What's Your Position on Flashes?

**Jack Daw** · 22nd February 08, 05:43 PM

I used to wear my flashes on the outside (9:00 o'clock on the left shin; 3:00 on the right), but now I wear them at 10:00 (L) and 2:00 (R) based on observations of some ol' time pipers. I never got around to asking why. Anyone know? What's your preference?

**ccga3359** · 22nd February 08, 05:48 PM

Same way. I've heard two fingers from the shin bone (which is around 10:00 & 2:00). I think that it may be more traditional as when tying on garters they would tend to be in that position as it would be too hard to tie a knot on the side. The same arguement goes for tying ghille brogues.

**beloitpiper** · 22nd February 08, 05:48 PM

I've seen photos of the military wearing them more to the front, but I wear mine to the side. All personal preference, I believe.

**BoldHighlander** · 22nd February 08, 05:51 PM

Originally Posted by Jack Daw

I used to wear my flashes on the outside (9:00 o'clock on the left shin; 3:00 on the right), but now I wear them at 10:00 (L) and 2:00 (R) based on observations of some ol' time pipers. I never got around to asking why. Anyone know? What's your preference?

I'd like to know an answer to that too!
I was the same way, but I've been hearing the same about wearing them more forward

**The Wizard of BC** · 22nd February 08, 05:53 PM

I have had old timers and former military tell me the proper placement is the 10:00 & 2:00 positions. I prefer mine to be further back. I usually align the front of the flash at the side of my leg. This is even slightly further back than the 3:00 & 9:00 position. Don't know why I do it but it feels right to me.
I think it comes from having my flashes catch on things and get all bent.

BTW I also carry my Sgain Dubh back there too.

OK, I'm weird. So call the Kilt Cops on me.

**McMurdo** · 22nd February 08, 05:57 PM

I wear them on the side basically 9 and 3, however sometimes it's 10 and 2 it just depends on the day.

**Chef** · 22nd February 08, 06:34 PM

I was always taught that the front of the flashes should line up with the side of the shin bone. That puts them slightly in front of 10 and 2. Maybe 10:15 and 1:45

**Standard** · 22nd February 08, 06:42 PM

I was told the 'backedge' of the flashes go at 10:00 and 2:00 which puts them forward of the side of the leg. Looks ok to me in that position, but much farther forward looks odd to me.

**Mael Coluim** · 22nd February 08, 07:08 PM

I use to wear them at 9 & 6, but now 10 & 2. Why? Advice given by Mr. M. A. C. Newsome here stating they are more easily seen.

**Nighthawk** · 22nd February 08, 09:17 PM

Personally, it all depends on the situation for me. If I'm at work, I wear them at 9 and 3, just because that looks a little more casual to me. If my wife and I are going out to dinner or to a semi formal or formal event, it's 10 and 2. 10 and 2 is more traditional from what I've read, so in formal settings, I care a little more, whereas with my just-barely-more-evolved-than-apes co-workers, there is no one worth impressing and no need to stand on protocol. I find them to be more comfortable centered.