Are you taking your precision rifle on a trip?
Whether you’re taking your chassis system to a match, hunting trip, or training course, getting there can be stressful. One error at the airport can result in thousands of dollars in fines and a ruined trip.
Let’s get into the problem:
Precisely how many times have you seen people bringing their rifles through airport security checkpoints these days? How many of them know the rules? Now think about this: TSA actually intercepted 6,678 firearms through airport security checkpoints in 2024, and the even worse news is about 94% of those firearms were loaded.
This is a disaster waiting to happen.
In this article, we will cover everything you need to transport precision rifle chassis systems safely and legally. From the proper case to TSA regulations, here are some tips and tricks to make your travels easier and less stressful in the future.
What to find out in this article:
- Choosing The Perfect Hard Case For Precision Rifle Chassis Systems To Travel With
- Familiarizing Yourself With Federal Transportation Laws
- Air Travel Requirements For Transporting Chassis Systems
- Best Practices For Ground Transportation
- Tips On How To Protect Your Optics And Accessories
Why do Precision Rifle Chassis Systems Require Extra Attention
Precision rifle chassis systems are not just another hunting rifle.
They are longer, bulkier, and more expensive. Moreover, they have a ton of fragile components which can be damaged during the process of transportation. A precision chassis from manufacturers like XLR Industries is a product which can cost you a few grand which is a serious investment that needs proper attention and care when you are traveling to competitions or training sessions.
Most chassis systems require at least 52 inches long cases. Once you add in the scope, bipod, and muzzle brake… Now you are dealing with a package that weighs 30+ pounds and costs several thousand dollars to replace if damaged.
Fortunately, there is good news:
Transporting precision rifle chassis systems is pretty easy as long as you know what gear you need and which rules you must follow.
Hard Cases Are Mandatory For Air Travel
Let’s begin with the number one mistake that shooters make:
Buying a cheap case. This can work if you are driving down to your local range, but air travel is a completely different story. Baggage handlers do not treat rifle cases with any respect, and a cheap case won’t make it through the experience.
When choosing a hard case for air travel consider the following:
- ATA Specification 300 Category 1 rating
- Solid build with reinforced corners
- Heavy-duty latches which can be locked
- Dense foam inserts that don’t compress
- Pressure relief valves for altitude changes
ATA rating tells you that this case meets the highest specification for shipping containers. They are designed to hold up to the rigors of commercial air travel and not fail.
Pelican, Nanuk, and SKB are popular hard case brands that cost more but will last years and protect thousands of dollars of equipment.
Federal Rules Every Traveler Must Know
Before we move on let’s look at something that most shooters do not know…
Federal law allows the transport of firearms across state lines and territories.
Provided you are following specific requirements. The Firearm Owners Protection Act (FOPA) allows for the legal transportation of firearms between points where it is legal to possess firearms.
The catch here?
The rifle has to be unloaded and locked in a hard-sided case that is inaccessible. Locked in the trunk of a car or in a locked container which is not a glovebox or anything else in the passenger area of a vehicle.
Restrictions like these are the reasons states like New York and New Jersey have garnered reputations for harassing travelers even though federal law should protect them. The solution is easy: follow every rule to the letter, and do not stop on long-distance trips.
TSA Regulations Are To Be Followed
Flying with your precision rifle chassis system means having to go through TSA.
Their rules are strict, and there are serious consequences for non-compliance. Civil penalties are up to $15,000 per violation. Plus the loss of TSA PreCheck for at least five years.
TSA requires the firearm to be:
- Completely unloaded (no ammunition anywhere near the firearm)
- Locked in a hard-sided container
- Declared at the airline ticket counter at the time of check-in
- Checked baggage ONLY
The passenger must retain the key or combination. TSA will not be forced to open the case, but the airline will insist on access in case of issues. Firearms must never be packed in carry-on luggage. Not even once. Not even accidentally.
Ammunition must be packed in its original packaging, or in a container specifically designed to hold ammunition. Magazine and clips have to be boxed or secured in the hard case.
Protect Your Optics During Transport
Precision scopes are expensive, sometimes even as much as some rifles are.
Dropping a scope or exposing it to extreme temperature changes ruins the internal adjustments. This makes optics protection just as important as rifle protection during transportation.
Best practices include:
- Remove scope caps and install protective lens covers
- Foam inserts should cradle the scope body without pressure on the turrets
- Some shooters prefer to remove scopes for transport and pack them separately in padded cases
Temperature changes are the enemy in this regard. Entering a heated vehicle and heading out into sub-zero weather (or vice-versa) causes condensation inside the scope tube. Wait for the equipment to acclimate to new temperatures slowly.
Rifle scopes are allowed both in carry-on and checked baggage, per TSA regulations. But carrying expensive optics in checked bags is asking for trouble. Try and keep scopes in carry-on bags whenever possible for easier control.
Ground Transportation Strategies
Not every trip will involve flying.
Road trips with precision rifle chassis systems have different rules to air travel. But still require attention to legal details and equipment care.
State laws vary widely on vehicle transport of firearms. Some states require firearms to be unloaded and cased. Others demand locked containers. A few even have specific ammunition storage rules.
The safest approach for ground transportation is:
- Keep firearms unloaded at all times
- Use a locked hard case even for short trips
- Store ammunition separately from the rifle
- Put cases in the trunk or rear cargo area
- Never make extended stops in restrictive states
Interstate travel is protected under federal law as long as the trip is continuous and unbroken. This means no sightseeing stops or overnight stays in states with restrictive laws. Drive through and don’t stop except for fuel, food, or emergencies.
Chassis-Specific Considerations
Modular chassis systems present unique transport challenges.
Detachable magazines, adjustable stocks, and accessory rails need securing for transport. Loose parts can shift during travel and damage other components or the case interior.
Remove or secure all accessories that can come loose. This includes:
- Bipods (unless locking firmly)
- Magazine extensions
- Weight kits/balance systems
- Rail-mounted accessories
- Adjustable cheek risers
Some shooters prefer partially disassembling chassis systems for transport. Removing the barreled action from the chassis saves space and adds protection. Just ensure all parts are properly padded and labeled for reassembly.
Documentation And Paperwork
Let’s talk about one thing which nobody bothers with…
Having the proper documentation can help you avoid major problems during your travels. This is especially true when it comes to crossing state lines or dealing with the police.
Make sure you are carrying copies of firearm registrations, purchase receipts, and any required permits. For NFA items such as suppressors, keep tax stamps readily available.
Competition shooters should carry match invitations or registration confirmations. This will prove the legal purpose for transporting firearms and help out if issues arise.
Wrapping It Up
Transporting precision rifle chassis systems doesn’t need to be a stressful experience.
The key is to prepare for the trip in advance. Invest in quality hard cases that meet ATA specifications. Familiarize yourself with federal and state laws along your entire route. Follow TSA regulations to the letter if you are flying. Protect your expensive optics with the same level of care as you would the rifle itself.
Getting caught unprepared at an airport or during a traffic stop can make a trip go awry in seconds. But by following these guidelines, safe and legal transportation is possible every time.
