When will this crap end?

If I was in this guy's shoes, I certainly would have caused a scene. I would have requested the TSA Screening Manager; if that didn't work, I would either consult with the airport police for potential assistance and speak with the security liason with the carrier I am flying.

If this means a missed flight (providing I am not in a hurry), so be it. A camera is not a weapon and for them to not allow the camera or the camera case through because it looks like a "zippo" means common sense does not exist. As it is, zippos and bic lighters get through security checkpoints and into the sterile area of on a daily basis anyhow.

At least he had the FedEx option, but this makes no excuse for the stupid decisions these fools are making.

If absolutely necessary, I would have just burried it in my luggage somewhere and cleared security at another checkpoint; considering the TSA can't catch GUNS at some checkpoints including SDF/Louisville recently, I would think a 100% legal camera would get through at another checkpoint. It's not like I'm advocating using another checkpoint to get a weapon or prohibited item through, just a bloody camera and case of all things.

When sh!t like this happens one can only shake their head in disbelief at what a joke this agency has become. I appreciate the good TSA folks out there who use common sense and apply policy properly, but they really seem to be lacking at many airports.

SDF_Traveler