Thanks for the info.

[@whatchutalkinboutwillis7001]

Great information

[@coolcalmboogie]

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

[@jjw8671]

Lots of good information… Thank you!!

[@SpiritusSystems]

You bet!

[@TheCivilWarriorProj]

Thanks for the content. I enjoyed it.

[@smithjeffrey1985]

Love these videos and all the good info

[@SpiritusSystems]

Glad you like them!

[@kiddowenproductions8152]

Sooo helpful, awesome content

[@TeardownSystems]

Definitely the right direction

[@ConvertibleCreed]

Very helpful Thanks

[@benjohnson5552]

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

[@genalphaarms6440]

Great video good information

[@johnswick2303]

Great video…thanks

[@ahmadcampbell2626]

Great Content

[@BatColonyEvictor]

Great content and explanation.

[@SpiritusSystems]

Glad it was helpful!

[@mattbroct]

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

[@BearAndTheOutlaw]

Y’all are doing it right

[@mariuszjod7861]

Greag video, as always!

[@SpiritusSystems]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@ungerjs90]

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

[@Tinker.Studio]

I just use a ceramic glock and carry it on.

[@SpiritusSystems]

No you don't

[@peanutarbuckle2879]

Damn, those cost more than I make in a month.

[@Tinker.Studio]

@@SpiritusSystems you got me

[@lukezifilippo363]

No Russian

[@NOPEFROG]

@@peanutarbuckle2879 German engineering bro

[@jaydubs6354]

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

[@harmandeepsingh6598]

Awesome video 🇺🇸⚔️❤️🔥🤙

[@byronmiller4743]

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

[@chrisspiritus9043]

Awesome info! Thank you!

[@FIRSTSPEAR1]

Second.

[@ErikAndersonNorthStar]

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

[@joby30]

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

[@SpiritusSystems]

Always

[@teller1290]

Permits and weapons cards? My state has no permit requirement. What is a weapons card? Thx.

[@tonysopranooo1]

u don't need any of that to transport a gun on the plane.. ur not carrying

[@meerrmoney]

@@tonysopranooo1can you declare an unregistered firearm at 18 that’s not necessarily in your name but is legal?

[@jaredadamson7196]

I dig it!

[@eckertk]

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

[@simplybaran3377]

I think Arc'teryx

[@keeman540]

Nice name.

[@mouthbreather280]

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

[@save2a4all]

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

[@cody4873]

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

[@MrTylero28]

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

[@joseRodriguez-pk9ld]

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

[@redbluehot]

THX.......

[@kurgerbing982]

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

[@teller1290]

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

[@ThePurpleRayne]

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

[@tylerreis7627]

This is the best video I’ve seen on this

[@RayR0041]

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

[@Cortexian]

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

[@TheOVprodigy]

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

[@jeffschultz8817]

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

[@yinyang5225]

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

[@kadariusbryant3271]

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

[@Dan-bj1cz]

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

[@grinch5979]

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

[@RP-ks6ly]

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

[@Ikmtyou2337]

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

[@teller1290]

Change it...when? You mean different locks each time you fly?

[@Ikmtyou2337]

@teller1290 no I mean use a different type of lock because that type of lock is very easy to bypass.

[@065Tim]

Put the airtag in your grip or stock.

[@genalphaarms6440]

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

[@afj3rd]

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

[@loganburke659]

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

[@ericwright3382]

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

[@theodore7477]

"shout out to Chad" Thanks Chad

[@melissaweathers7225]

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

[@caleb.w]

These videos are fuckin awesome! I approve lol 🤘🏻

[@ZenAkita]

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

[@2AToday]

Which make and model of suppressor is on this rifle?

[@SpiritusSystems]

Deadair Sierra 5

[@johnporter9752]

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

[@LeifyGuy]

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

[@baubowers2529]

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

[@macsstrengthandvigor198]

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

[@freedmansjournal]

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

[@orangeamberSD]

What part of the luggage do you attach the cable to? Also, do you use regular TSA approved locks on luggage?

[@freedmansjournal]

@@orangeamberSD I cut a hole in the plastic board in the bottom of a duffle bag. Also in smaller suitcase looped the cable around the pole for the handles that extend. No TSA locks. I have only had to open my luggage once because I had a fair amount of ammo. When you check your bag wait just in case TSA wants to check so you don't go through security twice.

