Scottish Dirk

[The Tartan Sparky]

Just bought a new dirk. I’ve seen it depicted as going on the right hip, but also more centered on the body. Which is more correct for a Highlander of the 16-18th century to carry it?

[DCampbell16B]

If you are doing a historical representation, then just to the right of your sporran, or centered if no sporran.

[The Tartan Sparky]

If you are doing a historical representation, then just to the right of your sporran, or centered if no sporran.

That’s what I thought, thank you

[Jock Scot]

If you are doing a historical representation, then just to the right of your sporran, or centered if no sporran.

Bearing in mind a recent thread, I assume if a civilian was left handed, it would be acceptable to carry his dirk just on the left of the sporran?

[Father Bill]

Bearing in mind a recent thread, I assume if a civilian was left handed, it would be acceptable to carry his dirk just on the left of the sporran?

I'm tempted to think otherwise. In combat, the dirk might be used to fend off an opponent's sword with your left hand while attacking with the sword in your right. The dirk would be easier to draw in the left if it were worn to the right of the sporran.

[Jock Scot]

I'm tempted to think otherwise. In combat, the dirk might be used to fend off an opponent's sword with your left hand while attacking with the sword in your right. The dirk would be easier to draw in the left if it were worn to the right of the sporran.

I suppose an uneducated left hander he would naturally pick up crucifix handled sword in his left hand leaving his right hand to use the dirk?

[Father Bill]

I suppose an uneducated left hander he would naturally pick up crucifix handled sword in his left hand leaving his right hand to use the dirk?

If so, it would be impossible to engage effectively with another swordsman. Your right, regardless of hemispheric dominance is your more effective attack hand against another right handed swordsman (the majority). That means your left is best used as defense whether it be with a shield or dirk.

That being the case, your sword hangs on your left side for an effective draw, which is why, in turn, you always mount your horse from its left (called the 'near' side) - so that your sword doesn't poke your steed in the belly just as your foot is caught in the stirrup - a rather dangerous situation.

Similarly, this means that you are most likely to lead your horse from its left or 'near' side, and your dog always walks on your left so as not to be trampled.

All of this is also the reason that a man dances with his girl, pulling her close on his right side (for delightful contact) and pushing her away on his left so that she doesn't get poked on the handle of his sword.

It's all part of the same tradition and plan.

[Jock Scot]

Alright Bill, I bow to your superior knowledge! I will stick with my left handed pitchfork!

[Father Bill]

Alright Bill, I bow to your superior knowledge! I will stick with my left handed pitchfork!

[The Tartan Sparky]

I think I finally figured out how to post photos, this is my dirkIMG_0697 Medium.jpeg