XD in checked baggage

[Gryff]

Originally Posted by djturnz

TSA IS NOT ALLOWED TO OPEN YOUR DECLARED GUN CASE.

I thought TSA could open any checked baggage item anytime they want before the bag is loaded on the plane. If this isn't true, please provide link to the stated rules.

When I fly with my guns (which I do for competition), I do the following:

- Place trigger locks (the kind that fully cover the trigger guard) on my
pistols (if the gun is stolen it is still going to be very difficult to make usable).
- Place the guns inside a Guard Force pistol case (chosen because it is a hard case with latches that can be secured with padlocks) and locked with two TSA locks (each with a different TSA key number). I will not use the plastic cases since those are too easy to pry open quickly.
- Case goes into my main suitcase, which is also locked with a TSA lock (using a different key #).

To date, every counter agent has asked me to verify that the gun is unloaded. They then place the firearms card in the case and escort me to the TSA screening point. The TSA guys ask if the locks are unlocked, I inform them that everything has TSA locks, and then I stand there while the case goes through the detector.

To date, I've had zero problems. I worry about using the TSA locks, since there are keys that unlock them and I don't know how readily available those keys are. But EVERY TIME I've used a non-TSA lock on a bag, and left the lock unlocked for inspection, the bag later arrived with the lock still unlocked or missing altogether. That definitely doesn't inspire confidence.

[XD_Hokie]

From what I read on the TSA web page you should be the only one who has access to your lock on your gun case.

...We [TSA] recommend that you provide the key or combination to the security officer if he or she needs to open the container. You should remain present during screening to take the key back after the container is cleared. If you are not present and the security officer must open the container, we or the airline will make a reasonable attempt to contact you [airport page or cell phone]. If we can't contact you, the container will not be placed on the plane. Federal regulations prohibit unlocked gun cases (or cases with broken locks) on aircraft. ...

Although not clearly stated in the text above, it would appear there would be no need for you to "provide the key or combination to the security officer" if the gun case was suppose to have a TSA lock on it. The TSA agents have a set of keys that will open TSA locks readily available. Also, the mention of "Federal regulations prohibit unlocked gun cases (or cases with broken locks) on aircraft" would also imply that if the gun case was to be opened and TSA could not contact you in the airport to provide the key or combination after the initial check-in they may break or cut the lock and then not be able to lock it back and therefore not put the gun case on the flight. I am not sure if this means just the gun case or the entire checked bag, but it does read "case" so I would think just the gun case only.

In regard to using TSA locks on your gun case, I would want to have some evidence that the gun case lock was opened either by calling me to provide access or a broken lock, rather than not knowing the gun has been opened without me present. I think this would make it easier to file a claim if something were to come up missing or damaged. Also a picture of the guns taken individually and in the case would seem to be a nice addition to the other needed description and valuation items for the guns should you need to produce this to file a claim.

Also, of note if you have valuable firearms. See Delta Airlines information below, I would check for specifics with your airline.

Declaring Baggage Value

Liability for loss, delay or damage to baggage will be limited unless a higher valuation for checked baggage has been declared and additional charges paid at check-in (see below).

• Domestic Liability Limit: $3,000 per ticketed passenger.

Baggage liability restrictions and exceptions:

• Maximum liability is not automatic—damage or loss value must be proven.
• Delta is not liable for unsuitably packed items.
• Delta is not liable for loss, damage, or delay of baggage that may result from a security search conducted by any local, state, or federal agency[TSA].

Excess Valuation Delta Air Lines is not liable for checked or unchecked baggage in excess of the limits described above unless:

• You declare a higher value.
• The declared value does not exceed $5,000.
• The item is properly described, properly packaged and undamaged.
• You pay an excess value fee at check-in.

The excess valuation charge is applicable only when the declared value is greater than the applicable liability limit.

Domestic Excess Valuation Charges

(Continental U.S., Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico, and Virgin Islands)
Total Amount Declared Value Fee Paid at Check-In
$3001 - $4000 declared value - fee $40
$4001 - $5000 declared value - fee $50

[Vandal]

A little bump on the thread. I am getting ready to fly from Boise to Seattle with a layover in Spokane. Lots of good info here but my 4 hour layover has me worried. If it were direct, I wouldn't have an issue but I am going ot be in Spokanistan with my XD sitting in my luggage for 4 hours. I am flying on Southwest. Has anyone flown Southwest with firearms? Their rules closely resemble TSAs so I should be ok there but i have a few questions.

First, has anyone on here flown out of Boise on SWA or another airline with guns and what is the process they use?

Second, can I place my XD (in its hardcase with my big old Master Lock) in the same piece of luggage as my box of Gold Dots? I am planning on putting a TSA lock on my bag.

Third, will there be any trouble with my layover? That is the one part that has me really concerned.

I am thinking about going to visit the airport and talking to TSA and Southwest too see how they do things.

[Gryff]

Originally Posted by Vandal

First, has anyone on here flown out of Boise on SWA or another airline with guns and what is the process they use?

Never flown out of Boise, but Southwest tends to be one of the more reasonable airlines regarding travelling with firearms.

Originally Posted by Vandal

Second, can I place my XD (in its hardcase with my big old Master Lock) in the same piece of luggage as my box of Gold Dots?

Yes, as long as the XD is in its own locked gun case.

Originally Posted by Vandal

Third, will there be any trouble with my layover? That is the one part that has me really concerned.

I would actually be more worried if it is was a very brief layover, with the chance that your bag may not make it onto the connecting flight.

In theory, the baggage handlers should have no idea that there is a gun in your bag, so just make sure your bag is really well secured and unlikely to open due to rough handling.