With the lockdown lifting, there’s not much clarity left on traveling with firearms. Getting a TSA-approved gun case is the first step. Other than that, you need to learn everything you can about flying with a gun. But first, here are reviews of the top 10 TSA-approved gun cases.
Top 3 Best TSA Approved Gun Cases
1. Plano All Weather Travel Pistol Case
The Plano gun case is a pre-cut marvel that lets you modify the storage space at your convenience. You can tear it wherever you want to put something in.
It is the ideal option for those who travel with many pistols. The gun guard is designed to withstand the most extreme conditions.
The Plano all-weather travel pistol case can store four large handguns and a few magazines easily. It features heavy-duty lockable latches and a built-in pressure valve. This is especially important on a flight with constant bumping and to release and equalize pressure caused by altitude.
The pluck-to-fit style foam isn’t the only attraction, and you also get a sleek black case with yellow latches.
The Plano All Weather Pistol Case offers gun owners the highest amount of protection possible. It creates a watertight and airtight seal to keep your guns protected in all conditions.
2. MY CASE BUILDER 10 Pistol Gun Case
This 10-pistol gun case is the top choice on our list. If budget is not the concern and you want the best gun case, this is the case to pick.
Each case can fit ten pistols and 20 magazines simultaneously. They are all lined with closed-cell polyethylene foam inserts to provide maximum protection to your guns. Unlike other gun cases, you can wipe this one clean in one swipe due to its chemical and oil-resistant properties.
Adding to the plethora of its useful features is the heavy-duty injection-molded exterior. The design enhances its impact and crush-resistant properties without making it too heavy. The MY CASE BUILDER 10 Pistol Case can easily fit multiple pistols, handguns, and accessories thanks to its dimensions.
If you thought that was all, think again. This exceptional case also features wheels as a comfortable travel option.
It is IP67-approved, compliant with TSA regulations, and features a pressure valve. All in all, it is a great choice if you’re looking for a TSA-approved gun case for your next trip.
3. Eylar Tactical Hard Gun Case
The Eylar Tactical Gun Case is fit with TSA luggage lock fittings allowing firearm owners to carry their handguns safely in airplanes. It is designed specially to meet the TSA’s strict requirements for the transport of firearms in the US.
It comes with a folding carry handle for easy transportation. You can fold the handle and fit this case in your bag effortlessly. As for the construction, it is manufactured with top-quality polypropylene plastic. This heavy-duty build ensures that you get a crushproof, waterproof, and corrosion-resistant gun case.
The Eylar Tactical Gun Case features an adaptive air pressure valve which is extremely useful when the case is being transported at higher/lower altitudes and within cargo vacuums.
When the case is shut, the rubber perimeter creates a waterproof shield keeping your firearms secure inside. The best thing about this TSA-approved gun case is that it won’t leave a hole in your pocket. So, if you’re on a strict budget, go for this gun case.
4. Case Club 6 Pistol Pre-Cut Case
This compact gun case from Case Club is the perfect solution to store 6 pistols and up to 21 magazines when traveling. Plus, you can add six more in the magwells if you want!
It also comes with rechargeable silica gel canisters to absorb moisture and keep your weapon protected from rust.
The case itself is 100% travel-friendly and TSA-approved for airplanes. It sports two padlock points so you can keep your gear protected on the plane.
Other than this, the case is 100% waterproof (IP67 rated) and comes with an inbuilt pressure release valve.
Moving on to the foam, it is heavy-duty and pre-cut made from closed cell polyethylene. It is thick enough to accommodate full-size to subcompact pistols with attachments. It also has height and length adjustment blocks to help customize the blocks for smaller pistols.
This case promises a quick draw as the pistols sit in draw position, and the guns can be easily picked up from the grip in a safe manner.
5. MY CASE BUILDER 6 Pistol Gun Case
The MY CASE BUILDER 6 Pistol Gun Case is a very handy case designed with portability, comfort, and safety in mind.
It fits six pistols and 18 magazines without any hassle. You will get all the top-quality features you can expect from a TSA-approved gun case. The only difference?
It comes at an affordable price and won’t leave a gun case-shaped hole in your pocket. Two-phase hooks ensure the case remains closed even if it is dropped or handled roughly. Additionally, you get padlock holes. This gives additional security. The gun case is equipped with an automatic pressure relief valve to balance air pressure to keep your firearms safe.
