I've been using them for a couple yrs, maybe just coincident but the 2 times that I used 4-ring combo lock they got lost but all my 3-ring ones are fine.

My checked pieces are Samsonite hardshell cases. I've bought the TSA approved straps and found them to be pretty good. One of them did get destroyed on its first trip but I bought it from Safe Skies Locks and they replaced it free of charge.

Can get them in some pretty lurid colours so it helps with identifying them on the carousel too.

I used a Lewis and Clarke TSA lock recently. After its first flight the shackle was kind of bent back and the lock did not open smoothly. The bag's zippers were fine. I unsuccessfully tried to bend the shackle back, and it seemed to me a pair of pliers and a screwdriver were all that might be needed to break the lock.

I may start using zip ties. But the knife I'd use to cut off the zip tie, at my destination, would be inside the bag secured by the zip tie.... :confused:

I've had two TSA locks broken with a note left inside the bag over the past four years, and I now use cable ties and have a small set of nail clippers in my carry on which are fine for cutting the ties at my destination. When I arrrived in Sydney 18mths ago I noticed the ties were cut, and no note left inside the bag. Maybe paranoid, but took the bag to customs and inspected it in their presence, and all clear. I also have additional cable ties hidden in the bottom of the bag, and I think this is good option.

After losing $20 worth of TSA locks on my cases everytime I flew, I found this page on the TSA's own site ...

http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/custome...agedlocks.shtm

Could be a cover for employee laziness, but I doubt it.

Now, I use zip ties. If they're there, no one's been in my bag. If they're gone, there should be a note inside. If there's not ... Well, fortunately that's never happened. :cool:

BA TSA locks
 

As well as buying inflight on BA. You can also buy TSA approved locks from their online shop at http://www.highlifeshop.com/

My wife and I always use them, have never been lost and the indicator has shown that the luggage has been opened on several occasion.