Schleprock wrote: ...
I understood correct procedure was to lock the hard case with a NON-TSA approved lock and place it in an outer baggage to be checked with a TSA lock. .
It is not an error that you can use TSA locks for the gun case; it might be an error that you have to use TSA locks.
The language about using a lock that only the traveler has a key or combo to disappeared from the airline and TSA websites several years ago. There is still language in the CFR to that effect, but there is also new language at the beginning of that section of code that basically says nothing in the section prevents the TSA from conducting its inspection programs, and that may very well be the bus that TSA locks for gun cases rode in on. There may be something written somewhere else as well, the CFR is a behemoth.
I never did think the locks on gun cases or luggage bought much security, they basically just keep the bag or case from falling open during rough handling. Your security is keeping your gun stuff low profile among the enormous volume of baggage going through the airport. And luck.