Team Fortress 2's Scout is a force to be reckoned with – known for his quick wit, rapid-fire attacks, and undeniable swagger. This guide will help you channel his iconic style and brash confidence. We'll cover crafting his signature outfit, nailing his cocky mannerisms, and even exploring cool group costume ideas. Over the years, I've prepared hundreds of costume guides, including many for beloved TF2 characters. If you want to be the most memorable Scout on the battlefield, let's get started!
- Difficulty: 4/10 The Scout's core outfit is quite simple. However, achieving those iconic mannerisms and mastering his catchphrases might take some comedic practice.
- Can you build it from your own wardrobe: Most people likely own a red T-shirt, grey pants, and a black cap. The accessories (headset, wristband, etc.) are where it might get trickier, depending on what you already have on hand.
- Scare factor: 0/10 - The Scout is a brash and comical character, not remotely scary.
- Cost: $$$$$ Here's a rough breakdown:
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- Basic (from your wardrobe or thrifted): ~$10-$20 (if you need to purchase a headset or find a cheap baseball bat)
- Mid-range (mix of new and pre-owned items): ~$30-$50 (if you need to purchase new elements like a specific style of bat or want to paint the logo on your cap)
- High-End (replica pieces): ~$100+ (if you want an exact replica headset, a custom-made bat with accurate details, etc.)
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Scout Costume Essentials
You will need the following items for your Scout from TF2 Halloween costume:
- Slim-fit Crewneck Red T-Shirt
- Dickies Men's Original 874 Work Pant
- Cotton Twill Cap
- Black Canvas Web Belt
- Unisex Crossbody Backpack
- Gaming Headset
- Slugger Youth Baseball Bat
- Alpha-Double Barrel Toy Shotgun
- Professional Grade Black Electrical Tape
- Customized Military ID Dog Tag
- Athletic White Tape
- Men's White Cotton Crew Socks
- adidas Performance Men's Samba Classic Indoor Soccer Shoe
How To DIY Your Scout Costume
The Scout's outfit screams speed and style. From his signature red tee to those sporty sneakers, every element reinforces his energetic personality. We've covered ready-made options, but if you're ready to unleash your crafty side, these DIY tips will help you create a one-of-a-kind TF2 Scout costume!
The Essential Red T-shirt
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What You Need:
- Plain red T-shirt (crew neck)
- Fabric scissors
- Fabric pen or marker (optional)
- TF2 Scout reference images
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How to Do It:
- The Basics: Start with a simple red T-shirt. If you can't find the perfect shade, consider dyeing a white tee.
- Shorten the Sleeves: For true Scout style, those sleeves need to go! Carefully cut them off just on the shoulder. Leave the edges raw for that casual, worn-in look.
- Optional: Add Wear and Tear: If you want a more battle-worn aesthetic, use your fabric pen to add a few subtle holes or "bullet graze" marks.
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Bonus Tips:
- I've found that using a lighter shade of red fabric pen for wear and tear looks more realistic than black.
- Browse thrift stores – you might find the perfect pre-worn red tee, saving you some work!
Classic Grey Pants
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What You Need:
- Grey sweatpants or track pants
- Fabric scissors
- Black fabric dye (optional)
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How to Do It:
- The Right Fit: Find a pair of loose-fitting, comfy grey pants – sweatpants are perfect for this.
- Optional: Get the Shade Right: If your pants aren't the ideal shade of Scout-grey, a quick dye bath will do the trick.
- Accessorize: We'll get to his iconic black belt later; for now, focus on the pants themselves.
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Bonus Tips:
- Scout's pants are plain – resist the urge to add pockets or stripes if you want that authentic look.
- Consider slightly distressing the fabric with sandpaper for subtle hints of wear and tear.
The Scout's Signature Cap
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What You Need:
- Black baseball cap
- White fabric paint or acrylic paint
- Paintbrush
- TF2 Scout reference image
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How To Do It:
- The Base: Your black baseball cap is the foundation. Make sure it's a simple design without logos or other embellishments.
- Get Your Sketch On: Lightly sketch the Boston "B" logo (find great reference images online) on the cap with a pencil.
- Paint with Precision: Carefully paint the "B" with your white paint, building up layers as needed for a solid, bold design.
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Bonus Tips:
- To get that slightly grungy look, don't worry about perfect lines; a little rough edge suits the Scout's style.
- If you're not confident hand-painting, explore fabric stencils or iron-on transfers for a polished look.
