If you want to shoot in places far from your home, you will need to carry a gun on an airplane.Many "gun destinations" are for target-shooting matches where the guns are less powerful than the high power rifles and shotguns.
Step 1: You should get a good case.
The cases made by the companies are the best.These cases are very difficult.A tank can roll over them.The best case is required when baggage handling is rough.The typical Walmart case won't work.The foam linings in the best cases can be cut to fit your gun.Since the guns will not fit without cutting, you must make cutouts.It is often illegal to have bullets in a weapon, even for car travel.Magazines and other gear can be provided.It is possible to pack a pistol inside of regular luggage.Having a case that does not resemble a gun case can be an advantage since the theft of any gun is a consideration.This obfuscation is provided by the fact that your pistols are enclosed in regular luggage.People are packing their rifles in travel containers.The Pelican-like cases are not the same as the "gun" cases that are used for demonstration equipment.
Step 2: Some people think that the scope should be dismounted.
This is a simple step that may prevent problems with cases such as suggested with very thick foam.
Step 3: Use a non-TSA approved lock.
The regulation that governs firearm transportation prohibits the use of a TSA approved lock.In reality, the locks are not legal as they are designed to be opened by a master key, which is forbidden by the above regulation.After they visually inspect the packing of your gun, you will either have to re-lock your case or give them a key, if you choose to use a combination lock.No contact should be made with a gun if the agent is not trained to handle it.If an agent feels a firearm needs in-depth inspection, they need a law enforcement officer to do it.If re-inspection is necessary after the bag is checked, they will locate the owner and have them open the case again, so it is wise to remain in the area or on the aircraft.Buy the best non-TSA locks.
Step 4: You can't use curbside check-in if you want to bring guns to the airport.
When you get to the counter, tell the attendant that you have a gun.It is wise to alert the agent as to avoid a delay due to a misunderstanding, as airgun/air rifle/ air pistol are not considered firearms and do not require declaration but do have to be placed in checked baggage.Air tanks can't be past the TSA without an internal inspection.Tanks attached to a gun are considered to be part of the gun and not a tank.If you must have additional tanks, either prepare them for internal inspection or ship them separately.To allow internal inspection of an airgun tank, it is a good idea to travel with the tools.If necessary, the tanks should have air pressure released before the inspection.There is no risk of explosion from travel.
Step 5: The attendant wants to know if the gun is unloaded.
There is a form you have to fill out to get into the gun case.There is a baggage tag for your gun.The gun will be sent to the inspector for further processing.
Step 6: If the gun is.75 caliber or less, it can be packed separately in your luggage or in the same case.
There are restrictions on the packing of the gun in some states.Airlines usually limit the amount of bullets that can be carried per person.The limits can be checked with the airline.You can always separate the bullets.It is not easy to ship guns.
Step 7: Most of the time, the TSA inspection is fairly cursory.
They are only allowed to look at the firearms packing and the case.They are allowed to search the case in depth, but no manipulation of the firearm is allowed in terms of opening the action, removing parts or magazines or dis-assembly of any type.If the agent deems it necessary, they must have a law enforcement officer come to the area.You may be asked to explain why you traveled with a gun.Be nice if that is the case.A short and simple answer is all that is needed."Protection while on my trip, hunting, or attending a shooting event"Nothing will be asked.The most positive statements I have heard about my firearms have been made by the inspecting agents.
Step 8: After the inspection is complete, close the case and put away the key.
It is recommended that your gun becomes "luggage" except for the possibility of being routed to special handling upon arrival at your destination.While the airline may tell you that your guns will arrive in a different area than you baggage, in practice they will often just be luggage and arrive with your other bags.If not informed, ask the agent where to expect them and be prepared to check both special handling and regular baggage arrivals at the airport.
Step 9: You need to obtain the rules and regulations for US Customs and the country you will be visiting for international travel.
Step 10: If you can, plan your travel with direct flights.
It avoids delays, lost baggage, and problems with transporting a gun through a third country.
Step 11: Get forms early from the host country.
Make sure to call the host country embassy in the US to make sure you're not missing anything.Most of the required information for getting a rifle into their country can be provided by event organizers.
Step 12: Before you leave, you need to get a US Customs form signed by a Customs office.
If you want to get your gun back into the US without paying duty, this is the way to go.You can reuse the form once you have it.If you have a Customs Office at the airport, this can be done on departure day.You don't have to depend on information from your airline regarding Customs availability if you call the office directly.