Will the Tactical Marker Make it Through Airport Security?
If you're someone who has been in the everyday carry world for more than five minutes, you’ve probably heard of the G10 Sharpie — a reinforced marker body made from ultra-durable fiberglass laminate, often built with a defensive use case in mind. Most people will often look to carry a handgun or a knife, but when going to places that you can't take those items like a stadium or an airport, it can leave you feeling defenseless.
In today's day and age, you don't know what danger may be lurking around each corner. For those of us who do not like being completely unarmed while traveling, the G10 Sharpie has become a popular low-profile personal defense tool. It's lightweight, discreet, and doesn’t set off metal detectors.
But the big question is this: Can you bring a G10 Sharpie through TSA?
What Is a G10 Sharpie?
Let’s be clear, a “G10 Sharpie” is not made by Sharpie. It’s a modified marker made with a G10 composite body — the same material used in many knife handles, firearm parts, and aerospace components.
The G10 Sharpie is:
- Extremely hard
- Non-metallic
- Resistant to temperature and moisture
In short, it’s tougher than plastic but lighter than metal. Not to mention, being that the G10 is shaped like a marker, it makes for an innocuous-looking but highly durable writing tool — one that some users choose to carry with self-defense in mind.
What Does TSA Say About the G10?
According to TSA.gov:
- Tactical pens are not allowed in carry-ons, as they are considered self-defense items.
- Markers, on the other hand, are allowed.
However, TSA policy also states:
“The final decision rests with the TSA officer on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint.”
In plain terms, if a TSA agent thinks your marker looks like a weapon, they can take it and you most likely will not get it back. It doesn’t matter if it’s non-metallic, non-lethal, or shaped like a crayon.
Our Official Recommendation
Our team at Defense Distibutors does not recommend attempting to fly with a G10 Sharpie in your carry-on baggage.
While many travelers report passing through TSA with no issues, the reality is this: G10 Sharpies exist in a legal gray area due to their materials and potential use cases. TSA agents have wide discretion, and getting flagged could delay you or result in your item being confiscated.
That said, for informational purposes only, here’s what we’ve observed.
What Usually Gets Through TSA
- G10 Sharpies that closely resemble normal markers (cap on, no tactical branding)
- No visible clips or “glass-breaker” tips
- Stored alongside pens, notebooks, or electronics
- No metal components
What Might Raise Flags
- Knurled grip, branding that says “tactical,” or obviously reinforced tips
- Stored next to knives, tourniquets, or weapons gear
- Clipped visibly to clothing or plate carriers
- Drawing attention to it during screening
Real-World Reports
We’ve had many reports of customers flying with the G10 Sharpies we carry in domestic U.S. airports with no issues when stored discreetly. It looks like a normal pen, writes like a normal pen, and has no metal content.
However, we have also received isolated reports of travelers being questioned, delayed, or asked to surrender the item. In each case, it was resolved peacefully — but again, your experience may vary.
How to Minimize Risk (If You Choose to Fly With One)
Just to be clear, this is for informational purposes only — again, this is not a recommendation.
- Cap it. Make it look like a regular Sharpie.
- Keep it with other writing tools, not with tactical gear.
- Avoid bringing attention to it during screening.
- Be prepared to surrender it if questioned.
Why People Carry the G10 Sharpie
Despite the travel risk, many users keep a G10 Sharpie as part of their daily carry for low-profile defense.
The G10 Sharpies we carry are:
- Non-metallic – won’t set off metal detectors
- Reinforced – built for impact, not fragility
- Low signature – no branding or external clip
- Practical – it still writes, which is the whole point
Final Thoughts
Tactical tools live in the space between intent and interpretation. If you’re flying, we recommend storing it in checked luggage or simply leaving it behind.
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This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always follow all TSA rules and regulations and check with local authorities if unsure.