It has been my observation that while painfully slow and obtrusive, airport security is a joke as far as effectiveness. The illusion of effectiveness is supposed to deter ne'er-do-wells.

When flying, which I have yet to do kilted, I make no provision for the Thousands Standing Around screeners. Other than actually prohibited items, I travel at my own convenience and make them accomodate me. Having a copy of their own rules with which to correct their mistakes is handy.