Quick Answer
❌ No. TSA prohibits firearm parts in carry-on luggage (other than scopes/optics).
✅ Gun parts are only allowed in checked luggage.
⚠️ This includes barrels, frames, triggers, magazines, and bolts — even if not assembled into a full firearm.
Details
- Carry-on:
- Gun parts (barrels, slides, triggers, bolts, firing pins, magazines with ammo) are banned.
- Scopes and optics are the only firearm-related items allowed in cabins.
- Checked luggage:
- All firearm parts are allowed in checked baggage.
- Must be securely packed.
- If parts can be assembled into a functional firearm, treat them as a firearm → declare at check-in and place in a locked hard-sided case.
- Replica parts:
- Replica and inert firearm parts are treated the same as real ones.
- International flights:
- Many countries regulate import of firearm components as tightly as complete guns.
TSA Gun Part Rules Summary
| Gun Part Type | Carry-On | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Barrel / slide / receiver | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed (declare if full firearm) |
| Trigger / firing pin / bolt | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Magazine (empty) | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Magazine (loaded) | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed (secure packaging) |
| Scope / optic | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
Gotchas / Common Issues
- ✈️ Treated like a gun: If parts can form a firearm, they must be declared and locked in a case.
- ✈️ Scopes exception: Only scopes and optics are allowed in carry-on.
- ✈️ Replica parts: TSA applies the same rules — no replicas in carry-on.
- ✈️ International customs: Some parts may require export/import permits.