TexasCHLforum.com

CEOofEVIL wrote:Hmmm very interesting stuff. I wonder why exactly the TSA allows either or? Personally, I feel safer with a Non-TSA lock on the Suitcase/luggage that the Locked Container containing the Firearm is in, simply because it makes me feel a bit better that no one is going to "disappear" the gun out of my suitcase. Its good to know that there is a degree of flexibitly in the regulations though, as it seems to provide a choice based on preference to the owner of the gun/traveler.

TexasTransplant wrote:

RoyGBiv wrote:I believe you need to have a TSA lock on the outside of your bag. I have always had one, so I'm not sure what happens if you do not.

Are you saying that you have a locked container inside your regular luggage, then you lock the luggage with a TSA-approved lock?

The container must be locked. A locked container is defined as one that completely secures the firearm from being accessed. Cases that can be pulled open with little effort cannot be brought aboard the aircraft. Federal regulations prohibit unlocked gun cases (or cases with broken locks) on aircraft.
TSA inspects all firearm cases at the ticket counter. Travelers should remain in the area designated by the aircraft operator or TSA representative to take the key back after the container is cleared for transportation. If travelers are not present and the security officer must open the container, TSA or the airline will make a reasonable attempt to contact the owner. If contact is not made, the container will not be placed on the aircraft.

The firearm must be carried in a hard-sided container.
The container must be locked.
The passenger must provide the key or combination to the screener if it is necessary to open the container, and then remain present during screening to take back possession of the key after the container is cleared.

Q. What is the proper lock that I should use to secure my hard-sided firearms case?
A. Travelers can use a single key or combination lock to which only the traveler has the key or combination, or a TSA-recognized lock. For more information about traveling with firearms, please read our Firearms and Ammunition Web page.

Q. Are TSA-recognized locks permitted for securing firearms in a hard-sided case?
A. Yes. For more information, please visit Traveling with Special Items.

ELB wrote:I've had all the variations described above -- declaration card inside the gunbox/card outside the gunbox, show unloaded/don't show, show behind curtain (rare)/show at the counter (most common), walk the bag myself to TSA/airline employee walk bag to TSA, TSA wants to look in the gunbox/don't want to look in the box. At one airport the TSA was even verifying guns were unloaded for the airlines, altho I think that has since changed.

I just make sure MY end of the process is golden, go with the local airport flow, and have not had any problems. I always tell the TSA guy I will be standing by while they run it thru the machine, and this has always worked out. The process eats up some time, but has never been a real problem. Of course, I only fly to and from free states. And lately I don't feel like flying much at all.

cpmann wrote:Anyone got a good recommendation for a case to use to transport a small pistol and 3 mags ?