Originally Posted by
StanSimmons
I use federal law to prevent the smurfs from stealing from my checked luggage. I fly with "firearms" packed in my luggage. This is fully legal in all 50 states and in some cases, overseas.
I have hard sided cases with strong hinges and good (non TSA approved) locks. I put a flare gun in each of my checked bags. At check in, I tell the airline agent that I have unloaded firearms in my bags and need to fill out the declaration forms for FAR 1544.293. Once that is complete, it is a Federal offense for anyone, even the TSA, to open the luggage without me being present.
I can't find that statute so was hoping you could help me do so.
All I can find on the subject is 49 C.F.R. section 1544.203(f), which provides:
(f) Firearms in checked baggage. No aircraft operator may knowingly permit any person to transport in checked baggage:
(1) Any loaded firearm(s).
(2) Any unloaded firearm(s) unless—
(i) The passenger declares to the aircraft operator, either orally or in writing before checking the baggage that any firearm carried in the baggage is unloaded;
(ii) The firearm is carried in a hard-sided container;
(iii) The container in which it is carried is locked, and only the individual checking the baggage retains the key or combination; and
(iv) The checked baggage containing the firearm is carried in an area that is inaccessible to passengers, and is not carried in the flightcrew compartment,.
(3) Any unauthorized explosive or incendiary.
http://law.justia.com/cfr/title49/49....3.5.10.3.10.1
I see nothing about it being a federal offense for anyone else opening your bag without you being present.