As the title suggests, I'm after recommendations for a (affordable) TSA approved multi-tools that I can legally take on a plane. Basically, something that doesn't contain a blade and isn't likely to be used as a weapon.
Thanks!
Searching for TSA Approved Multi Tools
L[Deactivated] on 23/11/2023 - 13:12
Comments
Yeah, and it even varies widely from agent to agent. I had been going through airport security for years with a 'wallet ninja' before it got taken off me on my last flight (hence I'm here).
I require a multitool though, so I'd nonetheless appreciate recommendations for an affordable one.
I bought 5 or 6 utili-key knock offs for about $2 each. They get confiscated about 1 in 4 flights, but I am not too upset at that price.
Maybe a gerber shard, there are knock off versions on Aliexpress cheap. I think even a plain pair of pliers would be confiscated occasionally by over zealous security.Yep, and it's all security theatre - you can pass through security, buy a bottle of wine, then start slashing throats…
Even though a tool may be marketed as 'TSA Approved' at the end of the day, it's up to the Airport Security Employee (and their mood on the the day).
Are you not checking in luggage? Whenever I've travelled with multi-tools or Swiss Army knives, I've always packed them in my checked luggage. Never needed them on board during a flight.
If I survive the crash in the Andes/Himalayas, I'll pillage the luggage.Nope, I fly very frequently for work for just a couple of days. To minimise time at the airport, and to save money, I use only carry-on as much as possible. Unfortunately, I often need a multitool for my work.
That makes sense. Cheers.
I recommend getting one of these for your keys: https://www.gerbergear.com.au/shard.html
TSA approved, well made and cheap. Not exactly a multitool but it can open boxes, beers and the screwdrivers are passable.
That looks like a great addition to my keychain. I would still like a bigger one, but this will definitely help if the bigger one gets confiscated. Thanks!
it's not really a tool if it can get through security.
If you're going onto site, just check and fill out the toolbox declaration
I had been flying with a wallet ninja for years before an over-zealous agent took it. Prior to that, several inspected it but cleared it. The agent who took it appeared to be a newbie so I'm guessing that's why.
I'll grab another of those because they're only $5, so I can afford to lose one every few years, lol. Still, I've got a small, traditional (swiss army style) multi-tool currently where, if I were able to get the blade out (I can't), I'm sure would pass security - you simply can't harm someone with it lest you throw it at them. It was only <$15, and if I can find the same without the blade, I'd be cheerin'
I once forgetfully took a pair of Swiss-Tech tiny pliers with a philips head and flat blade driver on my carry on and was pulled out of line and made to remove it and throw it in their bin before they would pass my luggage. Their reason "It could be used to dismantle part of the plane". (Like I was going to use it to unbolt the door or loosen the wing…)
And I just remembered being pulled out of line and asked to remove a "tactical whistle" (it blows about 120+dB). After much (pointless) arguing, i was told that it had to go. A whistle…
So, from my experience, when it comes to any tool, the safe answer is "none".
With that being said, my tactical pen with "DNA catcher" and torch with tungsten carbon pointed tip along with my plastic "fist bracer" are ok it seems… :/
BUT! When I volunteer at the school, I am not allowed to have any knives outside of the grounds keepers shed, so what I carry is a Leatherman "Knife-less" Rebar. You would 100% NOT be able to take this on a plane, because it has tiny little scissors, but it would be ok to carry in public because it has no knife in it.
In my experience there is little consistency between different security screenings, and things that might pass US TSA rules might not pass AU domestic, or Malay security etc.
I would be reluctant to carry any costly tool on board. Maybe a key ring pry tool or similar.