Quick Answer
❌ No. TSA prohibits BB guns and airsoft guns in carry-on luggage.
✅ They are only allowed in checked luggage, and must be declared at the ticket counter.
⚠️ Guns must be unloaded, packed in a hard-sided case, and locked.
Details
- Carry-on:
- BB guns, pellet guns, and airsoft replicas are banned in cabins.
- TSA treats them like firearms due to their realistic appearance.
- Checked luggage:
- Permitted if:
- Unloaded.
- Locked in a hard-sided case.
- Declared to the airline at check-in.
- Ammunition (BBs, pellets) is also allowed in checked bags.
- Replica rules:
- Even if non-functional or toy-like, airsoft and BB guns must go in checked bags.
- International flights:
- Many countries classify airsoft/BB guns as firearms — import may be restricted or require permits.
TSA BB Gun & Airsoft Rules Summary
| Item Type | Carry-On | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| BB gun / pellet gun | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed (declared, locked case) |
| Airsoft gun (replica) | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed (declared, locked case) |
| Ammunition (BBs/pellets) | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Toy foam guns | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
Gotchas / Common Issues
- ✈️ Declaration required: Failure to declare can result in confiscation and fines.
- ✈️ Hard-sided case: Airline requires the case to be locked; only you retain the key/combination.
- ✈️ Look-alike guns: Even toy airsoft guns that look realistic are banned from carry-on.
- ✈️ Customs issues: Some countries treat airsoft guns as restricted imports.