Firearms Transport Guide
By The Case Place Team · Updated April 2026 · 8 min read
Transporting firearms requires cases that are lockable, durable, and sized to the specific firearm. Whether you're flying with a rifle, driving to the range with an AR-15, or storing long guns securely, the right hard case makes the difference between a legal, protected transport and an unnecessary headache.
TL;DR — Quick Answer
For AR-15s and carbines, the Pelican 1720 (42" interior) is the gold standard. For pistols, the Pelican 1400 or 1500. For precision rifles over 50", the Pelican 1750. All Pelican cases include TSA-compliant lock hasps. Available at surplus prices at The Case Place.
Airline Rules for Firearms in Hard Cases
TSA requires firearms to be transported in checked baggage in a locked hard-sided case. The case must be completely secure so the firearm cannot be accessed. The firearm must be unloaded. You must declare it at check-in.
All Pelican cases include stainless steel lock hasps that accept standard padlocks. For firearms cases, TSA actually recommends using a non-TSA-approved lock — meaning only you have the key. Unlike regular luggage, TSA cannot require you to open a firearms case for inspection; they must contact you if they need access.
Best Cases by Firearm Type
🎯 AR-15, Carbines, and Tactical Rifles
Pelican 1720 Rifle Case
Interior: 42" × 13.5" × 6" | Rolling Wheels | Waterproof | Dual Lock Hasps
The Pelican 1720 is the benchmark for AR-15 and carbine transport. The 42" interior fits a standard AR-15 with a standard stock without disassembly. It includes pick-and-pluck foam for a custom fit, stainless steel hasps for two padlocks, and rolling wheels for easy transport through airports. TSA-approved for checked airline baggage.
🔫 Pistols and Handguns
Pelican 1400 or 1500 Series
1400 Interior: 11.81" × 8.87" × 5.18" | Lockable | Waterproof
For handguns, the Pelican 1400 holds a full-size pistol with a spare magazine comfortably with custom foam. The 1500 provides more room for a pistol plus accessories and cleaning kit. Both include lock hasps and meet airline requirements for checked firearms transport.
🎯 Precision Rifles and Bolt Actions
Pelican 1750 Long Case
Interior: 50.5" × 13.5" × 6.5" | Rolling Wheels | Waterproof
Precision rifles with scopes often exceed 50" assembled. The Pelican 1750 provides the extra length needed for scoped bolt-actions, suppressed rifles, and precision shooting setups with bipods. Also fits most shotguns at any barrel length.
Foam Setup for Firearms
Never store a loaded firearm. All firearms should be unloaded before placing in any case.
Protect the optic first. Design your foam cutout so the scope or red dot has clearance — it should not contact foam on the objective bell or turrets. The receiver and stock can contact foam directly.
Include a desiccant pack. A Pelican desiccant canister or silica gel pack placed in the case prevents moisture buildup during storage — important in humid climates and for long-term storage.
Use the pick-and-pluck method for complex setups. AR-15s with accessories (lights, grips, optics) have irregular shapes that benefit from custom pick-and-pluck foam more than pre-cut foam.
⚖️ Legal Note: Firearms transport laws vary by state, airline, and country. Always verify current TSA regulations, airline policies, and destination state laws before traveling with firearms. The Case Place provides case recommendations only and is not a legal authority on firearms transport regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will an AR-15 fit in a Pelican 1720 without disassembly?
Yes — a standard AR-15 with a collapsible or fixed stock fits in the 1720's 42" interior assembled. An AR-15 with a 16" barrel and collapsed stock is typically around 32–35" overall. Add a suppressor and you may need to partially disassemble.
Can I use a surplus Pelican case for airline firearm transport?
Yes — as long as all latches function properly and the case can be locked with a padlock. TSA cares about security, not cosmetics. A Grade A/B surplus Pelican with working latches and a padlock meets TSA requirements.
How many padlocks do I need?
TSA requires the case to be locked. The Pelican 1720 has two lock hasps — use two padlocks for maximum security. Single-hasp cases need at least one. Use standard padlocks (not TSA-approved) for firearms cases.