Carving Scottish Dirks

**Orvis** · 18th March 11, 03:21 PM

For those of you who are looking for a how-to manual on how to make and carve an historically-correct 18th c. Highland dirk handle and scabbard (assuming you already have a blade), try the new publication, Carving Scottish Dirks, by Vince and Grace Evans at http://www.lulu.com/product/cd/carvi...to-cd/12445072 .

Lulu.com is a site that permits authors to self-publish, and the books are apparently printed as they are ordered. The Evans' instruction manual comes either as a 36 page book (184 color photos on glossy paper @ $34.95) or as a photo CD (opens on either PCs or Macs) with 243 color photos @ $19.95. There isn't much text, but the photos are very clear and make the construction steps self-explanatory. I got both the book and the photo CD (donating the later to my 1745 reenacting group's library). IMHO, these publications are well worth the money. Lulu.com's service is good - delivery took about a week, and the items were well-packaged.

Those of you that are familiar with the Evans' dirks know that they are high-quality, historically accurate pieces as to style and detail, and quite expensive. I'd rate them right up there with Glenn McClain's dirks. I've seen a couple Evans dirks and they are to die for. According to their Lulu comment, their on-line dirk tutorial got so many hits that they decided to publish the dirk tutorial. Will their on-line basket-hilt tutorial follow? Chan eil fhios agam. Tha mi an dochas! (I don't know. I'm hoping!)

**Erikm** · 18th March 11, 07:09 PM

I would love to have a Vince Evans Dirk, there very nice!

Thanks for the link

**Dale Seago** · 18th March 11, 07:12 PM

I've had occasion to handle a few, stifling my impulse under Vince & Grace's watchful eyes to grab one and run, and they are indeed exquisite.

These instructions should be very helpful to DIYers.

**Ryan Ross** · 18th March 11, 07:25 PM

I hear that this is a great volume, and I understand that at least one forum member has already used it to very good effect.

Originally Posted by Dale Seago

I've had occasion to handle a few, stifling my impulse under Vince & Grace's watchful eyes to grab one and run, and they are indeed exquisite.

Likewise! Though, in most instances where I've handled one of Vince and Grace's dirks, the eyes watching me were those of Lamar Britt- probably the only man in the world who owns THREE of them!

I'm counting on him willing one to me, in the event that he passes on to that big Sporran Shop in the sky.