In terms of portability, this case beats most cases and is 20% lighter than the rest. Thanks to the lightweight construction and ergonomically designed handle, carrying around a gun case has been easier.
Simply put, this gun safe is designed with safety and discretion in mind. It looks like a toolbox on the exterior but is equipped with the best features to keep your guns and pistols safe inside.
6. MY CASE BUILDER 5 Pistol Gun Case with Foam Inserts
MY CASE BUILDER is a popular choice amongst firearm owners when looking for a reliable gun case. Their cases are designed with military-grade foam and with utmost precision. Each case features a hard shell with closed-cell polyethylene foam inserts to keep your firearms protected.
The heavy-duty injection molded case is crush-resistant and can withstand strong impacts. Despite its exceptional impact and crush-resistant properties, the case is still lightweight and easy to transport.
The MY CASE BUILDER 5 Pistol Gun Case is IP67 rated. Meaning you get a waterproof, dustproof, and airtight case at an affordable price.
As promised, this case is compliant with the TSA regulations and comes with a dual-padlocking system. This ensures that the case is travel-friendly and complies with regulations for flying with firearms.
Each case boasts a lifetime warranty and is IP67 rated for maximum durability. If you’re looking for a good TSA-approved gun case, this one from MY CASE BUILDER surely checks all the right boxes.
7. Case Club 4 Pistol Pre-Cut Case
The Case Club 4 Pistol Pre-Cut Case comes with a durable case shell paired with stainless steel hardware. This combination protects your firearm from rust. As a bonus, it also keeps your guns and pistols scratch-free.
It is completely waterproof and comes with an IP67 rating. You can submerge it in water completely without worrying about any damage to your guns. Its heavy-duty exterior keeps your guns dust-free and keeps away debris and any dirt. This is all possible due to the O-Ring seal on the inner perimeter of the case.
The case is pad lockable with two metal reinforced padlock points. The pressure release valve at the front allows users to equalize the atmospheric pressure conveniently.
This case can hold up to 4 pistols and up to 16 magazines. If needed, you can store four more in the magwells. The case comes with rechargeable moisture absorbent silica gel canisters to prevent rusting. It complies with all the TSA rules and regulations and is 100% shippable and surround approved.
8. MY CASE BUILDER 4 Pistol Gun Case
The MY CASE BUILDER 4 Pistol Gun Case can fit up to 4 pistols, 12 magazines, and an accessory. The construction is lightweight yet extremely durable.
The case is designed with safety in mind. The pistols point downwards when carrying and when you open the case.
The heavy-duty injection molded case is the right choice if you’re looking for a premium storage solution to transport your pistols and magazines securely. It is waterproof, dustproof, and airtight, thanks to the pressure equalization valve.
Furthermore, it includes a military-grade closed-cell polyethylene foam insert to prevent your guns and pistols from scratching. The cut-to-length plugs provide extra support to shorter pistols and magazines. Needless to say, these cases are IP67 rated and comply with all the TSA regulations.
Each gun case comes with a lifetime warranty and is built to last. The carrying cases are built in Italy, whereas the superb foam is manufactured in the USA.
9. Case Club 3 Pistol Pre-Cut Case
Need a compact, 3-pistol case while you are on your next trip?
The 3 Pistol Case is a great option by Case Club. It is designed especially for folks who want to store and transport their pistols safely. The universal size holds the most sized pistol in place securely. However, it is not ideal for subcompacts and revolvers.
The foam insert is created in a way that allows a quick draw. The foam features extra cutouts for spare magazines and is made using robust military-grade polyethylene. The outer shell is guaranteed for life. So, you know it will be one of the safest TSA-approved cases out there.
You get optional plastic or metal locking latches for additional protection. Overall, the case offers superior looks and is very handy.
The only downside is perhaps the cost. But for the quality and superb appearance, that can be overlooked.
10. Case Club 2 Pistol Pre-Cut Case
This super-compact gun case holds two pistols and up to 18 magazines. It is a reliable companion for a quick trip with your trusted firearms. If the magazines have expanded accessory pockets, the case can hold up to six of them.
The case is shippable, TSA approved and comes with two padlock points. This helps to support a 1/4″ shackle with hinge pins. The heavy-duty base foam is pre-cut.
