Tactical Pen and Airport Security (TSA): Is it Legal?

What is a Tactical Pen?

If you don’t know yet what is a tactical pen (also called self-defense pen or weapon pen), think of it as a pen that can hit really hard without hurting yourself and without breaking the pen. They are normally made of thick aluminum with a hardened hitting end. Of course, depending on the brand and model, you can find a lot of variations.

 Example: SWAT Tactical Pen – By The Atomic Bear

The most effective self-defense pens can break glass and hurt a predator badly. They will have a tungsten carbide tip and a flat end allowing you to hold it in a reverse grip.

 Holding a self-defense pen in the reverse grip for maximum impact

So basically a tactical pen not only writes well but also is an effective self-defense tool to carry with you. You can learn more about tactical pens here.

Are Tactical Pens Legal to Carry in the USA?

Although laws can change, it is legal to carry your tactical pen in the streets in most States (NYC, California, etc.) However, if your pen has a concealed blade, it may well be illegal in your State. A tactical pen with a clip can attach to your belt, your pant’s pockets, or your shirt’s pocket with style. Ideally, you want to make it easy to draw in case of danger. However, there are some institutions that might prevent you from carrying your tactical pen in their building even though it is not illegal per security regulations.

Can My Tactical Pen Pass Through TSA Security and Can I Take My Pen on an Airplane?

The TSA specifically forbids tactical pens, because they're "weapons". You can read stories about all sorts of weapons and tactical pens being confiscated here.

I cannot technically recommend that you carry a tactical pen with you on the plane, because it's against the rules. If you do, know that there is a chance it will be taken away by security.

But many people have tried. And your chances of success are high – especially if your pen looks like a normal pen.

Important: never try this with a tactical pen with a knife! This is a no and can get you in serious trouble! You can read hundreds of stories on the EDC forums.

Useful Links

TSA Guidelines: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/civil-enfo...

TSA Prohibited Items List: http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2003-...

TSA Enforcement Sanction Guidance: https://www.tsa.gov/sites/default/fil...

The Stealth Pen Pro Has Better Chances Than Most Other Tactical Pens

While the TSA will confiscate any object they consider can be dangerous, they still need to find them. Regular pens are not forbidden. So a tactical pen that looks like a regular pen will usually pass through.

That's why we designed our tactical pen, the Stealth Pen Pro, to look like a regular pen. Under X-Ray, the Stealth Pen Pro just looks like a regular high end pen with the writing tip open. 

Atomic Bear Stealth Pen Pro

Can You Carry Your Tactical Pen in Your Check-In Luggage at The Airport?

The answer to this question is yes. You can even carry a knife this way. This might allow you to bring a legal and non-lethal weapon to the country you are visiting. Some countries are making it illegal to carry the most type of useful knives. It often depends on the specs like the length of the blade or the total length of the knife.

Now a Related Question: Can I Take a Tactical Pen to School?

A self-defense pen is not a lethal weapon. So, it is a matter of judgment. If you make a big deal out of it, then who would be surprised if your teacher adds your dear utensil to his/her personal collection? However, if you use it as a legitimate pen, who could tell that you could protect yourself with it? Obviously, everybody is responsible for their action, and using a weapon, even if non-lethal, must be taken seriously. More officially, the attention is not on a tactical pen in school. Certain tactical pen do look like less aggressive, like the REBEL from The Atomic Bear, and are more recommended to bring to school or office-type work environments.

Bottom Line

With a tactical pen, your experience will vary with pens and airport security. They are technically illegal to carry on airplanes and into other secure environments. However, as long as your tactical pen looks like a pen, you might be OK.

The authorities at a security checkpoint can legally decide to confiscate your non-lethal weapon simply because it is too effective in their eyes. However, if your tactical pen looks like a pen and does not attract attention, it is very likely that you will be able to go ANYWHERE with it.

A lot of people hate traveling on airplanes because they can't take a self-defense tool with them. If that's you, then you might want to order a Stealth Pen Pro. It's designed to win fights quickly and keep you and your family safe.

To learn more about the Stealth Pen Pro, click here.