The Top 10 Most Earned Elective Merit Badges of 2024: A Treasure Map for Scouts
Hey Scouters!
Today, we’re going to dive into a treasure map of sorts—one that leads not to gold, but to adventure, challenge, and some serious Scout skills. I’m talking about the Top 10 Most Earned Elective Merit Badges of 2024. These are the badges that Scouts across the country have been most excited to earn, and for good reason! They cover everything from survival skills to target practice to hands-on crafts and even water sports.
So if you’re a Scout (or guiding one), this list could be the inspiration you need to plan your next big goal. Let’s count them down, starting at number 10.
10. Wilderness Survival
This badge is a rite of passage for Scouts who want to prove they’ve got what it takes to survive in the wild. We’re talking about building emergency shelters, making fire with limited supplies, and spending the night under the stars. It’s challenging, but incredibly rewarding—and yes, it's every bit as cool as it sounds.
9. Fishing
Whether you're casting into a quiet lake or reeling in a fighter from a boat, this badge is all about patience and technique. You’ll even learn how to clean and cook your catch. And let’s be honest—everyone loves a good fish story to tell around the campfire!
8. Art
Scouting isn’t just about ropes and compasses. The Art merit badge proves that creativity has its place in the program too. From hand sketching to digital design, this badge lets Scouts explore self-expression and imagination, reminding us that being a well-rounded person includes the creative side.
7. Kayaking
Fast-paced, exciting, and perfect for the water-loving Scout, Kayaking teaches balance, paddling technique, and water safety. It’s a blast to earn, especially during the summer months. You’ll get wet, you’ll laugh, and you’ll paddle like a pro by the end.
6. Wood Carving
This one's a favorite among new Scouts. Learning to turn a simple block of wood into something amazing is both meditative and skill-building. Plus, it comes with a bonus: earning your Totin' Chip, which teaches the safe handling of wood tools. Just remember—always carve away from yourself!
Quick shout-out to Garfield Murden, the Scout who compiled all this amazing data. And if you’re looking for even more details, I’ll leave a link in the description below to Aaron on Scouting, which includes the full ranking for every merit badge.
Link to Aaron on Scouting: https://tinyurl.com/aarononscoutingtop-range
All right—back to the countdown!
5. Chess
Checkmate! The Chess merit badge teaches strategy, critical thinking, and patience. Whether you’re a total beginner or a future grandmaster, this badge sharpens your brain like few others. And who doesn’t love the quiet intensity of a chess match?
4. Leatherwork
This hands-on badge gives Scouts the chance to craft something unique and useful. Whether it's a wallet, belt, or keychain, Leatherwork is creative, tactile, and deeply satisfying. You’ll walk away with a piece you made yourself—and skills that last a lifetime.
3. Archery
Channel your inner Robin Hood! Archery is all about focus, precision, and steady hands. It’s a summer camp classic that never goes out of style. Once you nock that first arrow and hit the target, you'll understand why this badge ranks so high.
2. Rifle Shooting
This one’s a top-range activity every year. Rifle Shooting teaches marksmanship, discipline, and safety—three things every Scout can benefit from. It’s challenging, exciting, and a huge confidence builder. Plus, nothing beats the thrill of hitting your target dead center.
1. Fingerprinting
And here it is—the number one most earned elective merit badge of 2024: Fingerprinting. Surprised? Many are! It’s quick, fun, and gives Scouts a look into the world of forensic science. You’ll learn how fingerprints work, how to take them, and what makes each one unique. It’s like stepping into the shoes of a real-life detective.
There you have it—the top 10 elective merit badges that Scouts across the nation couldn’t wait to earn in 2024. Whether you’re into outdoor survival, quiet strategy games, or artistic expression, there’s something here for everyone.
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Until next time—let’s go Scouting, America!