I have a nice metal cane I'd like to take on my trip next week. It has a stainless golf ball on the head. It's not collapsible but would fit in the overhead. Would TSA let that fly?
Canes and planes
- Thread starter Walkin Horse
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I would contact TSA
Better than getting bad info from some dude like me on a gun forum
Better than getting bad info from some dude like me on a gun forum
If they won't let you fly with it in hand, maybe you could pack it in your checked baggage and bring a foldable for the flights. You'd at least have it on your trip.
UncleEd
Member
Get a wooden cane, leave your favorite at home, avoiding any hassle at any time in your trip.
Don't fly; walk there. It's not like you don't have a cane.
As Jeremiah Johnson said to Del Gue: "sound wisdom".
I have seen and had gentlemen sit next to me on a plane with canes that at close range would probably be as effective as a handgun.
One gentleman had shaped a big, heavy pick head into sleek, bird shaped head with long beak. One could brain a big bull bison with the thing.
I saw another guy with a genuine shillelagh as a walking stick. You could cudgel a bull moose to his knees with that thing.
You can google the TSA regulations on canes and they are ostensibly allowed. But when you read the fine print it says any carry on item may be disallowed by the agent. I read those regs that the TSA has the discretion to not allow you to carry on your pocket bible.
One gentleman had shaped a big, heavy pick head into sleek, bird shaped head with long beak. One could brain a big bull bison with the thing.
I saw another guy with a genuine shillelagh as a walking stick. You could cudgel a bull moose to his knees with that thing.
You can google the TSA regulations on canes and they are ostensibly allowed. But when you read the fine print it says any carry on item may be disallowed by the agent. I read those regs that the TSA has the discretion to not allow you to carry on your pocket bible.
I carry a Cold Steel Blackthorn Walking Stick when I travel, specifically for places that carrying a gun would be way more trouble than it's worth. I've carried it from coast to coast and Europe. Just got home from two weeks in DC, Boston, and Niagra Falls, Canada. The only questions I get are "Can you go thru the detector without it?" They run it thru the XRay, and give it back. I had trouble in one place. Chicago. Had to change planes at O'Hare, necessitating a new trip thru security. Apparently some supervisor was worried I might start swinging it like a shillelagh. When I pointed out that I didn't want to get hit by any cane I'd seen in the line, nor by any of the empty stainless steel Yeti water bottles, he got his supervisor, and we came to a peaceful agreement. . .
https://www.coldsteel.com/irish-blackthorn-walking-stick/
https://www.coldsteel.com/irish-blackthorn-walking-stick/
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OP
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Men started killing each other with sticks a long time before blades or guns, yet they will take a way my little pocket knife and let a 300# man (me) board with a 3' long hardwood stick with a metal tip and some sharp #2 lead pencils.
Why do I find that so hilarious?
Why do I find that so hilarious?
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twodog max
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The best and brightest did not apply for TSA employment.
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As someone who has, at one time or another, have needed a cane and cleared people into secure facilities: wise choice. The picture of the head of that cane pretty much indicates that you don't need it for support.
Excuse me for being blunt, but what orthopedic medical degree qualifies you or any TSA agent to declare what we need or don't need for support . . . ?
Kinda like saying I don't need an AR-15 . . .
Erich
Member
Having had both some training in stick fighting as well as a hip injury since I was 16, I have been carrying canes into prisons, courthouses, airplanes, police stations and different countries for decades. I have a doctor's note for it, too - but I've never needed to show it. Of course I never carry a cane that might garner a hairy eyeball on these excursions, because I'm not an idiot.
Now, I own and carry and have carried-on and carried into different countries (and jails and prisons and police stations and secure military bases) a Canemaster Gentleman's cane that has some fighting features built in, but they're not over the top and appear decorative, not aggressive. I've never had an issue with it in these security situations. I have some other canes that would cause a raised eyebrow, and I don't mess around with them - I'm not looking for an argument; I have other business to attend.
When I have carried-on a cane lately, it's been with a collapsible aluminum cane which easily attaches to my carry-on instead of clunking around (and possibly getting forgotten) in the overhead - still a pretty good (fast!) stick given the space in which I'd be using it.
I'd be a little surprised if anyone at the airport made a fuss about the cane you describe here in the USA, although I don't have a crystal ball - but it could happen (as others have noted). Maybe you can argue your way through - I am certain that I could, but I'm a lawyer and I have a doctor's letter as well as more than a passing acquaintance with the ADA.
Here's my question: if you're thinking it might be an issue with that particular cane, why are you messing with it?
