I do not fly anywhere without a firearm (save for non-free cities such as SF and NYC).<p>This method absolutely works.<p>My luggage is a very large pelican case.<p>&gt; I&#x27;d imagine you need to check-in in a different area and not the front desk?<p>Yes, and at some airports you get your very own line (which is almost never busy). I&#x27;ve saved multiple hours at certain major airports because of the separate screening procedures&#x2F;lines.<p>Most of the time, though, you&#x27;ll just go to a normal desk, say &quot;I need a firearms declaration,&quot; and they&#x27;ll check you in as-normal, until your bag needs to be screened. At that point, you&#x27;ll go to another area, unlock the bag for the TSA (if it alarms) and receive a hand-screening.