I can recall some years ago now b4 the insane security BS hit a building at great heights I passed thru the metal scanners at Tulla in the full monkey suit with a leatherman on my belt, twice. The first time i was pulled up over it & asked to leave it with them to be retrieved when I return, which I did. Second time thru (cause I had to retrieve something outside the secure area) I passed right thru with just a glance & a smile by different security staff this time. Try that stunt now & i would be locked Up & thrown to the Lions!
Security gates/screening is for the honest crooks, the real threat isn't there (harassing the pax) it's out there where every Tom Dick & harry can access an A/C easily at any major airport by way of disguise as a baggage hander, refueler or a cleaner. But I guess the boffins in charge need to be showing that they are doing something to keep their jobs
CW