Flying to DC

[mkm]

Thanks guys, I knew yall would be helpful.

M58, I get what you're saying about carry ons/annoying people.  I'll keep it in mind, but I'm packing pretty light and small for this trip and would prefer to keep my stuff with me this time.  Besides, I didn't pay for my ticket; yall did. 

Even if I could get a knife up there, I'm still not sure what kind of security I'm going to have to deal with once there.  I also have a feeling most of the folks in the group will not be pro-armed.  I'm afraid I'm going to have to be lead around like the rest of the sheep for 2 days.  My goal is to at least be the "black sheep" of the group.

Flying operationally engrained two things.  ALWAYS have a light ON YOU, and know where the exits, structure, and be able to get there.
I usually put a light in my carry on while going through security then put it in my pocket while airborne.  As much as I'd like to also have a multi-tool too, that isn't happening now. 

As far as in DC, it depends on where your headed.  Are you staying in DC proper or headed soemwhere else?  Which airport are you going into?  The area around Dulles isn'd bad, I'm up there all the time for work.  National has a few decent places close in but pretty much sucks after about 6PM.  Traffic BLOWS.  The Beltway can be a bit confusing but look on the bright side, if you miss your exit it will come back around eventually.

That's a good idea; I'll stick it in my pocket after I get through security.

I'll probably fly into Reagan, maybe Dulles.  If mapquest is right, I'll be staying about 1000 meters, straight line, from the White house.  I won't be doing any driving.

[tombogan03884]

Look for a cheap folding knife or small kitchen knife for while you are there, Some dollar store special that you can through in the trash before you leave.

[PegLeg45]

Look for a cheap folding knife or small kitchen knife for while you are there, Some dollar store special that you can through in the trash before you leave.

+1...excellent advice here.

Let's face it, those cheap 7-11 'grab-bag' knife specials (aka 'one-cut wonders') in the little plastic bucket by the register for $5 are perfect for this situation.
Buy two as soon as you leave the airport, one for each pocket.
You shouldn't need it to slice a 1" hemp rope, shave with, or tunnel through a wall.......you just need something on you, just in case you have to alleviate someone's gripping ability or in a worst case scenario, emancipate his guts.

Like Tom said, when it's time to go home, then toss it (after wiping prints, of course) before going into the airport.
(now that sounded paranoid, didn't it?)
 

[ratcatcher55]

Remember if you go sight seeing in DC all the museums have metal detectors and bag x-rays.

[DGF]

One thing not mentioned that I always have with me, is my cane. I have two, one from WoodenSteel and another that I made myself out of a stockmans cane. It is hickory and very solid. I have never been questioned at the airport or the Train Station. I carry it everywhere. It may be a better weapon than a knife.

[Sponsor]

[tombogan03884]

One thing not mentioned that I always have with me, is my cane. I have two, one from WoodenSteel and another that I made myself out of a stockmans cane. It is hickory and very solid. I have never been questioned at the airport or the Train Station. I carry it everywhere. It may be a better weapon than a knife.

+10

[mkm]

The cheap knife is a good idea.  I'll have to see what I can find once I get on the ground.

One thing not mentioned that I always have with me, is my cane. I have two, one from WoodenSteel and another that I made myself out of a stockmans cane. It is hickory and very solid. I have never been questioned at the airport or the Train Station. I carry it everywhere. It may be a better weapon than a knife.

I agree that it would be very effective and probably better than a knife, but I don't know if I could pull it off without being questioned.  I'm a bit on the young side for the typical cane user and haven't developed a good enough "pimp walk" to smoothly work it into my daily ensemble.  I can picture myself running through the airport with my luggage in one hand and a cane in the other.  Plus, it would be something else to get in m58's way on the plane.  Definitely a good idea for those that can carry one unquestioned though.

I'd also have to order one between now and then.  (not that that's a legitimate excuse when it comes to self-defense)

[MikeBjerum]

The cheap knife is a good idea.  I'll have to see what I can find once I get on the ground.

I agree that it would be very effective and probably better than a knife, but I don't know if I could pull it off without being questioned.  I'm a bit on the young side for the typical cane user and haven't developed a good enough "pimp walk" to smoothly work it into my daily ensemble.  I can picture myself running through the airport with my luggage in one hand and a cane in the other.  Plus, it would be something else to get in m58's way on the plane. Definitely a good idea for those that can carry one unquestioned though.

I'd also have to order one between now and then.  (not that that's a legitimate excuse when it comes to self-defense)

I have no problem with canes, crutches or other necessaries.  It is the week's laundry and library that drives me nuts.

I had actually thought of suggesting you develop a limp between now and then, but my rant distracted me.

[tombogan03884]

Trick knee, it only bothers me when it goes out.  

[DGF]

You really don't have to have a limp, I don't. They are restrained from asking about it because of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Just be sure you are not carrying a War Hammer with points sticking out all over. A cane with a crook is just fine and if you watch Janich's cd on Cane self defense you will be just fine. A young guy like you can learn some other awesome self defense moves with a cane that us "slightly" older guys can no longer master.