You didn't ask for advice so I'll spare you: but if you were my brother asking this question and he needed a cane or simply wanted a stick during the plane ride, I'd advise that he consider something that wouldn't attract a second glance (like the one linked below).
[ame]https://www.amazon.com/Carex-Wooden-Walking-Cane-Traditional/dp/B001QD6A90/[/ame]
Just saw your follow-up post: good idea. But if you want a stick, by all means take one - just get one that looks like what a grandma would be issued by a hospital.
Now, I own and carry and have carried-on and carried into different countries (and jails and prisons and police stations and secure military bases) a Canemaster Gentleman's cane that has some fighting features built in, but they're not over the top and appear decorative, not aggressive. I've never had an issue with it in these security situations. I have some other canes that would cause a raised eyebrow, and I don't mess around with them - I'm not looking for an argument; I have other business to attend.
When I have carried-on a cane lately, it's been with a collapsible aluminum cane which easily attaches to my carry-on instead of clunking around (and possibly getting forgotten) in the overhead - still a pretty good (fast!) stick given the space in which I'd be using it.
I'd be a little surprised if anyone at the airport made a fuss about the cane you describe here in the USA, although I don't have a crystal ball - but it could happen (as others have noted). Maybe you can argue your way through - I am certain that I could, but I'm a lawyer and I have a doctor's letter as well as more than a passing acquaintance with the ADA.
Here's my question: if you're thinking it might be an issue with that particular cane, why are you messing with it?
You didn't ask for advice so I'll spare you: but if you were my brother asking this question and he needed a cane or simply wanted a stick during the plane ride, I'd advise that he consider something that wouldn't attract a second glance (like the one linked below).
[ame]https://www.amazon.com/Carex-Wooden-Walking-Cane-Traditional/dp/B001QD6A90/[/ame]
Just saw your follow-up post: good idea. But if you want a stick, by all means take one - just get one that looks like what a grandma would be issued by a hospital.
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I have flown numerous times with this cane. It's been to Europe three times. Just put it on the belt to go through the X Ray at security. I keep it with me at my seat. Never know when you might need it.
It's a mobility device, they can't deny it. Have your doc write a prescription.
Like already stated, it does have to go down the belt unless you can't walk at all without it. Then you'd be subject to a secondary inspection.
Like already stated, it does have to go down the belt unless you can't walk at all without it. Then you'd be subject to a secondary inspection.
LoboGunLeather
US Veteran
Having had both some training in stick fighting as well as a hip injury since I was 16, I have been carrying canes into prisons, courthouses, airplanes, police stations and different countries for decades. I have a doctor's note for it, too - but I've never needed to show it. Of course I never carry a cane that might garner a hairy eyeball on these excursions, because I'm not an idiot.
Now, I own and carry and have carried-on and carried into different countries (and jails and prisons and police stations and secure military bases) a Canemaster Gentleman's cane that has some fighting features built in, but they're not over the top and appear decorative, not aggressive. I've never had an issue with it in these security situations. I have some other canes that would cause a raised eyebrow, and I don't mess around with them - I'm not looking for an argument; I have other business to attend.
When I have carried-on a cane lately, it's been with a collapsible aluminum cane which easily attaches to my carry-on instead of clunking around (and possibly getting forgotten) in the overhead - still a pretty good (fast!) stick given the space in which I'd be using it.
I'd be a little surprised if anyone at the airport made a fuss about the cane you describe here in the USA, although I don't have a crystal ball - but it could happen (as others have noted). Maybe you can argue your way through - I am certain that I could, but I'm a lawyer and I have a doctor's letter as well as more than a passing acquaintance with the ADA.
Here's my question: if you're thinking it might be an issue with that particular cane, why are you messing with it?
You didn't ask for advice so I'll spare you: but if you were my brother asking this question and he needed a cane or simply wanted a stick during the plane ride, I'd advise that he consider something that wouldn't attract a second glance (like the one linked below).
Amazon.com
Just saw your follow-up post: good idea. But if you want a stick, by all means take one - just get one that looks like what a grandma would be issued by a hospital.
Perfect response. I have never been asked a question about my old wooden cane or the tubular aluminum cane provided by VA. Nothing fancy but either one will help keep me comfortable standing in line or navigating my way around airports or courthouses.
The 5-foot long walking staff is preferred when getting to and from my favorite fishing holes, much handier for alerting the local rattlesnakes that this old fart wants to use the trail for a few minutes. Rattle the brush, wait a bit, then walk a few more steps, lean on the staff and complain about getting old, rinse and repeat.
