Baggage regulations

Right along with other personal necessities such as canes or crutches, outer garments, child safety devices, food, and water that don't count towards one's carry-on baggage quota, is "One musical instrument, not exceeding a size of 45 linear inches." Logically, this is probably United's avoidance of the hassle of checking and possibly damaging an expensive subcategory of possessions. My first reaction, however, was that United clearly has their priorities straight. And that I should have taken up the french horn.