Are you complete without a Sgian Dubh?

[Smayniac]

I carry a leatherman mostly everywhere I go for the same reason, It is so useful, however, when I am aboard my or any other sailing vessel I carry a knife in a scabbard either on my belt or tucked into my sock instead of my Sgian Dubh.

The reason here is simple, if a rope needs to be cut now, it needs the be cut now and not when I have unfastened the leather pouch, extracted the leatherman, unfolded the correct blade and then cut the rope.

When things go wrong on a sailing boat, they tend to go wrong quickly, badly and all over the place and a very quick response is usually the only way to stop things getting worse. Most sailors I know, including myself can get out a knife from a scabbard faster than they can think about it.

I've stayed out until now, but I am of much the same opinion as Mark on this. I carry a small multitools almost all the time. When kilted, I usually carry a locking folder tucked into my waistband. If I am boating or working as a rigger, I ALWAYS carry either a straight blade or a one hand opening folder, knife discipline is critical, but the right tool at the right time can be life or death in a boat.

While we're on the topic, I was once asked by a police officer outside my front door if I was carrying "a concealed dagger or dirk" while kilted around the house. There was a locking folder in my waistband, but he didn't seem to be overly concerned about it, more an awareness thing in case I didn't know the rules in this state.

Bob