No need to be coy about searching a rack of chips in Las Vegas, Tom. I have done it many times and usually just take the rack to a closed window where the light is good to look for "keepers". They don't care about your hobby, and most cashiers are quite willing to help. It never hurts to ask if they have any "new" or unused chips in the vault. Sometimes you can score this way and save the time to search the rack. A small tip is appropriate if they have to visit the vault for you. Good Luck!