A big question we get from students flying in to train with us is, “How do I fly with my pistol and/or rifle?”
If you have never flown with weapons, it can be a little intimidating, but let me be REALLY clear…it’s VERY easy flying with weapons. Here are a few tips:
- Always check your airlines website and see what requirements they have. Most airlines are similar, but it’s good to check.
- What case to use? I personally use the Pelican Vault V200 when I’m only traveling with my pistols and I use the Pelican Vault V730 when traveling with my rifle and pistols.
- What locks to use? You can use whatever lock you choose, just make sure every hole for a lock has one in it. You can just do a search for these on Amazon.
So here is what will happen when you get to the airport:
- You HAVE to go to the check-in counter.
- You will tell them you are traveling with a firearm.
- They will make you fill out a little card saying you verify everything is unloaded.
- They will tape that card to the top of the case.
- If I’m traveling with just my small pistol case, I usually put that in my luggage so people don’t see it. If it’s a rifle case then it has to be checked on it’s own.
- After that, your airline personnel will most likely tell you to wait in a certain area for 10 minutes. TSA will come and get you if they want to check your weapon. If they don’t come out after 10 minutes, you go get on your flight.
- If they want to check, go with them to their back room, unlock your case and show them everything is unloaded. You will then lock the case back up and be on your way.
Honestly, the last 6 times I’ve traveled no TSA has checked my weapons.
So there you have it, the down and dirty on traveling with a firearm. Pretty easy right?
I’m sharing this with you today, because if you decide to come train with us, it’s ALWAYS best to train with YOUR weapon and not use our range guns if all possible.
Let me know if you have any questions.
Stay Frosty,
Sgt Nick Rians
