Jim I know you are trying to be the myth buster, but a myth buster must be challenged or it makes for a boring show. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

As you pointed out I do not entirely disagree with you about bringing scissors instead of a knife.

I don't agree with your comments in reference to Scouting. You wrote
" Whittling is against the Boy Scout code as an unecessary dangerous way to "play" with knifes. I had a Tote and chip card - I know."

That may have been a rule for your particular unit, however, I am not finding any reference to whittling being forbidden in the most current Boy Scout Handbook. In fact In Chapter 4 in the Second Class Scout section on page 77 the book says.

"Pocket Knife
Ever need to cut a rope? Open a can of food? Whittle a tent stake , slice a biscuit or punch a hole in a belt?"

On page 78 under knife use the book says "Do keep your knife sharp and clean. A sharp blade is easier to control than a dull one.

I am not a medical professional, however, I think surgeons would be concerned with the healing of the incision. On another medical note I have had stitches from broken glass and other non-knife lacerations. The people doing the stitching have commented that clean (not jagged) lacerations were easier to stitch, and less likely to scar. This would translate to better healing I would think.