I think MANY of us have gotten the "You look like you can handle yourself" or "I wouldn't mess with you" kind of comment.

One person elaborated on it to me once in a pub...

"To wear a kilt, you either have to be crazy or REALLY know how to defend yourself. Either way, I'm not going to mess with you." I took it as a compliment and smiled and he bought me a beer to make sure I was in a good mood.