Clasp knife

Many aspects of Sea Scouting involve working with ropes every Sea Scout should have a good clasp knife as part of their uniform and for use on activities. It should be attached to a lanyard and clipped onto your belt when in uniform or into your pocket when on boating activities or on camp.

Ideally the knife should be of stainless steel (as it will be in contact with salt water) and needs no more attachments other than a Marlin spike (for undoing knots) or possibly a shackle opener. A Knife with lots of attachments (most of them useless) is not the best option for sea scouting.

You should keep you knife sharp so that it will cut things easily A blunt knife is more dangerous than a sharp one because you have to hack at something to cut through and it is more likely to slip.

Sharpen your knife regularly by working it at an angle of about 30 degrees on an oilstone. You should lightly oil the moving parts of knife occasionally being careful to wipe off the excess oil.

Scouts are NOT allowed to carry sheath knives or other retractable knives. Safety tips • A blunt knife is more dangerous than a sharp one. • Never use a knife for playing games • Always cut away from your hand • Never run with an open knife.

Don’t forget to bring your knife!