I am just curious because on the way to Japan, one of our checked in luggage (locked with a small lock) had an inserted printed note that from TSA that stated our luggage had been randomly inspected. Lock was not broken. Nothing was taken. That is only 1 of 6 checked in luggages.

On the way back, I brought back some souvenir knives inside one of the checked in luggages. I wrapped them in clear plastic and used clear tape all around. Placed it near the zipper (locked) so that it will be easy to take them out in case I cant check them in. No problem with checking them in.

When we picked up our luggages at LAX, all lockes are intact. When we got home, the luggage, that had the knives was still sealed. However, the knives were moved to the bottom of the luggage. That could have not shifted that far just by the airplane movement. But no TSA note. At least it was not confiscated.

Second luggage had a TSA note, but nothing was taken.

So, how were they able to get into the luggages without cutting the locks? Just wondering.

I'm pretty sure that the 'TSA Approved' locks all can be opened with a common key.

Other cheap/small locks often can be opened with a micro screw driver since it's just the end of the key that actually unlocks it (looks like a plain screw that the end of the key turns) and the simple key design either fits and allows it to turn or it doesn't - kind of the old school lock version. Keeps random people from messing with your stuff, but anyone that wants to get in can do so easily.

Shawn

quote:

Originally posted by sreding:
I'm pretty sure that the 'TSA Approved' locks all can be opened with a common key.

This ^^^^^

Some TSA Approved locks even have built-in telltales that tell the owner those keys have been used.

TSA, btw, is supposed to leave a note that they've opened and inspected your luggage.

The short answer is yes, they have keys for all the 'tsa recognized' locks. Saves them from having to cut them if they need to get into your bag.

Not to mention that anyone else can still get in your locked bag and rummage around. This might explain why there was no tag on your way home. They may have been looking for more valuable stuff.

So that is what that “TSA approved” sign on the lock packaging is for.

Skull, that video you posted is very alarming. First time I have seen that video.

quote:

Originally posted by Skull Leader:
Not to mention that anyone else can still get in your locked bag and rummage around.

Unless your bag has an anchor for the lock, as does mine. Then they'll still be able to get in, but they won't be able to re-close it.

An anchor? That is a good feature. I've also seen where folks will secure any valuables they have to check in a lockbox cable locked to the frame of the suitcase so at least they can't just reach in and take the stuff out. They're gonna have to work a little bit for it.

Probably should refer to it as a m'aster k-ey.

This is also why you don't use TSA locks on gun cases.

quote:

Originally posted by fvyellowbird:
The short answer is yes, they have keys for all the 'tsa recognized' locks. Saves them from having to cut them if they need to get into your bag.

And in our experience, even if you do have a TSA approved lock, they still might cut it, leave it in your now unlocked bag, with the note.

But they do have the ultimate master key, bolt cutters.

FIFY

quote:

Originally posted by fvyellowbird:
The short answer is yes, they have keys for all the 'tsa recognized' locks. Saves them from having to cut them if they need to get into your bag and steal your stuff.

I say yes, several people here said impossible !

All I know is that I had three padlocks with three different keys in my checked luggage.

they opened two and relocated the mags , within the suit case , they opened the third and relocated the gun .

I think some people here thought that I was making stuff up

I don’t bother locking my bag - no point in having wrecked luggage AND something missing.
Zippers are pretty easy to split open, fabric easy to cut.

I use zip ties. It slows down a casual thief and the zippers don't accidentally come open.
Cheaper than TSA locks.

Bruce

This message has been edited. Last edited by: RNshooter,

I always assumed the number on TSA locks corresponded to the TSA key if more than one key is needed. Like the lock that says TSA 1 uses key 1.

So, according to a buddy who deals with some stuff, but isn't above pulling my leg (but this has worked for me)

TSA locks are easily gimmicked with pens, etc - but sharps are very controlled in luggage areas. As such, heavy, colored zip ties, and pelican cases, are a rather secure form of luggage.

Ah, the Totally Stupid Assholes...

They saved the world last week when they took away my bottle of hand sanitizer...

Guess that's how "baggage handlers" have been stealing all sorts of things for decades. Same method, different class of thieves.

OK, seriously, what did you think TSA lock meant? This is decade and a half old news. It’s why you are supposed to NOT use them on gun cases.