Quick Answer
❌ No. TSA prohibits firearms in carry-on luggage.
✅ Guns are only allowed in checked baggage, and strict rules apply:
- Must be unloaded.
- Must be in a locked, hard-sided case.
- Must be declared to the airline at check-in.
⚠️ Ammunition also has special packing requirements.
Details
- Carry-on:
- Firearms, ammunition, and firearm parts are strictly prohibited.
- Only exceptions: small firearm parts that are not restricted (e.g., scopes).
- Checked luggage:
- Firearms are permitted if:
- Unloaded.
- Stored in a hard-sided, locked case.
- Declared to the airline at the ticket counter.
- Only the passenger may retain the key/combination.
- Ammunition:
- Allowed in checked luggage.
- Must be securely packed in fiber, wood, or metal boxes (or original packaging).
- Airline limits typically allow up to 11 lbs (5 kg) per passenger.
- Replica and starter guns:
- Treated as real firearms — same rules apply.
- International flights:
- Many countries require permits for importing firearms.
TSA Firearm Rules Summary
| Firearm Type / Item | Carry-On | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Handguns / rifles / shotguns | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed (declared, locked case) |
| Ammunition (boxed) | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed (≤ 11 lbs) |
| Replica or starter guns | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed (same as real guns) |
| Scopes / optics | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
Gotchas / Common Issues
- ✈️ Declaration required: Forgetting to declare a firearm can result in confiscation, fines, or arrest.
- ✈️ Locked case: TSA requires hard-sided cases; only the passenger may hold the key/combination.
- ✈️ Ammo limits: Airlines may enforce the 11 lb (5 kg) ammunition cap.
- ✈️ International flights: Firearm import/export laws vary widely — always check local rules.