The magazine compartments are dual-stack, so they fit single or double-stack magazines with ease.
The pistols are placed in an easy-to-draw position. So, whenever you need them, they’re just a pull away.
This may cost more than normal gun cases, but it is not your average gun case. The quality and looks are to die for. If you want to get a premium case and budget is not a constraint, this is one of our top recommendations.
Buyers’ Guide For Choosing The Best TSA Approved Case
If you’re planning to bring your firearms and ammunition on your next flight, hang on. There are a set of rules you need to follow. In this section, I’ll try to simplify all you need to know about taking your guns and pistols with you.
Firstly, you’ll need a TSA-approved gun case. Note that you may bring UNLOADED firearms as CHECKED BAGGAGE only.
With this, the gun case needs to have the following,
– A lock.
– Be hard-sided.
– Be transported as checked baggage.
That said, here are eight things you must know before setting foot on the airport with a firearm in possession.
State And Local Laws
The laws surrounding traveling with firearms may differ widely at different airports. Make sure you check the relevant laws of the state, the airport, and the city you’re in before carrying your firearms onto the airport.
Which Objects Are Considered Firearms?
It is best to check with the airline beforehand to get a list of things that are considered firearms. This may vary for different airlines, so be careful. While some may allow carrying certain attachments in your hand luggage, others may have strict policies regarding the same.
Just check with the airline when you’re in doubt about carrying a certain item in your luggage.
International Laws
There are strict laws when carrying firearms within the country. When you’re traveling overseas, it’s an even more sensitive matter. You should check the US Customs and Border Protection website for regular updates.
You will need to fill a few forms to get permission to travel with an unloaded weapon.
The Firearm Must Be Unloaded
Wherever you go, this is a standard rule to follow. The firearm must be unloaded. This means there should not be any ammunition in the firearm in any form. Make sure to follow this step, or you may end up in an extremely unwanted situation.
You may be fined and even face criminal charges and serve your time behind bars.
Picking The Right Gun Case
You can’t pick the cheapest gun case when traveling. It needs to follow certain parameters to qualify as a TSA-approved gun case.
Firearms must be transported in a locked container with a hard shell only. Sometimes, you may need more than one lock to secure the container before boarding a flight.
The owner is the only person allowed to retain the key to the lock. If the TSA personnel asks you to open the case, you are bound to open it and let them have a look.
Checking-in
As soon as you enter the airport, you are expected to announce your firearm at the check-in counter. This may take a few minutes, so you ought to leave early. You’ll need to sign a tag ensuring that you’ve followed all the regulations.
The case you pick must completely secure your firearm from being tampered with.
Parts And Attachments
Firearm parts and attachments cannot be carried in your carry-on bags. Magazines, bolts, clips, and even replicas need to be checked into your checked baggage.
In some cases, rifle scopes are allowed in the carry-ons, but it is always best to connect with the airlines beforehand.
Ammunition
Like any part, ammunition is a strict no in carry-on baggage. But some airlines permit carrying small arms ammunition, including .75 caliber cartridges and shotgun shells. Firearm magazines, whether loaded or unloaded, must be packed into the gun case securely. The TSA rules state that ammunition must be packed in a designated box for carrying ammunition.
FAQ
Q: What Type Of Gun Cases Are TSA Approved?
Any gun case that is hard-sided and can be locked is considered TSA-approved in most cases.
You should always carry the proper gun case when traveling. It is not illegal to carry firearms on the flight, but you need to carry them in the right type of TSA-approved case. Also, you must have a filled and approved form announcing the firearm(s).
Q: How Do I Know If My Gun Is TSA Approved?
Once you bring the gun case to the check-in counter, the TSA will examine its contents. You will be asked to sign a declaration form, and it will be put inside the gun case once signed.
Any firearm that is not mentioned in the declaration will be enough to trigger felony charges for the person carrying it.
Q: What Is An Ideal Gun Case For Traveling?
Any gun case that is hard-sided and can be locked is considered ideal for air travel.
You will need to declare each firearm in the case to avoid criminal charges.
Conclusion
Despite the regulations, Americans carry their firearms without any complications every year. The TSA regulations are straightforward if you have a suitable case and know the rules. Once you’ve declared the unloaded guns, it is a smooth process.
The only thing you’ll need to carry your firearm on your next trip is a TSA-approved gun case and a declaration form.
