Sgian Dubh

The sgian dubh (pronounced skee-an-doo) is an important part of the traditional Highland dress for men. It is a small single-bladed sheath knife about 3″ long, that is traditionally tucked into the hose (top of a man's kilt sock) on the off-side. As part of Highland dress, the sgian dubh is decorative as well as functional and can add a touch of class to any outfit.

The sgian dubh, also known as a skean dhu or anglicised as 'skene do' or other spellings, is a small single-edged knife that has been a part of traditional Scottish highland dress for centuries. The word ‘sgian dubh’ is Scots Gaelic for ‘black knife’, and its origins are uncertain. Some suggest it better translates as ‘hidden knife’. The sgian dubh has become a symbol of Scotland’s culture and a popular part of its traditional dress.

A famous quote by the late Scottish poet, Robert Burns, sums up the importance of the sgian dubh: “O, wad some Power the giftie gie us, To see oursels as others see us! It wad frae monie a blunder free us, An’ foolish notion: What airs in dress an’ gait wad lea’e us, A sgian dubh!” Thus another important use today is ceremonially to slice open the Haggis at Burns Suppers. 

The sgian dubh is a unique and iconic symbol of Scotland’s culture and heritage, and its use and importance have endured for centuries. It is an important part of highland dress, and it is a symbol of hospitality, pride, and tradition. The sgian dubh is also a popular accessory for formal occasions, and it is used in a variety of ceremonies and dances. The sgian dubh is an important part of Scottish culture and heritage, and its use has continued to this day.

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Traditions of the Sgian Dubh

A sgian dubh is a short, single-edged knife that is an essential part of traditional men’s Highland dress. This small dagger has its origins in Highland military and self-defence and is worn tucked into the hose of the wearer. The sgian dubh is steeped in superstition and legend, which makes it an important component of modern Highlands dress and a symbol of Scottish tradition.

The origin of the sgian dubh is unknown, though the most likely explanation is that it is descended from ancient knife designs from Celtic and Viking cultures. It has been suggested that the word sgian dubh comes from the Celtic sgian sonn for “black knife” and the Gaelic dubh for “dark” but the exact origin is uncertain. It is possible that the sgian dubh originated from a traditional tool used to clean and maintain the weapons of a Highlander - one of the few objects he was allowed to carry by law.

Today the sgian dubh is an essential part of ceremonial Highland dress for special occasions such as weddings and Burns’ Suppers. It is worn tucked in the hose of the right side of the wearer, and is typically made of wood or metal with a curved, single-edge blade. The handle is often decorated with Celtic designs, such as spirals, knots, and interlacing patterns that have been popular throughout Scotland’s history.

An important part of the sgian dubh tradition is the tradition of the wearer offering a “wee drink” to others present in the room. It is believed that carrying this small weapon symbolizes courage and invokes hospitality, encouraging the wearer to offer a tipple of whisky or beer to those who, in a less traditional setting, might be intimidated by the offering of a weapon.

In addition to its use in formal Highland dress, the sgian dubh is also worn by many in the modern Scottish style. Unlike its ceremonial use, the modern sgian dubh may be smaller, have a simpler handle, and have a blade that is hidden inside the handle. A black cord or leather thong is often used to tie the sgian dubh to the hose, while others may opt to tuck it into a pocket, boot, or belt.The sgian dubh has long been a symbol of Scottish tradition and courage. From its use as a self-defence tool to its more recent associations with ceremonial Highland dress, the sgian dubh is an important symbol of Highland culture and a reminder of the importance of camaraderie and hospitality in Highland society.

More examples of its use:

• The sgian dubh is often worn by Scottish warriors to demonstrate courage in battle. It can also be used as a weapon during sparring matches or as a traditional method of self-protection.
• The sgian dubh is used to honour special occasions such as weddings, graduations and Burns’ Suppers. Its presence is meant to signify hospitality and an offer of friendship to those present.
• The sgian dubh is also used in Highland dancing to create an impressive display of Highland skill and beauty.
• The sgian dubh is a popular accessory for formal Highland dress and is seen as a symbol of courage and strength in the Scottish people.
• As a sign of camaraderie and unity, the sgian dubh is offered up for people to share a “wee drink” to symbolize the friendship and bond between them.

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Wearing & using a Sgian Dubh

The sgian dubh has been a part of highland dress since at least the 16th century, when knives were widely used by men for everyday tasks such as cutting food, trimming belts and opening bottles. By the 18th century, the sgian dubh had become a popular accessory for men to wear with their kilts and it has remained an essential part of highland dress ever since.

The sgian dubh has a variety of uses and is traditionally used as a utility knife. It is also a symbol of hospitality, and when a guest enters a home, the host will offer them a dram of whisky and present them with the sgian dubh. This is a gesture of friendship and hospitality, and is still an important part of Scottish culture today.

The sgian dubh is also an important part of the Highland games, as it is used in the ‘Highland Fling’ and ‘Sword Dance’. The sgian dubh is also a popular accessory for formal occasions, such as weddings and other special occasions.

The basic usage of a sgian dubh is to be tucked into the hose of a kilt, giving the effect of the knife being partially or fully hidden. Depending on the outfit, the sgian dubh can be tucked all the way into the top of the sock, or only part of the way. It is traditionally worn in the right sock with the handle showing, though strictly speaking a left-hander could wear his on the left. These blades were once hidden in a pocket under the armpit, but it has become customary to position the sgian dubh more openly as a courtesy.

