I had to fly commercially Monday with short notice. I felt naked since my only EDC that I could carry was a Bic lighter, bandana, & couzy (very important item for a coonass).

I still feel somewhat naked because I had to leave my Leatherman on the boat also.

No, I didn't check in a bag, only a carryon bag.

I have the TSA-safe keyring Leatherman as part of my flying EDC. When I put my keyring in my bag the TSA pays no attention to it. The nail clippers have worked for me as an awkward knife when I've needed them to.

When I fly, mostly I don't check bags. That means I leave behind my pre-'04 LM Wave, silent ratcheting screwdriver, small screwdriver, and widgy bar, all of which normally ride in my laptop bag. I do not enjoy that.

At least now, the TSA Personnel finally have learned what a TWIC Card is and will accept it as legitimate Federal ID, especially since it's issued by the TSA!

Sheesh !!

When I saw the title, I took it literally.

Need another cup of coffee

Remember - Under 4-inch bladed scissors are TSA compliant.

What's a good pair of scissors (with blades under 4") that can be taken apart and used as a cutting tool in an emergency?

I carry EMT shears and a small survival saw, never have problems.

I used my Leatherman Wave's tiny scissors to trim my mustache while I'm on the boat. EMT shears would be very useful as an EDC Tool.

electrician's scissors like the Wiss 175E can cut a copper penny in two



edit... they were legal on the last list, sorry

Here is a link to the TSA prohibited lists for carry-on and checked baggage. Note that the update date is January 30.

http://www.tsa.gov/traveler-information/prohibited-items

That's the least they can do. I am very annoyed that we prepared people have to deprive ourselves of our fairly reasonable array of tools to travel by air. But this is an old argument, and I think I'll be preaching to the choir here.

I can just hear the buzz now - "Take your knife to the airport and TSA will ship it for free!" - lots of potential for abuse.

Just pack carefully and don't forget to include some addressed, stamped mailers that will hold likely items you might overlook. I have used mine on occasion.

Or better yet, just check it for you.

-john