Tom,<br><br>I think you are right in your interpretation of the express policy of scouting re fixed blade knives. More importantly, I'm delighted that the culture of scouting in your area is sufficiently enlightened, liberal, and realistic as to support the choice of fixed blade knives when appropriate.<br><br>I live in an area which is very politically correct, and therefore narrow, illiberal, & bigoted as to reality. In the approximately 4 years of my scouting, I have never seen at any outing or function a fixed blade sheath knife. That includes the several councils with which we regularly interact. Folding knives are regarded circumspectly and frequently absent even in the case of Boy Scouts of advanced rank (oblivious to the 10 Essentials rule). The ambient culture is hostile to and suspicious of knives generally. Having grown up on a ranch, and having regularly hunted (with the attendant cleaning of game) since the age of 10, I am struck by the close-mindedness & steadfast ignorance of the largely suburban/urban population in the region where I live. That attitude permeates the culture which gives rise to Scouts as well. Knives are simply not regarded as the wonderfully useful tool they really are.<br><br>My own children got knives around age 8. I have largely been the one who has taught them proper skills in handling & usage. Indeed, I suppose that is both a father's responsibility & privelege. They have had lots of opportunities to use & develop the the skills on our hunting, camping, & fishing trips, as well as at our ranch. I only wish our ambient culture were a little more supportive & nurturing of realistic skills, rather than being suspicious & hostile to them.<br><br>Incidentally, cherish the well-rounded outdoorsmen you have as scouters in your area; we don't get them in our scouting programs. <br><br>Enjoy & continue to cultivate your rich program--it's not that common.<br><br>John