In Scotland is it okay to carry a broadsword with Highland wear?

[Troglodyte]

I read that a Scottish man was arrested in Glasgow for carrying a sgian dubh, dirk, and broadsword with his Highland wear.

Criminal Law (Consolidation) (Scotland) Act 1995 Section 49(5)(c) says you can have an article with a blade or point in public if it's part of a national costume.
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1995/39/section/49

I've always heard the law above protects carrying a sgian dubh. But, I've never thought about dirks or broadswords. Regardless of what the written law says (courts can sort that out), I'm interested in whether the average Scot believes carrying a dirk is permitted. If yes, then about about a broadsword?

British law is quite clear and specific when it comes to carrying edged 'weapons' in public.


Both the law of England and Wales, and that of Scotland (which is not necessarily the same) make provision for ceremonial knives and swords - and the sgian dubh gets noted and identified for exception.

But the rule is, it must form part of a uniform or national dress and must not be wealded in public.

The police in Scotland are much more understanding about sgian dubhs when worn with the kilt generally, than the English police have the reputation for, but the kiltie could expect to have it confiscated if he wore it to the footie or into a pub afterwards. There is no need for a blade of any kind at these events and places, so the law is in place to protect potential stab victims.

As regards a dirk and, more so, a broadsword, the '45 Rising put paid to the legitimacy of those. There is no pretending that they are anything other than attack weapons with a reputation that has them feared around the world - no court would entertain any amount of 'But I only meant them for show...'

So ask yourself why would you want to walk around in public in Scotland with these weapons?

Not even the most passionate and traditionally-minded Highland-origin Scot would be favourably impressed - far from it. He would eye you with scorn, and no doubt explain in clear and precise language what he thought of you, and how your actions could have an adverse affect for the future of the legitimate carrying of a sgian.

Even if not seen as widely or frequently as many foreign visitors to Scotland expect, to the Scot in his homeland, the kilt is nothing unusual and certainly not fancy-dress. So there is no need to play-up your part if going kilted helps you enjoy your visit to our country.

The when-in-Rome-do-as-the-Romans-do is the best advice that can be given to any tourist - if you see it being done in Scotland, feel free to do likewise, if not, steer well-clear. And leave the dirk and sword at home..!