Thanks for the link!
I run 3 miles, 3x a week.
Go to the gym regularly.
I have no need for a cane.
That being said, I am going to order one of these, and just may develop a limp the next time I fly without checking a pistol.
I have found that it depends on what airport and what TSA agent you get. I followed all regs in taking a firearm from KC to Phoenix. At KC they couldn't have been nicer and more helpful. When I got to the Phoenix Airport to return I was treated like a mass murder. The ticket agent gave me a hard time and then passed me on to a TAS agent who dumped every thing out of my suitcase before shoving it all back in. Resulting in some breakage of my stuff when I got home. Once I got to gate I was subjected to every security check know to man. Had all I wanted with flying. Been 20 years sense I last flew and the next time I fly is if someone wants to ship my casket somewhere
I've flown with a wooden cane for years had no problems with TSA. Most TSA folks have morphed in decent people, just doing a necessary job.
RudyN
Member
Having had both some training in stick fighting as well as a hip injury since I was 16, I have been carrying canes into prisons, courthouses, airplanes, police stations and different countries for decades. I have a doctor's note for it, too - but I've never needed to show it. Of course I never carry a cane that might garner a hairy eyeball on these excursions, because I'm not an idiot.
Now, I own and carry and have carried-on and carried into different countries (and jails and prisons and police stations and secure military bases) a Canemaster Gentleman's cane that has some fighting features built in, but they're not over the top and appear decorative, not aggressive. I've never had an issue with it in these security situations. I have some other canes that would cause a raised eyebrow, and I don't mess around with them - I'm not looking for an argument; I have other business to attend.
When I have carried-on a cane lately, it's been with a collapsible aluminum cane which easily attaches to my carry-on instead of clunking around (and possibly getting forgotten) in the overhead - still a pretty good (fast!) stick given the space in which I'd be using it.
I'd be a little surprised if anyone at the airport made a fuss about the cane you describe here in the USA, although I don't have a crystal ball - but it could happen (as others have noted). Maybe you can argue your way through - I am certain that I could, but I'm a lawyer and I have a doctor's letter as well as more than a passing acquaintance with the ADA.
Here's my question: if you're thinking it might be an issue with that particular cane, why are you messing with it?
You didn't ask for advice so I'll spare you: but if you were my brother asking this question and he needed a cane or simply wanted a stick during the plane ride, I'd advise that he consider something that wouldn't attract a second glance (like the one linked below).
Amazon.com
Just saw your follow-up post: good idea. But if you want a stick, by all means take one - just get one that looks like what a grandma would be issued by a hospital.
I have a cane that is almost the twin of yours and have never had a problem with the cane from TSA. The airlines do ask me to store it in the over head compartment if possible.
Erich
Member
Yes, as I said, I've never had a problem with it anywhere. And I have never been permitted to keep it at my seat without putting it in the overhead.
OP
TSA says they like them put away because of a tripping hazard.
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Well, if you ask Cold Steel or most other folks who actually provide the devices, they point out that the scent bottle/golf ball heads don't provide adequate support and hurt the hand. If you want a ball end, it helps if it's larger. How much larger I don't know, the cobra head above looks interesting. I use a crook end myself.
At work, I'd have politely asked to see your medical card for the stick. The way one moves if one actually needs support is different also. We had a surprising number of folks try to get dual use devices-like the Choate "ice scrapers" - past screening. Likely just butt heads, but one never knows. I wasn't screening airline passengers.
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I don't need a medical card to carry a cane, and it's really up to the user to decide if the device provides adequate support for the intended user. My plan if my cane is taken is to fall over immediately. Where was that in your policy manual?
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We always asked if the person could stand without support. If not, or we had doubts, we provided a seat/wheel chair while the cane went through xray. IIRC, we only found one sword cane and that was a complete shock to the guy who owned it. He'd been to other facilities where they apparently didn't bother. The release was very well concealed. One wonders how sensitive their metal detectors were, but he might not have needed it to walk through that.
You're right, you don't need a medical card to use a cane. But, that doesn't mean that there aren't places where they're required, or the onsite medical department makes that evaluation prior to your entry. Yes, there would be both one or more witnesses to the Q&A about ability plus video.
You're right, you don't need a medical card to use a cane. But, that doesn't mean that there aren't places where they're required, or the onsite medical department makes that evaluation prior to your entry. Yes, there would be both one or more witnesses to the Q&A about ability plus video.
I'll try to remember that the next time I fly.
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