Re: International travel - taking a flashlight
Over the years I have been in many countries, some considered not safe, and none gave me no real problems, however, it was hard on the nerves. Customs officers with decorated uniforms, and those high brimmed Nazi looking hats can be scary.
On more than one occasion I was escorted by officers both with Uzi sub machine guns to a room where a well dressed and. Impeccably groomed, very well mannered and cultured, gentleman came in, speaking the Queen's English would politely ask some questions, and apologized for the in convince, shook my hand welcomed me to the country, then walked me out.
That same sequence, for me, has been somewhat universal.
Bottom line, there is no way to predict future trips. Any thing can happen, I feel lucky so far. Travel is a total nightmare sometimes.
As far as the TSA (Whom I am not a fan of), I have not had a problem with them so far. I fly quite often from PSP airport, and the TSA agents know me well. They often say to me, we don't need to look in your briefcase (Aluminum Haliburton), but we would love to look in it to see your cool equipment, and of course I open it for them and demo lights and things.
Really when you leave the US, be prepared and ready for anything. In the US, Canada, Europe, the UK, Japan, and Hong Kong and a few other locations you should be fine. Mexico is very questionable, and dangerous these days. My hot wife is from Mexico, and she will not go there, at least for the present.
What I do when going to a questionable country, is take what you can replace. Like a say a Surefire, and knife wise a Spyderco, or other easily replaceable production knives and flashlights.
Be careful and alert, moreover, do not talk back to any foreign authorities, ever, just do not do it. Here in the USA, we can mouth off a bit to people in charge and nothing should happen, within reason. This is very important to remember: OUT OF THE UNITED STATES,
YOU DO NOT HAVE YOUR CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS!!! You fall under the laws and whatever rights that country has, and some play fast and loose with basic rights, laws and enforcement, prosecutors, lawyers and judges. Not to mention human rights.
There's an old Chinese saying--"Always avoid the authorities at all costs." This dates back centuries, however, it excellent advice to day as post 911, had changed law enforcement and the court judicial system in America. Avoid our authorities as much as possible.
Ok, I will stop. After traveling since 1963, I felt I should pass on my experience.
Have a safe trip, and return safe. One other thing...I have always carried a US gold bullion coin in my wallet when out of the country, as this may get you out of a jail cell or beating.
With all best wishes on your endeavors,
RL