Does anybody know how the airlines would react to somebody with a stripped lower?  Do you have to declare & check it in like other firearms or would you be allowed to carry it on yourself?  

If the BATFE consider's it a firearm, I would suggest you go the extra mile and have it declared. Just my $.02....

- Clint

TECHNICALLY, the lower receiver of an AR - the part carrying the serial number - is considered a firearm and, given the severe penalties for packing an undeclared firearm in your bag, I'd just go ahead & declare the thing and be done with it.  I fly a great deal with a firearm in my suitcase & generally I have no problems.  I just deal with it quietly and professionally and I seldom have issues.  

One final word: If they don't want to give you the firearms declaration and tell you to just go ahead through TSA security, MAKE SURE that you have the ticket agents name.  If TSA gives you problems - sorry, most of them are little better than idiots - you'll be able to refer them back to the ticket agent who gave you the bum steer!

Oh, and have it in a hard, lockable case with a padlock!

Quoted: Does anybody know how the airlines would react to somebody with a stripped lower?  Do you have to declare & check it in like other firearms or would you be allowed to carry it on yourself?

If you take it carry on there is chance that the TSA guys won't even know what it is.  On the other hand, if one does, you better have a good supply of vasoline for your stay in prison.  Treat it just like you would a fully assembled & functioning firearm, or risk the consequences.  (sp?)