[@orangeamberSD]

@@freedmansjournal super helpful! Thank you!

[@JrFreak300]

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

[@Difficult_Dan]

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

[@flyingfortress4819]

According to the TSA, yes. But check with your specific airline as the rules may differ

[@nocks8438]

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

[@teller1290]

You guys voted it away after a school shooting 25 yrs ago. Just like NZ more recently. I saw video of grown men in line handing in rifles because of a now forgotten nobody, 32-yr old pm told them you must. Made me sick on both counts. I always thought if America started seeking that I could find refuge in Australia. That changed my mind 25 yrs ago. And nothing done about it since, despite at least one or two conservative prime ministers being in power in that period. God bless Australia. Americans a long time ago died for Australia because they're great people and our friends. The way things are going in this world and in U.S. makes me sick.

[@ryanburbridge]

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

[@HeathLCK]

I need a Fat Strap in Multicam. Can you guys help me out??

[@SpiritusSystems]

www.spiritussystems.com

[@duncantreadwell8041]

commenting for the algorithm

[@PendulumMapTarotLightWorker]

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

[@Alphonselle]

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

[@turdferguson2863]

FUCK kosher we porkin it up

[@JRMoore]

Abus is an excellent alternative for a couple bucks more. The Master 175 combination locks shown in this video are far better than their keyed locks and I'd consider them a solid choice for this application--they're tough enough that the case itself is the weakest link.

[@Alphonselle]

​@@JRMoore I agree with the Abus part, but please don't advise peeps to actually use the master 175 for gun flight case. I could give it a light bonk with the bottom of a plastic water bottle and it would open the lock. A lock with crappy security is fine, nobody is going to pick it; but one so vulnerable to brute force, in an enviroment where airport workers are going to play catch with your case, "less than ideal" is putting it lightly.

[@JRMoore]

@@Alphonselle Respectfully, I think you're missing the forest for the trees here. Yes, someone who knows what they're doing can pop a 175 open pretty easily. Would it be any easier than jamming a prybar through the shackle and twisting to break to the real weak link in the security, the case lug? Almost certainly not.

[@Alphonselle]

@@JRMoore My apologies for being snarky on earlier comment. I understand your point, but I think you are misunderstanding mine. Of course, if a person is determined to get in there, it's going to be a cakewalk with a pry bar. What I meant to say is that the 175 is extremely prone to being unlocked by bumps, which will inevitably happen; sometimes you'll be lucky and see your case on the carousel, missing a lock or two; sometimes you'll get a phone call saying that it was detained because 'you didn't lock the case properly', or whatever the response might be. All I am saying is that something superior in term of bump resistance is much, much preferable.

[@denissobolev9801]

Glory USA God Bless

[@chrisspiritus9043]

Thank you.

[@payneio5404]

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

[@davidabernathy3197]

Lol based off Adam’s recent flight experience

[@IsaacLicharowicz]

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

[@chrisspiritus9043]

Yes this is true sometimes, but we are making this video for the lowest common denominator. I got to watch with my own eyes as a gate agent died on that hill... demanding that EVERY hole (whether is was reinforced for locks or not) be mounted with a padlock. At some point it doesn't matter what the TSA regs are if you aren't prepared to cause a scene with stubborn employees and burn time before your flight takes off.

[@IsaacLicharowicz]

@@chrisspiritus9043 I agree. It's easier to just comply rather than miss your flight.

[@peterlowell7963]

Darn, I thought this was a way I could easily become a U.S Air Marshall.

[@PisternatorTV]

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

[@johnpush4585]

Rangers get the best toys!! I dont the navy even owns an optic.

[@jackl45]

Second

[@dimemmo]

Why didn’t you cut your foam? The extra piece included is to make a cutout of your firearm or contents so that they don’t move around in the case.

[@chrisspiritus9043]

The government doesn't want you to know this, but the only time those custom cut middle foam inserts are used are in action movies. They take up too much valuable storage space.

[@dimemmo]

@@chrisspiritus9043 I just cut it with a knife it’s choppy as hell but it works lol. If I need more room I can always take it out 🙂

[@Fr33zy159]

Very specific knowledge coming through; at MSP, pretty much every firearm will be held behind the counter at the bag return. Delta especially are complete assholes about this, and before you can recover the case will ZIPTIE your case shut in front of you.