Uniforms and Handbooks
What do I need?
The Pack 296 Cub Scout uniform has the following essential parts: Shirt, pants or shorts, belt, neckerchief, and neckerchief slide. Scout hats also recommended.
Tiger, Wolf, Bear and Webelos Cub Scouts (Grades 1-4) use the blue uniform shirt and bottoms, plus a neckerchief and optional hat for that rank. The pack has a collection of neckerchiefs and typically provides those to Scouts.
Arrow of Light (AOL) Cub Scouts (Grade 5) have the option to use the tan uniform shirt with green bottoms, or can continue to use the blue uniform shirt until it no longer fits. There is no neckerchief for AOL Scouts.
Lion Cub Scouts (Kindergarten) use a Lion or Pack 296 t-shirt. You do not need to purchase bottoms or a neckerchief for Lions in Pack 296.
Additional details of all the uniform requirements can be found here: Cub Scout Uniform Requirements
In addition to the base uniform, you will need the following patches sewed onto the left shoulder (see last image at left)
Golden Gate Area Council Shoulder Patch
"296" Red numerals (sold separately or ordered together)
Blue shoulder loops (epaulets) and Webelos Colors for Webelos and AOL Cub Scouts
You do not need to purchase rank patches - these will be awarded to you.
Finally, all Scouts should purchase the Cub Scout Handbook for their particular rank.
Where to get your uniform and handbook
Uniforms, patches and handbooks for Pack 296 can be purchased at the Pleasant Hill Scout Shop, located at: 508 Contra Costa Blvd, Suite K2, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523. The basic uniform (everything but patches) can also be purchased at McCaulou's Department Store in Montclair Village.
There is another Scout Shop at 10 Highland Way, Piedmont, CA 94611 ((510) 844-4751) which has handbooks and some uniforms.
Pack 296 also reuses uniforms and handbooks from past Scouts who have donated their old materials. This happens at the first pack meeting of the year.
How and when to wear the uniform
In general, every Cub Scout should wear their uniform to all Cub Scouting activities, including den and pack meetings, unit outings, and any activities done with members of the den or pack.
When playing sports, going to camp, or participating in other physical activities, the Cubmaster or den leader will let you know in advance if Cub Scouts can wear an alternate uniform, such as a Pack 296 or other Scout activity shirt, with or without a neckerchief. These are sometimes referred to as Class B Uniforms.
Here are some tips for wearing the uniform:
DO keep the uniform clean and in good repair. The official uniform is a sturdy, machine-washable garment that will last for years with proper care.
DO NOT wear non-BSA badges, awards, or insignia on the Cub Scout uniform or make any alterations to the uniform or insignia.
AVOID mixing uniform parts with non-uniform clothing, such as wearing a uniform cap with other clothing or wearing the uniform shirt with blue jeans. The uniform should be treated as a unit—worn in its entirety, or not at all. A notable exception is the neckerchief, which can be worn during Scouting activities along with appropriate nonuniform clothing (e.g., wearing the neckerchief while on a den hike or pack campout).
Why wear a uniform?
The Scout uniform helps support the values embodied in the Scout Oath and Scout Law. The Scout uniform helps accomplish 4 ideals: Identification, Achievement, Personal Commitment, and Personal Equality.
Identification
Youth and adult members who wear the uniform can be instantly identified as members of the BSA.
The uniform is a visible reminder that Scouting is a positive force for good in the community and for the character development of all its members.
When the uniform is properly worn and cared for by both youth and adult leaders, the uniform builds good den and pack spirit.
Achievement
The uniform shows the wearer’s activity, responsibility, and achievement. The accomplishments of every youth and adult member can be recognized by the insignia worn on the uniform. The only thing you can tell about someone in uniform is where they are from and what they have accomplished as an individual.
Personal Commitment
The uniform is a constant reminder to all members of their commitment to the ideals and purpose of Scouting. It is a way of making visible members’ commitment to the Scout Oath and Scout Law.
Personal Equality
The uniform represents a democratic idea of equality, bringing people of different backgrounds together. When universally adopted it covers up all differences of social or economic background.