Falcon has it right. All employee's must be screened to enter the Secure Area, even the flight crew. Only Flight Crews who have been authorized (FFDO) may carry fire arms, not many do. http://www.tsa.gov/lawenforcement/programs/ffdo.shtm

I do recall hearing about a Pilot who had a "conversation" with a TSA agent who was going to confiscate his nail clippers and the pilot calmly said that was ok cause if he really wanted to do something he would just use the Fire Axe in the Flight Compartment!

Main issue is knives. Mechanics can bring tools but it is a pain having to deal with it everyday. Glad I don't have to go through security often. The airport security office will give you training when you go to get your SIDA badge and should tell you what is prohibited.

This article did make me smile though!

http://www.theatlantic.com/doc/200811/airport-security