Indeed, everyone else has stated what I know... but I'll add more anyway.

Generally 3 eagle feathers=chief, 2=chieftain/similar, 1=armiger (one with his own (Scottish) coat of arms). In those circumstances, the crest will ALSO be shown NOT in a "strap and buckle" format, but in a plain circlet, because it doesn't mean an "allegiance" to anyone else, just that these are that person's own legally-owned arms.

Of course, assumption of arms and wearing of any kind of feather you wish is perfectly legal in the US (provided the feathers themselves are not from some illegally-obtained species or whatnot). But many people consider that not following the Scottish rules at Scottish games is at worst morally repugnant and at best a slightly inappropriate thing to do? I'm not one of those people, but there are many who will look down their nose at you if you do.

If I had to advocate for a middle road, I would suggest that wearing your own arms in a plain circlet, even if they have been assumed under American traditions, is perfectly fine at Scottish games (are you going to tell me that I can't wear my own arms, even if they weren't granted by Lord Lyon, anywhere I want in this "land of the free"?).

However, DO steer clear of anything that looks like an eagle feather (even one as an armiger, unless you have been granted arms by Lord Lyon--in other words NOT if you've assumed the arms yourself). I think this is more likely to make it look like you are "putting on airs" than anything else. Don't do it unless you KNOW you are entitled to it, because there are ALWAYS "feather police" out there wanting to know about your entitlement.

Just my thoughts.

Kyle=