While working on the Pioneering merit badge, Scouts learn how to build structures with ropes and spars. They explore the uses of various knots and splices. They learn how to care for ropes. Finally they build a structure such as a bridge, tower, chair, or table.
Pioneering Merit Badge
Pioneering - the knowledge of ropes, knots, and splices along with the ability to build rustic structures by lashing together poles and spars - is among the oldest of Scouting's skills. Practicing rope use and completing projects with lashings also allow Scouts to connect with past generations, ancestors who used many of these skills as they sailed the open seas and lived in America's forests and prairies..
Printable helps for requirements:
Printable requirements for Pioneering Merit Badge
National Outdoor Badges – Camping
The National Outdoor awards recognize Scouts BSA and Varsity Scouts who really get into outdoor activities. This award recognizes Scouts who do a lot of camping and who have the skills to be comfortable and safe at camp.
The Outdoor Knots Book (Mountaineers Outdoor Basics)
Many outdoor activities require extensive knowledge of knots: camping, climbing, rappelling, spelunking, and more.
Pro-Knot Best Rope Knot Cards
This is a nice set for anyone who is working on learning knots. It includes a set of instruction cards for various knots, a carabiner, and two cords to practice tying.
Pioneering Troop Program Feature for Scouts BSA
The Pioneering feature teaches Scouts how to build structures and gadgets using rope, spars, creativity, and knot skills.
My Favorite Knot Book
This book was recommended a few years ago when I went to Cub Scout BALOO training. I am not a “knot person”. I can watch someone do a knot and repeat it, but an hour later it is forgotten.