The Versatile Headset
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What You Need:
- Over-ear headphones (black or grey)
- Cardboard
- Black electrical tape
- Hot glue or super glue
- Black or grey acrylic paint
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How To Do It:
- Build the Mic Boom: Cut a small, rectangular piece of cardboard and roll it into a thin tube. Secure the shape with tape.
- Attach It: Using glue, attach the tube to one side of your headphones at about mouth level.
- Tape and Paint: Wrap black electrical tape around the mic and the area where it connects to the headphones for a seamless look. Paint any exposed cardboard to match the headphone color.
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Bonus Tips:
- I think a slightly oversized mic looks more in tune with the Scout's cartoony proportions.
- If you have old, broken headphones, repurpose them! You're only concerned with the overall shape.
With these DIY basics, you've nailed the core elements of the Scout's look. Next up, we'll tackle those essential accessories and how to channel his trademark attitude!
Scout Cosplay
A true Scout isn't just about the look; it's about embodying that cocky confidence and lightning-fast energy. Let's dive into the mannerisms that'll make your TF2 Scout costume truly shine!
How to act like Scout at the Halloween Party:
Scout's Signature Swagger
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What To Do: The Scout moves with unbridled arrogance. There's a spring in his step and a playful air of superiority.
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How To Do It:
- Chin Up! Walk with your head held high, a slight smirk on your face.
- The Shoulder Strut: Let your shoulders swing slightly with each step, exuding that "too cool for school" energy.
- Fast and Loose: Don't be afraid to loosen up your movements – imagine you're always ready to spring into action.
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Bonus Tips:
- I suggest watching a few TF2 Scout gameplay videos to really analyze his walk and posture.
- Practice in front of a mirror! It might feel a bit silly at first, but the more you embody the swagger, the more natural it'll feel.
Catchphrases With Attitude
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What To Do: The Scout is a master of the taunt and the witty one-liner. His brags and insults are pure TF2 gold.
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How To Do It:
- Memorize the Classics: Start by nailing classic Scout lines like "I'm runnin' circles around ya!" or "You're like a car crash in slow motion – it's awful, but I can't look away."
- Channel the Energy: These aren't just words; deliver them with a mix of mockery and self-assurance.
- Timing Is Key: Drop a well-timed Scout taunt in the middle of a photo pose for maximum effect.
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Bonus Tips:
- Explore the TF2 wiki for a full list of Scout voice lines – there are some hidden gems in there!
- Don't overuse the catchphrases. A well-placed taunt has way more impact.
Gestures with Gusto
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What To Do: The Scout communicates as much with his body as with his words. He's all about bold gestures and exaggerated reactions.
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How To Do It:
- Bat Flips: Master the bat flip! Whenever you pose with your baseball bat, incorporate a quick flick of the wrist like he does in-game.
- Taunting Hands: Don't be afraid to use your hands – mocking gestures, chest bumps, and even the occasional hair flip all fit the Scout's playful vibe.
- Exaggerated Reactions: Winning? A flamboyant victory dance. Get hit? Clench your fist in frustration, just for a second before you're back in the fray.
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Bonus Tips:
- Remember, the Scout is a bit of a show-off. The bigger and bolder the gesture, the better!
- If you're feeling shy, start with smaller gestures and work your way up to full-blown Scout-style theatrics.
The Competitive Spirit
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What To Do: The Scout thrives on competition. Whether engaged in battle or just messing around, he's always out to prove he's the best.
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How To Do It:
- Embrace Friendly Rivalry: If you're with other TF2 cosplayers, engage in some good-natured banter and playful challenges.
- Always Be "On": Even when posing for pictures, maintain a slightly competitive edge – imagine you're sizing up your next opponent.
- Trash Talk (The Fun Kind): Lighthearted, Scout-style trash talk can be hilarious – keep it focused on skills and abilities, not personal insults.
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Bonus Tips:
- Knowing the character's motivations is key. The Scout's need to win comes from a place of insecurity, so there's often a hint of desperation beneath his bragging.
- Be a good sport! Remember, ultimately it's about having fun and celebrating the TF2 world.
Combine this swagger, the iconic catchphrases, those big gestures, and his competitive spirit, and you'll be channeling Scout in no time! Next, we'll look at awesome group costume ideas to really bring your Scout to the next level.
Couple, Group and Family Costume Ideas
Make your TF2 Scout costume stand out from the crowd with these creative couple, group, and family costume ideas that'll turn heads at any convention or party.
