A Flying Travelers Guide To Firearm Laws Of The 50 States

By Anna Foster


Serious hunters and competitive sportsmen all know there are hundreds of regulations, rules, and state law covering what can and can't be done when it comes to the transportation of firearms. Those with less experience may be aware of their state regulations, but not quite as certain how to go about taking weapons with them when they fly into other regions of the country. If you are traveling with firearms for the first time, you need to know what you will be facing. You can start by reading a travelers guide to firearm laws of the 50 states.

If you're traveling by air, you will also have to obey the rules and regulations set down by the airline you are using and the TSA. The first thing you will need is a sturdy hard case to carry your guns in. Borrowing from a fellow hunter could be a good idea if you are an infrequent flier. You can go online to compare sizes and prices. You'll notice different models have different locks. The cases with TSA locks are the least desirable.

Before you go anywhere, you need to research the rules of whichever airline you will be flying on. Most airline rules are similar, but you shouldn't depend on that. Printing out the instructions is a good idea. You will also want to go to TSA's website and print out their current rules. These instructions do change from time to time, and it is easier if you've got a copy of the current ones with you.

Nobody should have to tell a sportsman that you never carry a loaded gun into an airport, even if it is in a case, but people do it all the time. Make sure all your guns and ammunition are in proper order before you leave the house. Opening your case and checking your weapons in the middle of the airport will cause a lot of problems. A good suggestion from frequent fliers is to open the cylinder, so the TSA can tell at a glance it's empty.

Curbside check in is not allowed if you are carrying firearms, so you will have to wait in line at the counter. Never open your case when you are in line. Once you get to the front of the line, declare quietly that you have guns with you. You should do this in a way that does not cause the people around you to panic.

Some clerks will call a TSA agent right to the counter to handle the inspection. Others will escort you to the front of the TSA line. Once this part of the process is completed, you probably need to relax in the waiting area because you might be called back to fill out more paperwork or answer more questions.

You have to keep the keys to your weapons case with you at all times. It is against the law for you to let anyone else have them. If an official requests the keys, for whatever purpose, and you feel you have to hand them over, you must not let them out of your sight.

It can be a hassle trying to follow all the rules and regulations when it comes to traveling from state to state with firearms. You may need some patience, but if you follow instructions, you should be fine.




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