Didn't realize we had a political forum going on here....

In any case, it's been a couple years so the regs may have changed, but I was able to check a handgun and ammo in the same bag a couple of different times.

Here is the process as I recall-

Handgun has to be in a lockable hard case (a cheapo plastic pistol case that can be had at a sporting goods store for $5 will do). A cheapo padlock will work too.

Ammo has to be in a factory ammo box- no loose rounds in a sock. I did not experience any round limit, had several hundred in my bag. Just be aware of weight limits. Edit- I see that NW allows you 11lbs of ammo now, or about 300 or so rounds of 9mm.

Suitcase was not locked, if I recall correctly. You may want to check regs on this.

Declare UNLOADED handgun when checking bag. Agent should give you a declaration form to fill out and place inside of bag (make sure they do not affix it to the outside- this is illegal). Don't waive the gun around the airport for others to see.

TSA agent will escort you to screening area and verify gun is unloaded. Then ask you to lock pistol case.

That is it.

Do not bring a handgun to any NYC area airport. Do not bring magazines that can hold more than 10 rounds to CA or other banned states.

Check to see if regs have changed.

Edit- I see that only the luggage has to be locked, not the pistol case according to how I read the NW website. Check with NW to be sure. www.nwa.com/travel/luggage/specialitems.html