When you put a gun in your bag, there are special tracking and security procedures in place to safeguard it. No one is going to mess with the luggage (of the TSA and handlers) because they know that the bag is under tighter supervision. It is sufficient to bring a starter gun for athletics. It does not need to be a real gun. Do a search for gun and there will be posts that explain the process. Personally, I'd find it too involved. Not worth it.

Till