Thanks all for the replies. Sounds like this is, as I suspected, not a normal response or solution by DL. I had heard of DL selling items such as pet carriers at the counter for anyone that showed up with a non-compliant one. (Though in the years of flying with a pet myself never once been pushed into that direction). But to sell a lock and to actually assume the liability of drilling a hole in this case? Sounds like it was more of a rogue agent that probably had good intentions, but went maybe a step too far.

I will try and find out whether it was a cash or card transaction. If it was indeed through DL, a “special services receipt” should show up in his Wallet just as it does when I pay a pet in cabin charge. I’ll look in his account later today.

Regardless, I might look into getting him a newer gun case for Christmas to prevent any possible issues going forward.