Carry type and transport preference while traveling by air

[AirOpsMgr]

While I travel frequently, I've only taken a firearm by air on a couple of occasions years ago. Some upcoming work will have me in South TX for extended periods and I've heard tales of cartel / gang violence in the area, so I think I might pack a pistol.

Option 1: one of my 1911's w/IWB and couple spare mags
Option 2: USP .45 w/OWB and an extra mag

Due to the expected 105ish temps and anticipated sweat, along with carry capacities, both options have their pros and cons ... which would you choose?

As for the packaging for transport in checked bags, I have several TSA approved cases along with the needed key-type locks and some combo locks, but I'm thinking about picking up one of those smaller vault cases with the built in combo or print reader. Anyone have a particular case that they've found works well for air travel?

 

[Gunsite Grad]

USP & several mags

 

[AtlMedic]

Well it's Texas so I think the 1911 would be the most fitting.

 

[AirOpsMgr]

I was kinda leaning toward the 1911 since it's thinner and wouldn't print, but then capacity takes a hit. USP is heavier, but more capacity, but will print a bit.

Just have to decide which trade-off

 

[1776]

I was kinda leaning toward the 1911 since it's thinner and wouldn't print, but then capacity takes a hit. USP is heavier, but more capacity, but will print a bit.

Just have to decide which trade-off

If only someone on here had some sort of bastard HK with a slimmer grip than a USP and higher capacity than a 1911...

 

[AirOpsMgr]

If only someone on here had some sort of bastard HK with a slimmer grip than a USP and higher capacity than a 1911...

Yeah, yeah ... trust me, it's on my list...

Up until the ceiling pipe leak fiasco last week, my gun fund was almost to the point where I could buy such a gat

 

[Jake]

Hmmmmm, let's see, an HK or a 1911? That's a tough one. NOT! Obviously the 1911 is the clear winner here. The 1911 is always the winner. The decision should be between Commander, full size, or my favorite, the CCO.

 

[Laces_Out_Marino]

thats a tough one. I love my HK's but with temps that high I would want something smaller and lighter, but if you are worried about cartel violence then capacity is probably your best friend. ok..... HK

 

[dial1911]

If I were really worried about Cartel violence, I'd want a squad sized group with air support.

Given the slim likelihood of that happening, I'd go with the USP probably.

 

[Hayata]

Which one do you shoot the best?

If equal I would still go with the 1911 just 'cause, well 1911 and all. And practice mag changes...

 

[1776]

Hmmmmm, let's see, an HK or a 1911? That's a tough one. NOT! Obviously the 1911 is the clear winner here. The 1911 is always the winner. The decision should be between Commander, full size, or my favorite, the CCO.

When I hear people bash a particular brand of gun, especially a brand known for accuracy and longevity, all I can think is that they need formal instruction in pistol marksmanship.

 

[Jake]

When I hear people bash a particular brand of gun, especially a brand known for accuracy and longevity, all I can think is that they need formal instruction in pistol marksmanship.

And you're assuming I don't? I'm not gonna sit here and brag, but ask anyone who's ever shot with me about my pistol marksmanship.

Besides, I was just giving AirOps a hard time, Sally.

 

[1776]

And you're assuming I don't? I'm not gonna sit here and brag, but ask anyone who's ever shot with me about my pistol marksmanship.

Besides, I was just giving AirOps a hard time, Sally.

@karlvv said the last time he shot with you ended with you shooting his neighbors dog...I mean, his wife has happy, but damn dude...

 

[karlvv]

@karlvv said the last time he shot with you ended with you shooting his neighbors dog...I mean, his wife has happy, but damn dude...

Kegogi.......yummmmm.

 

[AirOpsMgr]

Hmmmmm, let's see, an HK or a 1911? That's a tough one. NOT! Obviously the 1911 is the clear winner here. The 1911 is always the winner. The decision should be between Commander, full size, or my favorite, the CCO.

lol, the 1911 in consideration is a fast back

 

[Jake]

lol, the 1911 in consideration is a fast back

2nd best option behind the CCO. You should go with that one.

 

[Mac11FA]

Not sure if you will be able to transport ammo since the airport shooting in FL. Here is a link to the TEA on declaring. The 1911 sounds like the better choice. It is obviously whatever you are most comfortable with and perform best with. If you are questioning mag capacity them maybe the HK. Select best carry option for comfort for the temps. Might consider soft side holster over kydex holster. Also, can you carry on the job or only off? In other words, will gun be in vehicle during the day?

 

[AirOpsMgr]

Not sure if you will be able to transport ammo since the airport shooting in FL. Here is a link to the TEA on declaring. The 1911 sounds like the better choice. It is obviously whatever you are most comfortable with and perform best with. If you are questioning mag capacity them maybe the HK. Select best carry option for comfort for the temps. Might consider soft side holster over kydex holster. Also, can you carry on the job or only off? In other words, will gun be in vehicle during the day?

They didn't hassle me over ammo, the ticket agent only asked if I had ammo and how much. I decided on the HK w/owb (shirt will cover fully).

Can't carry at the job, will be in the hotel safe when I can't carry. I could cable lock the case to the inside of the rental but don't want to risk a prepared thief with bolt cutters

 

[Mac11FA]

They didn't hassle me over ammo, the ticket agent only asked if I had ammo and how much. I decided on the HK w/owb (shirt will cover fully).

Can't carry at the job, will be in the hotel safe when I can't carry. I could cable lock the case to the inside of the rental but don't want to risk a prepared thief with bolt cutters

If you have to leave in rental, place in vault in trunk where spare tire is. Out of sight, out of mind.

 

[AirOpsMgr]

So Delta has a new policy that they put a big ass zip tie on your bag upon arrival at your destination to temporarilly prevent access......