Heading out west this summer. I’m either taking a 5 or 4 inch pistol with me. My current travel safe is not going g to be what I want to use.
What are yall using for air travel that tsa doesn’t have access to?
1 Like
When I flew with my pistol, I had it in the factory hard case with a small padlock on the case, and also had the luggage zippers padlocked closed.
Iit passed muster for TSA, and my gun made it to my destination the same time I did.
8 Likes
Original Hard case is the best. If you don’t have one, Pelican V100 Pistol Case works great. Use good quality padlocks without “TSA Approved Key Access”.
3 Likes
The tsa locks are my holdup with getting a more accommodating safe.
First major point: TSA locks are not required, although TSA does “recommend” them. (I would never use one!)
Second point: if the case, especially OEM plastic like the nice ones S&W used to provide with new handguns, have lock loops on two corners, you must have padlocks on both corners.
As for the case itself, Harbor Freight has decent metal handgun cases with key locks and sturdy cables. I use the cable to lock the case to an internal strut of the suitcase.
I use the same cable-case in my car, either under the front seat and cabled to the seat hardware, or in the trunk.
4 Likes
That’s why recommend Pelican V100.
Don’t look for case with built-in locks
You want loops in corners to secure your case with either padlocks or cables.
Make it simple and sturdy. TSA approval is not required for travel gun safe.
@Craig_AR got a good idea how to properly secure it
2 Likes
I do use the cable to secure the safe to the supports inside the luggage. My current is a bit heavy and I’m thinking of trying a little smaller and lighter safe.
2 Likes
In this case look into “Cedar Mill Pick & Pluck Pistol Case”.
Lightweight (little bit over 1lb) and will accept 5 in handgun with 2 mags.
It’s made from polypropylene, gets locking holes and fits TSA safety requirements.
1 Like
Update on Harbor Freight cases:
Rather than the metal one-gun case I have, they now have a set of several sizes that mimic Pelican cases at possibly lower quality but definitely lower cost. Look for Apache gun cases at Harbor Freight. All are sturdy plastic, totally customizable interior foam, and two-corner lock holes.
4 Likes
So now @Jamey1 has got few options.
Price vs. weight 
- simply choice, whatever works better for his application
2 Likes
@Jerzees @Craig_AR a trying to balance size and weight is my idea….we all know how that can work….like any plan good till first contact.
Thanks I got a couple ideas from this should work.
4 Likes
At the end of the day, if someone is going to steal your firearm in transit, they’re gonna get it! The only “safe” way to fly with a gun would be to have it on your hip!
The sheeple don’t like that though, 
Just follow the rules or not only will you loose your gun, you’ll catch charges as well!
2 Likes
I agree….a safe and a locked door serve the same purpose…..keep an honest person honest
1 Like