fixed blades in boy scouts?????

fracmeister said:
Sure, Scouts has some problems... but I am proud to be associated with the BSA and the young men I get to take camping. So stop grumbling about the rules and do the best with what you've got. Might even be a lesson to be learned there.
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To your first point, I totally support your statement. Me too - for fifty years.

To you second point, fellow Scouter, nuts. "A Scout is Obedient. A Scout follows the rules. . . . If he thinks these rules and laws are unfair, he tries to have them changed in an orderly manner rather than disobeying them." Pretty good words, there, Scouter, would you not agree?

Our Council used to bar 'chemical stoves." That rule went. Others may follow in time.
 
Thomas Linton said:
To your first point, I totally support your statement. Me too - for fifty years.

To you second point, fellow Scouter, nuts. "A Scout is Obedient. A Scout follows the rules. . . . If he thinks these rules and laws are unfair, he tries to have them changed in an orderly manner rather than disobeying them." Pretty good words, there, Scouter, would you not agree?

Our Council used to bar 'chemical stoves." That rule went. Others may follow in time.
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Thomas,

Are your guys going to Philmont this summer?

Razz
 
Hey Razz,

I'm no longer associated with the BSA (mostly for religious reasons), but I worked at Philmont for ten years, most in the backcountry, and several as a Backcountry Camp Director. Philmont is definitely a worthwhile experience for young people.

My last year was '97, but I doubt much has changed. I'd be happy to try and answer any questions or just chat about Phimont. Send me a P.M. if you want.

-Bob

I don't think I can PM at this forum. I tried and it says something about "cannot access this page". My email is ebehrend(at)raton(dot)com.
 
Razz,

One crew is backpacking the Pacific Crest Trail in northern California. Another crew is backpacking on Isle Royale.

We have not sent a crew to Philmont since 1990, which is a shame. However, that crew and the 1989 crew lost AT LEAST one pound a day per member -- not good. And this despite nine quarts of "swap box" vegetables a day added to the wholely inadequate rations and despite four pounds of potato buds.

I would strongly suggest that anyone going to Philmont counsel with those with prior experience.
 
I've done my years as both Scout and leader, and I have no problem with a Scout carrying a fixed blade. Threaten with it/throw it/do something that will endanger someone else, and it goes swimming, just like a folder does. I've seen many knives go swimming when my dad was ASM, and I've sent a few myself. The Scout and the parents sign an agreement to that effect on joining, and I've never had a problem. :)
 
Older boys are canoeing for 6 days. My group is split between Chilsom Trail High Adventure and Sid Richardson. Philmont in 2006!
 
I think this is an unfortunate rule. Anyone who has done any camping understands the use of knives, hatchets, axes, etc. and should be trained in their use. If you want something really dangerous, and I have seen them at many scout camps, look at a chainsaw!!! I have seen more kids hurt by cooking marshmellows over a campfire and blowing them out than I ever did with tools in all my years of scouting. I think we need to teach our young men not to be so "fearful" of things but maybe in our litiginous society where every sues about everything under the sun that's the way it will be. What ever happened to individual responsibility.
 
From the BSA Guide to Safe Scouting:

"Chainsaws and mechanical log splitters may be authorized for use only by trained individuals over the age of 18, using proper protective gear in accordance with local laws."

Youth Scouts are NOT allowed to use chainsaws.
 
kenk said:
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Youth Scouts are NOT allowed to use chainsaws.
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I think the exception is when it is part of the Halloween costume and/or when wearing a hockey mask.
 
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