All boys, including Cub Scouts, eagerly await the point when they are deemed responsible enough to carry and use a pocket knife. It is our goal that any interested Scout be given the opportunity to learn how to handle this tool.

In order to instill in our Scouts this knowledge, we have established a program that we will required all Scouts to complete prior to receiving their Whittling Chip and the earned ability to carry / use a pocketknife during approved Scouting activities.

All eligible Scouts can participate in the knife safety course offered as part of the certification. However, written permission from each Scout’s parent or guardian is required before a Scout will be allowed to receive their Whittling Chip certification card and patch.

Remember, "A sharp pocketknife with a can opener on it is an invaluable backcountry tool. Keep it clean, sharp, and handy. Avoid large sheath knives. They are heavy and awkward to carry, and unnecessary for most camp chores except for cleaning fish. Since its inception, Boy Scouting has relied heavily on an outdoor program to achieve its objectives. This program meets more of the purposes of Scouting than any other single feature. We believe we have a duty to instill in our members, youth and adult, the knowledge of how to use, handle, and store legally owned knives with the highest concern for safety and responsibility.

Remember—knives are not allowed on school premises, nor can they be taken aboard commercial aircraft.

Guide to Safe Scouting
References: Boy Scout Handbook, Fieldbook, Bear Cub Scout Book, and Wolf Cub Scout Book"

Knife Usage

The Pack leadership will let Scouts know when knives are acceptable to bring to a Scouting function. Knives are never allowed at school for a Den or Pack function.

Acceptable Knives

Knives that are acceptable at Scouting functions, for adults and Scouts, are knives that have less than a 4" blade and no fixed blade knives are allowed

Whittling Chip

Any Scout with a knife must have his Whittling Chip with him at all times. Scouts without the Whittling Chip card will have their knives confiscated for the duration of the event.