It isn't just unlocked! Last time I flew the case had to be tagged as containing a firearm. (Read, "Steal me!) After it's stolen it's your tough luck, the airline ain't going to pay for it! All this is assuming they don't smash it before somebody steals it. I once had a hard case in the center of a duffel bag of clothing and they totaled the case, nearly got the pistol.
To give a little credit to the baggage handlers, they may wait until it's lost before they steal it.
Drive, if at all practical. Or ship it to yourself. That will cost less than overweight charges if you have to put it in an extra container.
(And the airlines gripe because people try to carry on their baggage, like it's some deep mystery why they do it! I used to travel with umpty thousand in photo gear, no way it goes in the hold.))
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