Extra Knives

While at Philmont, extra knives are not needed. While at Philmont, you will be encouraged to practice Leave No Trace Ethics. There are many things we can do while on the trail that are not destructive. If you choose to whittle or carve something, you will need to pack all of the shavings out so that the next crew see’s no evidence of you. The only thing that you will need a knife for on the trail is the occasional medical issue and for opening trail meals. We recommend taking one small knife per tent partners.

If you have difficulty convincing some crew members why they should not take their knives on the trail, do this exercise with your crew: have everyone gather in a semi huddle. Take a baseball cap, hold it in the center and tell everyone to place all of their knives into it. After 12 people unload all 3 knives they planned on taking into the hat it’s going to weigh about 10 to 15 pounds. Then ask the group this question, “What will we be using our knives for on the trail?” You will have a few people say odd answers here and there. When everyone is finished, say “All we are going to use a knife for on the trail is opening meal bags and cutting rope. Does everyone need a knife on the trail?”