I was traveling when the thread about scissors was posted. I have had cuticle scissors confiscated and they are no where near 4" long. What I have found to be successful is baby scissors or child scissors with short blades and blunt tips. Pull them out and put them in the bin so they can be inspected quickly. Nail clippers with a nail file attached will be either confiscated or the file broken off. If you have larger scissors in your checked luggage, it will probably be inspected. I have had more trouble outside the US than in...particularly returning to the States.

Also good is dental floss with the cutter in the dispenser.

Great to know that - I just got the itty bitty scissors for that purpose.

I have a ring that has a tiny razor on it for cutting thread. I think it's called a thread cutter thimble. I wonder if that would be allowed on a plane...???

I have heard the rings are specifically not allowed - something really silly about a concealed blade?

I have made dozens of international flights around the world with nail clippers. Never, ever had a problem, even when pulled out of the line to be searched.