If wearing the traditional Highland dress, then it is best to pair the sgian dubh with a sporran, as this creates a much neater and more formal look. The sgian dubh should be tucked in to the left sock, and with the blade pointing downwards so that it is not visible when not in use. For an even smarter appearance, some men may opt to wear their sgian dubh with a kilt pin. This looks very stylish and helps to keep the traditional knife in place.

When wearing a sgian dubh in formal dress, the knife must be worn so as not to create a hazard. It should always be placed so that the tip of the blade is pointing downwards and away from any guests or onlookers.

Whilst wearing the sgian dubh, it is important to be tactful and respectful. The knife should never be displayed in a threatening manner, or used in any aggressive way. If there is any sort of disturbance or potential danger, it is generally accepted wisdom to hand the knife over, rather than using it in any capacity.

In terms of traditional uses, a sgian dubh can be used for practical daily purposes such as to skin oranges, to open bottles or as an ornamental letter opener. This allows the user to elegantly open an envelope, providing them with the perfect touch of sophistication. It should no longer be used to stab people. Another important use today is to cut the Haggis at Burns Suppers. 

Finally, it is important to remember to keep your sgian dubh safe and secure. If not worn properly, it may cause injury or damage to the wearer or any bystanders. As such, it is important to ensure that the weapon is always stored in the right place and securely out of the reach of children or pets.

As such, the sgian dubh is an important part of traditional Highland dress, as well as being a practical and stylish accessory. It is a symbol of respect and should be worn with the utmost care, ensuring that it is worn correctly and always stored responsibly.

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Materials

The sgian dubh is usually crafted from steel and its handle is made from a variety of materials, including wood, antler, bone, ivory and horn. These handles are often intricately carved with patterns and designs and the blade is usually inscribed with the owner’s initials. The handle is usually secured with a pin and the knife is then tucked into the top of the kilt hose.

Blunted or plastic imitations are also produced for economy or safety. But most models we offer are authentic and come with high quality steel blades that can be sharpened and used for practical purposes. Your choice is entirely a matter of taste. The material that a sgian dubh can be made from today includes:

• Stainless Steel: This is the most common material used for sgian dubh knives. It is strong and durable, and is often used to create a traditional look.
• Wood: This is a traditional material used for sgian dubh handles. It is usually carved with patterns and designs, and often features a decorative pin.
• Antler: This is a traditional material used for sgian dubh handles, and it is often carved with intricate designs and patterns.
• Bone: This is another traditional material used for sgian dubh handles. It is often carved with intricate designs and patterns, and can feature a decorative pin.
• Ivory: This is a luxurious material used for sgian dubh handles, and it is often carved with intricate designs and patterns.
• Horn: This is a traditional material used for sgian dubh handles, and it is often carved with intricate designs and patterns.

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Decorations

The sgian dubh can be styled and decorated in a variety of ways, such as carving the handle with intricate designs and patterns, engraving the blade with the owner’s initials, and adding a decorative pin to the handle. It can also be personalized with a variety of materials, such as leather and various metals.

The ornamentation, as well as on other components of traditional Highland Dress, was more than decorative. In a society where banks or other places of safe keeping barely existed and paper money widely distrusted, the embellishment of personal apparel with rare jewels and expensive metals was a practical means to carry wealth on the person… where it could be easily defended.

Jewels or other decorations can be used to make a sgian dubh more impressive by adding a decorative top to the handle. Variants include a 'ball top', which is a round ball made of metal, wood, or stone, and a 'jewel top', which is a gemstone or other precious stone set into the handle. Other decorative tops include Celtic knotwork, engraved designs, and inlaid stones. Examples include:

• Jewelled Top: A jewelled top sgian dubh is a traditional style of sgian dubh that features a precious stone or gemstone set into the top of the handle. Examples include a diamond, ruby, sapphire, emerald, or other precious stone.
• Ball Top: A ball top sgian dubh is a traditional style of sgian dubh that features a metal ball set into the top of the handle. Examples include a silver, gold, or bronze ball.
• Celtic Knotwork: Celtic knotwork is a traditional style of sgian dubh that features intricate knotwork designs carved into the handle.
• Engraved: An engraved sgian dubh is a traditional style of sgian dubh that features a design or message engraved into the handle.
• Inlaid: An inlaid sgian dubh is a traditional style of sgian dubh that features a design or message inlaid into the handle. Examples include a metal inlay or a stone inlay.
• Filigree: A filigree sgian dubh is a traditional style of sgian dubh that features intricate metalwork designs on the handle.
• Etched: An etched sgian dubh is a traditional style of sgian dubh that features a design or message etched into the handle.

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Motifs

A wide variety of designs  can be represented on a sgian dubh, to display the allegiance or traditions of the wearer, including:

• Clan crests: These are typically the coat of arms or motto of a particular clan and are often seen on sgian dubh knives.
• Celtic knots: These are symbols of eternity and never-ending love, and they are often seen on sgian dubh knives.
• Thistles: These are symbols of Scotland and are often seen as a sign of courage, strength, and resilience.
• Animals: Stags, eagles, and lions are popular motifs for sgian dubh knives.
• Other traditional patterns: These could include knotwork, Celtic crosses, and other traditional motifs.

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All made in Scotland to traditional standards