Couple Costume Ideas
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Idea 1: The Ultimate Rivals (Difficulty: Easy)
Scout and Soldier are a classic TF2 pairing. Their constant bickering and clashing personalities make for hilarious interactions. This is my favorite couple costume idea because it's easy to pull off and guaranteed to get laughs.
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Idea 2: Brains and Brawn (Difficulty: Moderate)
Pair your Scout with a Medic for a fun "opposites attract" dynamic. The Medic's cool calculation contrasts perfectly with the Scout's brash energy, and their in-game relationship offers plenty of inspiration for playful banter.
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Idea 3: Double Trouble (Difficulty: Moderate)
Going with another Scout cosplayer? This opens the door to all sorts of mischief! Channel the energy of those TF2 promotional shorts where multiple Scouts cause chaos. Coordinate poses and come up with double the witty one-liners!
Group Costume Ideas
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Idea 1: The RED Team's Finest (Difficulty: Challenging)
- Assemble the core RED team! Round up a full TF2 crew (Heavy, Engineer, Pyro, Spy, Demoman, etc.) for the ultimate display of Team Fortress 2 power. This one requires coordination but makes for epic photos.
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Idea 2: Speed Demons (Difficulty: Easy)
Focus on agility! Pair your Scout with characters known for their speed, like Ashe from Overwatch or Sonic the Hedgehog. Emphasize quick movements and playful competition in your poses.
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Idea 3: The Cocky Crew (Difficulty: Moderate)
Form a squad of the most arrogant, wisecracking characters you can think of. Dante from Devil May Cry, Duke Nukem, or even Deadpool would fit right in with the Scout's over-the-top attitude.
Family Costume Ideas
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Idea 1: The Scout's Fam (Difficulty: Moderate)
This is where things get tricky, as Scout's family is largely a mystery. However, you could imagine his mom having a tough, no-nonsense attitude, and his many brothers likely sharing his competitive spirit!
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Idea 2: Sports Extravaganza! (Difficulty: Easy)
Embrace the Scout's athleticism! Dress as various sports players – a basketball star, a baseball legend, a soccer ace – the possibilities are endless. Focus on sporty outfits, props, and dynamic action poses.
If you've got a large family or friend group, consider a full-color war theme: half dress in Scout's RED attire, the other half as BLU team members. Instant, large-scale TF2 fun!
About Scout
The Scout is more than just a fast-talking, bat-wielding blur. He's a complex mix of bravado, insecurity, and undeniable charm. Let's peel back the layers of this TF2 legend to uncover what makes him tick.
Character Overview
- Role in Team Fortress 2: The Scout is the team's speedy offensive force, specializing in close-quarters skirmishes, capturing objectives, and generally being a thorn in the enemy's side.
- Voiced By: Nathan Vetterlein
Background and Personality Traits
- Personality: Arrogant, cocky, and always ready with a wisecrack. Beneath the bravado lies deep-seated insecurity about his place among his older, tougher brothers. He's constantly striving to prove himself.
- Appearance: Lean and athletic build. Wears his signature red T-shirt, grey pants, black cap, and various accessories like his headset and wrist brace. His wiry frame and casual attire emphasize speed over brute strength.
Role in the Story
- Claim to Fame: While not central to the core TF2 plot (which mostly revolves around the rivalry between RED and BLU), the Scout plays a crucial role in fast-paced matches. His ability to snatch objectives can lead to unexpected victories.
- Impact on Others: The Scout is both loved and loathed – teammates rely on his speed but can be annoyed by his attitude. Enemies are often the target of his relentless taunting.
Cultural Impact
- Fan Favorite: The Scout is one of the most popular TF2 cosplay characters due to his relatively simple outfit and larger-than-life personality.
- Memorable Quotes: His voice lines are legendary, often referenced in fan videos and online communities.
- Embodies the Underdog: Despite seeming shallow, the Scout's underdog story and hidden insecurities resonate with many players.
With this deeper understanding of the Scout, you're well-equipped to bring him to life—whether through your costume or by channeling his captivating spirit.
Further Reading
Conclusion
You've got the DIY skills, insights into the Scout's attitude, and even ideas for awesome group costumes. With this guide in hand, I'm confident you'll create an authentic and memorable TF2 Scout costume that channels his speed, swagger, and pure chaotic energy. Now go forth, and show everyone what it truly means to run circles around the competition!