Quick Answer
❌ No. TSA prohibits pellet guns in carry-on luggage.
✅ They are allowed in checked luggage, but must follow firearm rules:
- Must be unloaded.
- Must be in a locked, hard-sided case.
- Must be declared to the airline at check-in.
Details
- Carry-on:
- Pellet guns are banned in cabins.
- TSA treats them as firearms due to their realistic appearance and firing capability.
- Checked luggage:
- Pellet guns are permitted if:
- Unloaded.
- Locked in a hard-sided case.
- Declared to the airline at the ticket counter.
- Ammunition (pellets):
- Allowed in both carry-on and checked bags.
- CO₂ cartridges must be empty — full ones are prohibited.
- International flights:
- Many countries classify pellet guns as firearms, requiring permits or banning import.
TSA Pellet Gun Rules Summary
| Item Type | Carry-On | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Pellet gun (any type) | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed (declared, locked case) |
| Pellets (ammo) | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| CO₂ cartridges (full) | ❌ Not allowed | ❌ Not allowed |
| CO₂ cartridges (empty) | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
Gotchas / Common Issues
- ✈️ Declaration required: Pellet guns must be declared like real firearms.
- ✈️ Locked case rule: TSA requires hard-sided locked cases for pellet guns.
- ✈️ Ammo rules: Pellets are fine, but CO₂ tanks must be empty.
- ✈️ Customs: Some countries ban pellet guns entirely or require special permits.