Sgian Dubhs and Dirks

[Laird Arik]

Swords and such would always be loosened before battle to prevent sticking in the scabbard. Same for a Dirk. A Sgian wouldnt be in the sock for long while doing a mad charge. They were a sassanach invention like the fancey Dirk hilts and the wee kilt. As a utility blade they work fine, and it only takes 1/2 an inch of steel to cut a throat. IMHO

[Bob C]

The sgian dubh goes in the sock on the same side as your primary hand. 1.5 to 2 inches should show.

No, you do not have to wear a dirk. If you do, wear it on the right, to be drawn with your left hand. You right hand is for your Claymore. ;)

[ByDand]

This is what I was taught. The sgian dubh was always a hidden blade, when entering a friends house you would remove the knife from its hiding place to show you were friendly. When you were seated the knife was placed in the top of the stocking by your strong hand. This was done so while seated you could, if required, draw the knife quickly. As for the dirk, I was also taught to keep it on the side of your strong hand. I don't see many people wearing a dirk these days, except for Burns' Nights or other formal Scottish galas. Just my two cents worth.

[David Dalglish]

This is what I was taught. The sgian dubh was always a hidden blade, when entering a friends house you would remove the knife from its hiding place to show you were friendly. When you were seated the knife was placed in the top of the stocking by your strong hand. This was done so while seated you could, if required, draw the knife quickly. As for the dirk, I was also taught to keep it on the side of your strong hand. I don't see many people wearing a dirk these days, except for Burns' Nights or other formal Scottish galas. Just my two cents worth.

This is how you should show your Sgian Dubh I agree with you 100%

[Rab Gordon]

I've always worn the Sgian Dubh on my right side and make them with the edge facing back and handle pattern facing out when worn so it's ready for use when drawn with the right hand.
I make left handed Sgian Dubhs with the blade direction reversed for wearing in the left stocking.

Rab

Sgian Dubhs