Bear Claws

Bear Adventure: Bear ClawsA pocketknife is a very useful tool. As a Scout you have many opportunities to use this tool during Scouting activities. However, while it is a useful tool, it is also a very dangerous tool and as such demands respect from you. It is important that you know when to use your pocketknife and when to leave it in your pocket. You must also know how to take care of your pocketknife so it will always be in the best condition to safely help you.

Rationale for Adventure

Most young men are very excited about the opportunity to own and carry a pocketknife. In many families this may be a rite of passage. It is important that the Scout understands a pocketknife is a tool and not a toy, and how to responsibly handle and use the pocketknife when he is around others.

Requirements

Complete the following requirements.

  1. Learn about three common designs of pocketknives.
  2. Learn knife safety and earn your Whittling Chip.*
  3. Do one of the following:
    1. Using a pocketknife, carve two items.
    2. With a pocketknife, safely perform each of these tasks:
      1. Demonstrate how to cut a piece of rope, twine, or fishing line.
      2. Open a sealed box without damaging the contents
      3. Open a can with a can opener tool on a pocket knife.
      4. Remove and replace the screws on an object with the screwdriver tool on a pocket knife
      5. Open a letter.

*One of the items carved for Bear Claws requirement 3 may be used to fulfill Whittling Chip requirement 3.

Takeaways for Cub Scouts

  • Understanding that carrying and using a pocketknife at approved Scouting activities is an honor to be given to those Scouts who demonstrate they are mature enough to live up to the responsibility that goes along with this tool.
  • Learning the different types of pocketknives and the appropriate times to use them.
  • Learning and following safety rules.
  • A Scout is trustworthy, obedient.

Historical Requirements

2015 Handbook Requirements

Bear Handbook, page 30.
Bear Den Leader Guide, page 33

  1. Learn about three common designs of pocketknives.
  2. Learn knife safety and earn your Whittling Chip.
  3. Using a pocketknife, carve two items.

*One of the items carved for Bear Claws requirement 3 may be used to fulfill Whittling Chip Requirement 3.