Handbooks
Each Cub Scout is expected to own a copy of the handbook appropriate for their rank and to bring the handbook to each den meeting. The handbook provides the requirements to earn each rank (Bobcat, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light) and a place to record progress. Each Cub should write their name in permanent ink on the title page (inside the book) in the space provided for this purpose.
For Tiger through Arrow of Light ranks, if the activity is completed outside of the den meeting, the parent, adult partner, or another caring adult should notify the den leader indicating the youth has done their best to complete the requirement. The den leader then approves that requirement after consultation with the family or the youth to confirm completion. Den leaders may ask an assistant or parent who helps at meetings to assist with the approvals. For Webelos and Arrow of Light ranks, the den leader signs for approval of all requirements, unless the den leader delegates this responsibility. (Guide to Advancement 2019, section 4.1.0.3)
We recommend purchasing the Cub Scouts Handbook Cover #633350 to help maintain the handbook condition; your Cub Scout should be able to use this cover for several years.
NOTE: There are no Bobcat or Arrow of Light handbooks. The Bobcat rank is in the front of every handbook; the Arrow of Light rank is part of the Webelos program and the requirements are in the Webelos handbook.
Handbook Updates – December 2016
In December 2016, the requirements were updated for all ranks and adventures. New handbooks that include the updates requirements are now available in stores; the new handbooks have a solid color cover, not the wood grain cover. You can download the addendum with updated rank and adventure requirements to use with the wood grain cover handbooks below:
Tiger | Wolf | Bear | Webelos/Arrow of Light
Purchasing Handbooks
Locally, handbooks may be purchased at Rancho Army Navy Store in Temecula.
The California Inland Empire Council operates Scout Shops in Redlands and Montclair. Click here for information about these Scout Shops. Locations of all BSA Scout Shops and authorized retailers (including Orange and San Diego Counties) are available at https://www.scoutshop.org/storelocator
Online purchases can be made at ScoutShop.org, the official BSA online retail site.
Last updated: February 4, 2019