About 6 years ago I got to my gate and was about to board and heard my name called over the airport paging system. They wanted me back at the ticket desk to unlock the case for TSA inspection. They were viably angry that I hand to the gate, despite being given no instructions not to....After a brief but heated discussion about SWA customer service they apologized and I was able to run back through security and make my flight . Ever since then, when I've been asked for the keys, I insist on being present - when they balk I offer up to give them a form, for the Airline rep to sign, regarding their liability for missing or damaged parts. This usually brings the TSA agent up front.
This was at the ABQ airport.
Every year, since then, I wait for the "all clear" from the TSA and Airline employees before I proceed through security.
Several of the airline employees remember me by name and are really great. They have a hard job but I have a tall responsibility WRT to my firearms.
The whole point of this exercise is that nobody gets into your rifle case unless you're present.
I've taken everything you've listed above plus an extra scope in carry on without an issue.
