Varminterror
Lil-Rokslider
- Joined
- Nov 19, 2019
- Messages
- 115
I would alter the advice from several folks above which suggest to “call” TSA and the airlines, and replace that with “visit their website and print multiple copies of their policies.” It’s VERY common to run across folks on the phone or at the counter who are not familiar with the policies of their own company, let alone their federal governing body.
I’ve never had my ammo weighed. I can be certain I have flown with more than 11lbs of ammunition to several matches.
Flying with firearms seems daunting until you get used to it. I have flown for business 20-30 weeks per year for over a decade; unless my destination doesn’t respect my CCHL, I take my EDC with me, and I typically have found myself flying for a hunting trip or competition at least once per year for about twice as long. You’ll need extra time, and need to have documentation of their policies to be able to hold them to their own words. You’ll also want to confirm where and how your firearms are retrieved at your destination airports, as not all airports handle firearm pick up the same (I’ve picked mine up off of a carousel at some ports, and have had to visit a special office at others).
Another viable option many folks may not realize - mail your firearm to yourself. Ammunition can be shipped ORM-D or can be transported in your carry on, but it’s pretty easy (albeit expensive and slower) to ship your firearm to yourself at a destination address, such as a hotel, gunshop (no transfer), or outfitter’s address. The box must be addressed on both ends to and from yourself, and the c/o recipient can not open it, but I’ve had good luck avoiding hassles at the airport by shipping my firearms in advance of my flights. Just costs a lot (which depending on the airline’s baggage policy, shipping might actually be the LESS expensive option now). Food for thought.
I’ve never had my ammo weighed. I can be certain I have flown with more than 11lbs of ammunition to several matches.
Flying with firearms seems daunting until you get used to it. I have flown for business 20-30 weeks per year for over a decade; unless my destination doesn’t respect my CCHL, I take my EDC with me, and I typically have found myself flying for a hunting trip or competition at least once per year for about twice as long. You’ll need extra time, and need to have documentation of their policies to be able to hold them to their own words. You’ll also want to confirm where and how your firearms are retrieved at your destination airports, as not all airports handle firearm pick up the same (I’ve picked mine up off of a carousel at some ports, and have had to visit a special office at others).
Another viable option many folks may not realize - mail your firearm to yourself. Ammunition can be shipped ORM-D or can be transported in your carry on, but it’s pretty easy (albeit expensive and slower) to ship your firearm to yourself at a destination address, such as a hotel, gunshop (no transfer), or outfitter’s address. The box must be addressed on both ends to and from yourself, and the c/o recipient can not open it, but I’ve had good luck avoiding hassles at the airport by shipping my firearms in advance of my flights. Just costs a lot (which depending on the airline’s baggage policy, shipping might actually be the LESS expensive option now). Food for thought.
