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Archery and martial arts equipment on a plane

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Check the equipment before packing

At US security checkpoints, TSA prohibits bows, arrows and martial arts weapons in carry-on bags. Its listings allow these items in checked baggage. Put them in a closed case and check the airline's rules for a large sports case before travel. If your journey starts outside the US, use the departure airport's security rules instead.

Bow and arrows

Pack a bow with its arrows in a protective case. Cover the arrowheads and keep the arrows from shifting. TSA's checked-bag allowance concerns security screening; the airline decides how to accept a case that exceeds its usual baggage dimensions.

Sharp and blunt training equipment

Sheath or securely wrap the points of throwing stars so baggage handlers and inspectors can handle the bag safely. Secure the handles of nunchucks, and contain billy clubs so they cannot strike other contents. TSA lists each of these as checked-bag items, not carry-on items.

Brass knuckles also have a checked-bag listing, but TSA notes that they are illegal in some US states. Check possession rules for your departure, connections and destination separately from baggage rules. TSA: complete item list.

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