|
|
Frequently Asked Questions
According to the official SCA Rules of the List, a scout is consdered to be a unique form of non-combatant participant in a heavy-weapons contest. A better way to describe a scout, though, might be this: A scout is the eyes and ears of an army. Lightly armoured (in most battles scouts are only required to wear a helm and no other protection beyond their regular garb), scouts have the ability to move faster and quieter than most of the heavily armoured fighters about them and therefore make themselves invaluable to their commanders by keeping them abreast of what happens on the field. Take the time to read through the Handbook (particularly Section 5 and Appendix C) to really understand the role.
First of all, it's fun.
More than that, though, it's a great way to introduce newcomers to the SCA. All it takes to start is an approved helm — something that can often be borrowed easily enough — and a willingness to get out there and try. You get the chance to actually be out on the battlefield among the fighters, making friends and making a difference to the course of battle — all without ever having to swing a blow.
On the Midrealm Scout Pages, Master Sergeant Erik Erikson has a great FAQ on the subject.
What sort of equipment do you need to be a scout?
All you need to start is a good helm and a sturdy pair of shoes. The helm can easily be borrowed. (The shoes we suggest you supply yourself!) Take a look at Section 3 of the Handbook for more detailed information.
How expensive is it to be a scout?
The start-up costs can be very low, indeed. (They can be nothing, in fact, if you're enterprising enough.) Adequate helms can be made from materials costing as little as $25 - $40 Canadian. Just speak to your local scout marshal or other scouts you know and they'll point you in the right direction.
How do you authorize as a scout?
Basically, you need to have read the Handbook and have understood the basic rules. Then, you need to find a marshal that can authorize you. Take a look at Section 4 and Appendix B for more detailed information.
Who do I contact about becoming a scout?
The best place to start, typically, is right within your own canton or shire. Find out if someone in your group is a scout or knows who the local scout marshal may be. If there's no one in your home group, go to the next level up and find out who the marshal is for your barony. Failing that, email us right here and we'll put you in touch with the Kingdom Scout Marshal, who'll be more than happy to help you out.
What if there aren't any scouts (or scout marshals) in my area?
Then, you potentially get to have the grand distinction of being the first and the only (at least until you convince your friends to play, too) scout in your area!
Seriously, though, if there's no one in your immediate area, start looking a little farther afield until you find someone that fits the bill. The Contact page has links to how you can get in touch with each of the baronial and or regional scout marshals in your area, as well as the Kingdom Scout Marshal. So, you might want to start there. (Another option is to inquire to the Kingdom of Ealdormere Scout Guild email list.)
Didn't see what you were looking for? Email us.
The Kingdom of Ealdormere
Scout Guild
About Us | The Handbook | FAQ | Contacts | Links | Downloads
Disclaimer | Sitemap | Ealdormere Scout Guild
Kingdom of Ealdormere Home Page
This site webbed by Alaani Whitefire, AS XXXVI (CE 2002).