Totin’ Chip Certification

A Scout who completes the requirements for the Totin’ Chip certification shows that he or she has the knowledge and skills to safely handle wood tools, such as an ax, hatchet, pocketknife, or hand saw. A Totin’ Chip certification may be recognized by a wallet card or a temporary patch.

This certification grants a Scout the right to carry and use woods tools.

The Scout must show their Scout leader, or someone designated by their leader, that the Scout understands their responsibility to do the following:

1. Read and understand woods tools use and safety rules from the Scouts BSA handbooks.
2. Demonstrate proper handling, care, and use of the pocket knife, ax, and saw.
3. Use knife, ax, and saw as tools, not playthings.
4. Respect all safety rules to protect others.
5. Respect property. Cut living and dead trees only with permission and good reason.
6. Subscribe to the Outdoor Code.

The Scout’s “Totin’ Rights” can be taken away if they fail in their responsibility.

Certification Card

A card and a patch are available from your local Scout shop. The card certifies that the Scout has completed the certification.

Patch Placement

The Totin’ Chip Patch is considered a temporary patch and, if worn, should be worn centered on the right pocket of the uniform shirt. It should not be sewn on a pocket flap.

Is Cutting Corners off the Totin’ Chip Allowed?

The BSA doesn’t tell troops they must cut corners off for Totin’ Chip violations, but it doesn’t prohibit the practice either. Read more.

Whittling Chip Certification

When a Cub Scout earns his or her Whittling Chip, that means he or she is ready to handle a knife safely. Most units give the Cub Scout a Whittling Chip card upon completing these requirements.

Firem’n Chit Certification

This BSA certification provides a set of rules which can be used for training with Scouts. A pocket card is also available at your local Scout shop, to indicate that the Scout has completed the training and agrees to the rules.