I always used to pack a pocket knife in my checked luggage when travelling, but now that I'm travelling with carry-on bags only, security restrictions prevent me from bringing a pocket knife.
Is there a good substitute for a pocket knife that has a good selection of tools (for example, screwdrivers, bottle opener, small scissors), but no knives, so it is legal to carry on board?
I believe what you're looking for is called the Knifeless Leatherman.
I've had a bicycle Y-wrench, about three inches across, small enough to forget in my pocket, refused. They did let me mail it to myself, which was approximately the same cost as replacing it.
Scissors are definitely a no-no. About a dozen years ago I traveled with my 80-year-old mother. She had a small scissors caught inside the lining of her purse, about the size of the scissors blade of a Swiss-army knife. It showed on the X-ray, and the bag made multiple passes through the machine until they managed to find it and confiscate it.
I agree with the observation that ANYTHING tool-like is likely not to make it.
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