Req 1c — Totin' Chip

The Totin’ Chip is Scouting America’s certification that you have learned to safely handle and care for woods tools. Think of it as your “license” to use saws, axes, and knives. You cannot complete the Woodwork merit badge without it.

What Is the Totin’ Chip?

The Totin’ Chip is a recognition that proves you understand the safe use, care, and storage of woods tools including:

• Pocketknives and fixed-blade knives
• Hand saws (bow saws, crosscut saws, coping saws)
• Axes and hatchets

To earn it, you must demonstrate safe handling techniques and recite the Outdoor Code. Your Scoutmaster, assistant Scoutmaster, or another qualified leader will test you and sign off.

What You Need to Know

The Pledge

When you earn your Totin’ Chip, you agree to follow these rules:

1. I will treat my knife, ax, and saw as I would a close friend — never misuse or abuse them.
2. I will keep my knife, ax, and saw sharp, clean, and ready for use.
3. I will follow the safety rules for each tool.
4. I will follow the Outdoor Code.

Safe Knife Use

• Always cut away from your body.
• Close a folding knife when passing it to someone. Hand a fixed-blade knife handle-first.
• Establish a “blood circle” — extend your arm fully with the knife and rotate. No one should be within that circle while you are cutting.
• Never walk or run with an open knife.
• Use a cutting board or flat surface, not your lap or hand.

Safe Saw Use

• Wear safety glasses.
• Secure the wood with a clamp or have a partner hold it (with hands well clear of the cut line).
• Start the cut with a few gentle pull strokes to establish a groove.
• Let the saw do the work — do not force it.
• When nearly through a cut, slow down to prevent the wood from splintering or the saw from jerking.

Safe Ax and Hatchet Use

• Always check overhead and behind you for obstructions before swinging.
• Maintain a clear “ax yard” — at least two full arm-and-ax lengths in every direction.
• Chop at a 45-degree angle, not straight down.
• Never use an ax with a loose head.
• When carrying an ax, grip it just below the head with the blade facing away from you.

How to Earn It

Talk to your Scoutmaster about scheduling a Totin’ Chip training session. Many troops cover this during campouts or troop meetings. The process typically involves:

1. Learning the safety rules for each tool category.
2. Demonstrating proper use of a knife, saw, and ax under supervision.
3. Showing how to clean, sharpen, and store each tool.
4. Reciting the Outdoor Code.