TSA regulations, airline policies, NFA item transport rules (SBR, SBS, suppressors), and what you need to know before flying armed.
⚠️ Informational only — Not legal advice. Laws change. Consult an attorney for your specific situation.
TSA FEDERAL REGULATIONS
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Firearms Must Be Unloaded
49 CFR § 1540.111
All firearms must be completely unloaded when transported in checked baggage. No round in the chamber, no loaded magazines attached to the firearm.
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Hard-Sided Locked Container Required
49 CFR § 1544.201
The firearm must be in a hard-sided container that is completely locked with a padlock, combination lock, or TSA-approved lock that only you have the key/combination to. TSA CANNOT have access to this lock — do NOT use TSA master-key locks for firearms cases.
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Declaration Required at Check-In
49 CFR § 1544.203
You must orally declare to the airline agent that you have an unloaded firearm in your checked baggage. You'll complete a Firearms Declaration card that is placed inside the locked case — NOT on the outside.
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Ammunition Rules
49 CFR § 175.10
Ammunition must be in original factory packaging OR a hard container specifically designed for ammunition. Maximum 11 lbs (5 kg) of small arms ammunition per passenger. No tracer or incendiary rounds.
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Carry-On Prohibited
49 CFR § 1540.111(a)
Firearms are strictly prohibited in carry-on baggage or on your person through security checkpoints. This applies to all firearms including antiques, replicas, and unloaded weapons.
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Parts & Accessories
TSA Policy
Gun parts (slides, barrels, frames/receivers) are also prohibited in carry-on. Magazines, clips, and speed loaders may be carried on IF they contain no ammunition.
📋 THE DECLARATION PROCESS — STEP BY STEP
1
Arrive Early
Add 30+ extra minutes — firearm declaration takes longer than normal check-in.
2
Go to Counter
Must use a manned airline counter. Self-service kiosks cannot process firearm declarations.
3
Declare Verbally
Say: 'I have an unloaded firearm in my checked baggage that I would like to declare.'
4
Complete Tag
Fill out the Firearms Declaration card. Place it INSIDE the locked case — never outside.
5
TSA Inspection
TSA may request to verify the firearm is unloaded. You must be present for this inspection.
6
Check Your Bag
Receive your claim check. Your bag will be handled as oversized/special baggage.
Heritage Shield Defense Academy • Not legal advice. Always verify current TSA, airline, and state regulations before travel. Laws change frequently.