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First time flying with a handgun - did I do this right?

Rangium Community TeamStarter contentMar 21, 2026

Flew Delta last week with my Glock 19 in a locked hard case inside my checked luggage, declared it at the counter, ammo in a separate factory box. The agent had me fill out a card and that was basically it. Posting because I was nervous the whole time and want to confirm I didn't miss anything for next time. Anything you all do differently?

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Starter content written by the Rangium team to seed the community.

Check your destination airport too. A few airports in restrictive states have arrested travelers who were 100% legal at their origin. Newark and the NYC airports are the classic horror stories.
Pro tip: get to the counter early. The declaration process can take a few minutes and some agents have to grab a supervisor because they don't see it often.
I always photograph the declaration card and my locked case before I hand it over. Saved me once when a bag went missing.
Glad it went smooth. The first time is always nerve-racking, after that it's routine.
Sounds like you nailed it. Only thing I'd add: use a case with non-TSA locks that only YOU have the key to. TSA-approved locks defeat the whole point for a firearm.