Essential Knife Safety for Scouts

Using knives is an important part of Scouting and bushcraft, but every Scout and leader must understand the law and use knives safely and responsibly.

Can Scouts Carry Knives?

Yes, but only when there is a genuine reason.

In the UK, it is generally illegal to carry a knife in a public place without a good reason. Travelling directly to or from a Scout meeting, camp, expedition, or bushcraft activity where the knife will be used can be considered a good reason.

A Scout should:

• Only carry a knife when instructed by their Scout Leader.
• Travel directly to and from the activity.
• Keep the knife safely stored during transport.
• Never carry a knife for self-defence or "just in case."

The Law in Simple Terms

Folding Pocket Knives

You may generally carry a folding pocket knife in public without needing a specific reason if it:

• Has a cutting edge of 3 inches (7.62 cm) or less
• Does not lock open
• But not in Zones, These include Scools, Night Clubs, Foodball Matches, Events, and any where the police have applyed for an Exclusion Zone

However, even these must never be carried for threatening or inappropriate purposes.

Lock Knives and Fixed Blade Knives

A lock knife or fixed blade knife always requires a good reason to be carried in public, regardless of blade length.

Examples of good reasons include:

• Scout camps
• Bushcraft training
• Camping trips
• Duke of Edinburgh expeditions
• Outdoor education activities
• Work requiring a knife

Travelling directly to and from these activities is important.

Buying Knives

In England, Wales and Northern Ireland:

• Retailers cannot sell most knives to anyone under 18.
• This includes bushcraft knives, lock knives and Swiss Army knives (except where specific legal exemptions apply).

Many Scout groups therefore ask parents to purchase a knife for their young person if one is required, but most issue a group knife when needed.

Safe Transport

When travelling to Scouts:

• Store the knife in its sheath.
• Place it inside a backpack or kit bag.
• Keep it out of immediate reach, a two step is good such as a proper box in the boot of a car.
• Go directly to and from the activity.
• Remove the knife from your bag or car when you arrive home in case you forget its there.

Avoid carrying knives in pockets or attached to belts while travelling.

At Scout Activities

Knives should only be used:

• Under adult supervision where appropriate.
• In a designated knife or carving area.
• Following the Scout Association's safety guidance.
• For legitimate outdoor skills such as:
  • Whittling
  • Feather sticks
  • Food preparation
  • Camp gadget construction
  • Shelter building

Everyone should maintain a safe working area (often called the "blood bubble" or safety circle) and use the correct cutting techniques.

Knives That Are Illegal

Some knives are banned in the UK and must never be used for Scouting, including:

• Flick knives (switchblades)
• Butterfly knives
• Gravity knives
• Zombie knives
• Disguised knives
• Other prohibited offensive weapons

These are illegal to possess except under limited exemptions.

Scout Best Practice

Many Scout groups recommend that Scouts:

• Only bring a knife when specifically asked.
• Carry it securely inside their rucksack.
• Never carry it around town before or after Scouts.
• Treat every knife as a tool—not a toy or weapon.

Key Points to Remember

• ✔ A knife is a tool, not a toy.
• ✔ Only carry a knife when you have a genuine reason.
• ✔ Fixed blade and locking knives require a good reason.
• ✔ Travel directly to and from Scout activities.
• ✔ Keep knives safely stored during transport.
• ✔ Follow your Scout Leader's instructions at all times.
• ✔ Never carry a knife for self-defence.

Disclaimer: This page provides general guidance on UK knife law for Scouting and bushcraft. It is not legal advice. Laws can change, and different rules may apply in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Always check the latest UK Government guidance and follow the policies of The Scout Association