TSA Pulls Wolverine-Inspired Blade Set From Seattle Carry-On

Transportation Security Administration agents at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport removed a three-bladed claw device from a passenger's carry-on bag this week. The item, described by the agency as resembling a hybrid of comic book and horror movie props, was found during routine screening.

The discovery was made at a security checkpoint when officers reviewed X-ray images. Douglas Linn, who first flagged the bag, said the image on the screen caught his attention. "I saw three blades and distinct claw-like features," Linn stated. "I was amazed, and even more so when it came out of the bag. I had never seen anything like this during my two years at TSA."

Dennis Oishi, a fellow officer, conducted the physical search of the luggage. TSA officials noted the object looked like a mix between the claws of the Marvel character Wolverine and the glove of Freddy Krueger from the film A Nightmare on Elm Street. The agency said the find serves as a reminder that some accessories are better suited for movie screens than airplane cabins.

The passenger told officers he had forgotten the item was in his luggage. After Oishi removed the blades, the traveler voluntarily left them at the checkpoint. Ann Rhoades, the supervisory TSA officer, said the blades were among the most unusual items she had encountered in her seven years with the agency. "My first thought was, 'Oh my gosh,' and my second thought was, 'Is this what I think it is?'" she recalled.

TSA posted photos of the device on X on Tuesday. The agency included a note advising travelers to pack such items in checked bags. "Please pack all mutant blades in a checked bag," the post read.

Under current guidelines, travelers may pack sharp objects like knives, box cutters, and corkscrews in checked baggage. These items must be sheathed or securely wrapped to prevent injury to baggage handlers and inspectors. The agency did not specify whether the passenger was charged or if the item was sent to a lost and found department.