Air Travel - Should I be concerned about my handgun being stolen by Non-TSA bag handlers?

Miscellaneous
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I may be over thinking this, but I have heard of weapons being stolen from with in the baggage handling system. I am not concerned so much (I think) about TSA handlers, but airline and handlers. Who is responsible for my weapon after I properly declare it (TSA rules) at the counter? If it comes up missing who do I call, TSA, the airline, the police?
Are there any steps that might be taken to avoid loss in the first place? I wonder is there an airline that is 2nd amendment friendly.
Reciprocity is no value to me if I can’t, with confidence, travel without my handgun because it might get swiped by some baggage handler at some layover in xxxx international airport.
HELP ME

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2

Missing luggage is reported to the carrier. Yes, luggage goes missing. However, with the time constraints the luggage handlers are operating under and the checks within the luggage handling system, your bag is much more likely to end up in the wrong flight than be stolen. Even that is extremely rare.

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To the best of my knowledge & experience the luggage with declared firearms goes down a different conveyor where TSA does their thing.
After that it’s put back in the queue with, generally, no exterior notice that it contains a firearm. My hard sided handgun case goes in my suitcase.
Long gun cases are noticeable, but that also works against a thief.

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4

Saw a segment on Outdoor Chanel where the Vet/presenter locks his firearm well.

Not a guarantee, but possible deterrent: Good trigger lock, locking cases, separate the slide or bolt but into another locked case, cover the locked cases so it’s less obvious/less attractive to thieves;

Bring your least expensive firearm in case it’s stolen, buy gun insurance, if stolen — immediately notify the police both local and in your home state;

Always have your serial number(s) with you.

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5

Thanks ALL
I thought about making the locked case less attractive…maybe put Hello Kitty stickers on it (LOL).
I also like the idea of storing my hard case (locked) in my suitcase…did not know that was an option.

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6

The few times I’ve flown with firearms I’ve not had a problem with the case in my luggage. As long as it’s declared on check in the TSA will get it.
Admittedly those times were all at major airports.
If you’re flying out of Podunk City I can’t tell you their routine.

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I have never had a problem. Doesn’t mean that won’t change but I’m not aware of any.

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It is my understanding after speaking with folks involved with security at the airport that firearms are logged and checked off lists each time they transit out of and into someone else’s possession, throughout the entire travel route.
With this means of handling, a firearm should never get Lost/Stolen/Mis-routed once you have it checked in.

There is extensive CCTV security in all parts of the airport, as much as at a casino.

I think you should be fine.

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