chollie

Perhaps my post wasn't entirely clear.

I haven't used (or claimed a replacement for) a "TSA-approved' travel lock (or any other lock) for several years now.

I use a regular small combination lock on my carry-on bags when I go through the checkpoint.

I use zip ties on any checked bags. I haven't had a zip tie cut or removed yet.

If someone gets in my bag, it is probably TSA,because unlike baggage handlers, TSA has xray vision and no one will be suspicious if a TSO is seen rifling through a bag - unlike baggage handlers, who don't know if there's anything in the bag worth stealing and who definitely look suspicious if they are seen inside a bag.

TSA's preferred method of access, IME, is bolt cutters. I have never had a lock that TSA removed replaced on the bag by TSA. Most of the time, the lock 'disappeared'; twice the cut lock was placed in my bag. Once someone else's cut lock appeared in my bag (along with someone else's socks).

If TSA is going to cut my lock off and not replace it, it is easier and just as secure for me to use zip ties.

That's what works best for me in my travels.

Near Philly

Well said Roadie.
I put the half-life up to 4 flights IF the hires were off gas pumps and not pizza boxes.
You have to push buttons and stuff to pump gas.

cordelli

If they cut it in the wrong place, there's no way for them to attach it back onto the bag when they are done, so you won't be getting the body of the lock back.

You will have replacement shackles and no lock.

If they are kind enough to toss it in the bag for you, that's a different story, but unless you attach the body to the bag too, if they don't cut it where they are supposed to cut it, and put it back on knowing they can cut it and relock it, you are not going to have anything to put the new shackle on.

The lock is a great idea, but given the way they cut tsa locks and toss them, I don't have hopes this will be a much better track record.

Sam I Am

If the point is just to see if they have opened your lock, I've had remarkable success with the Searchalert locks (from PrestoLock) - granted, they need the key to open them - but you know when they do.

http://www.cclsecurity.com/products/searchalert/

a1derer

I guess it all comes down to asking the TSA to do what's easiest. They have bolt cutters, and they know how to use them, so why not go with it?

The most worrisome thing is I've been able to open a SearchAlert lock with a bent paperclip (bend the last 3-4mm at a right angle, insert into the "master key" slot, and jiggle it around a little. You will be surprised how easy it is!). This ClipLok is supposedly pick proof (has anybody tried to pick one yet? - I would be interested to hear the results).

Sure, if the TSA cut any type of lock off, and fail to place it back in your luggage (supposedly, along with a search advice), then the choice of locks is obviously irrelevant. If you feel this is the most likely result of most TSA searches, then I guess a $2.00 lock, offering at least a semblance of security, is the way to go.

This however is not my experience so far. On both occasions that my ClipLok lock has been clipped, it has been replaced correctly (maybe I was lucky enough to get ex pump attendants searching my luggage ...)

Another thought - if a SearchAlert lock is cut off, the lock becomes worthless, so the screeners will merely trash it. Technically, I guess they should be placing it back in the bag from which it was removed, but as a piece of trash, there's a pretty good argument for binning it on the spot.

AisleSitter

It should be noted that this lock does not allow you to set your own combination. It comes preset from the factory with a random combination that cannot be changed. Don't buy it if you want to set your own combination.

nmh1204

I know this is an old thread, but has anyone had any experience with this lock?
I've not found much on them, or where to buy them.