TREX TALK: How Lucas Botkin Flies with "Things"

Published on April 28, 2021
Duration: 67:39

This video provides expert guidance on flying with firearms, emphasizing that airline policies, not just TSA rules, are paramount. Lucas Botkin, a firearms instructor, details how to properly pack firearms in locked hard cases, declare them to the airline, and manage ammunition. He advises against TSA locks, recommends documenting contents, and explains strategies for handling both standard and oversized checked baggage containing firearms and related gear.

Quick Summary

When flying with firearms, ensure they are unloaded and secured in a locked, hard-sided case. Declare them to the airline, and follow their specific policies regarding ammunition and case handling. Personal locks are recommended over TSA locks for better security.

Chapters

  1. 04:49Introduction to Flying with Firearms
  2. 05:32Airline vs. TSA Rules
  3. 06:17Ammunition Restrictions and Shipping
  4. 07:25Packing a Pelican Case for Travel
  5. 07:46Why Not to Use TSA Locks
  6. 08:50Packing Small vs. Large Cases
  7. 10:09Avoiding Carousel Theft
  8. 10:40Using Oversized Cases
  9. 12:05Declaring Firearms at Check-in
  10. 12:49The Importance of Slick Cases (No Stickers)
  11. 13:37Contents of a Travel Pelican Case
  12. 14:22Airline Declaration Slips
  13. 15:05Documenting Your Case Contents
  14. 16:07Packing Other Gear (Toiletries, Holsters)
  15. 17:20Alternative Packing Methods
  16. 18:27Mailing Guns vs. Flying
  17. 18:52Airport Security Protocols Vary
  18. 19:29Maximum Weight Limits
  19. 19:54Recommended Locks for Firearm Cases
  20. 20:08The Purpose of Case Locks
  21. 21:24Do TSA/Airline Staff Know NFA Law?
  22. 23:17NFA Paperwork and Travel
  23. 24:05Suppressors on Flights
  24. 25:02What You Can Carry On (Night Vision, Armor)
  25. 28:28Tactical Flashlights on Flights
  26. 29:27Removing Parts to Reduce Weight
  27. 30:08Medical Gear on Flights
  28. 31:34Needle Decompression for Carry-on
  29. 32:37Shears on Flights
  30. 33:57TSA Stealing from Checked Baggage
  31. 35:20Declaration Tag Placement
  32. 36:21Airsoft Guns and Travel
  33. 36:45Flying with Large Pelican Cases
  34. 37:01Packing Smaller Cases
  35. 38:36Carrying Battle Belts and Plate Carriers
  36. 39:16Flying into States with Restrictive Laws
  37. 40:01Flying Out of Restrictive States
  38. 41:41International Travel Restrictions (ITAR)
  39. 43:00International Travel Complexities
  40. 44:47Why ITAR Exists
  41. 45:02Easiest Airports for Firearm Travel
  42. 46:48General Advice for Flying with Guns
  43. 47:07Using Full-Service Check-in Lines
  44. 47:41Flying Without Protection
  45. 48:18Social Media Presence
  46. 48:35Recommended Airport Arrival Time
  47. 49:13Topics Not Covered (Chopping Grips)
  48. 50:18Guitar Case for Rifle Transport
  49. 51:34Travel to Hungary and Belgium
  50. 51:43Flying with Guns: Simple Process
  51. 52:31Proactive Check-in for Firearm Cases
  52. 53:57Ammunition Carried on Flights
  53. 55:20Shipping Ammunition Ahead
  54. 55:27Flying with Machine Guns
  55. 56:13Legal Nuances: SOT vs. Personal AR
  56. 56:52Transporting Batteries
  57. 57:07Notifying ATF for NFA Items
  58. 57:57Guns in Holsters on Flights
  59. 58:31Two-Gun Match Planning
  60. 61:42Flying with Grenade Launchers
  61. 62:15Chamber Flags for Air Travel
  62. 62:39Flying NFA Items to Non-Permissive States
  63. 63:15Mindset for Training vs. Competition
  64. 64:36Hot Holstering in Competition
  65. 65:00Critique of Competition Rules
  66. 66:13Future of T.REX ARMS Matches

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key rules for flying with firearms?

Firearms must be unloaded and in a locked, hard-sided case. Declare them to the airline, and follow their specific policies regarding ammunition and case handling. Personal locks are recommended over TSA locks.

Can I bring ammunition on a plane?

Yes, ammunition can be transported in its original factory packaging. Some airlines allow it in magazines, but check their specific rules on quantity limits (often 11-20 lbs) and packaging requirements.

Should I use TSA locks on my firearm case?

No, it's strongly advised against using TSA-approved locks. Use your own personal key or combination locks for better security, as TSA locks can be easily opened by security personnel.

What is the best way to pack a firearm for checked baggage?

Pack your unloaded firearm in a locked, hard-sided case. For added security and discretion, place this case inside a larger checked bag or use an oversized case that the airline will guard.

Do I need to declare my firearm when flying?

Yes, you must declare your firearm to the airline agent at check-in. You will typically fill out a declaration form, and the airline will provide a tag for your case.

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