When is a dirk appropriate?

[MacMillan of Rathdown]

I am no expert on Burns night traditions, I can't abide haggis and I am afraid that R Burns' words do little for me. However, on the rare occasion that I have gone to a Burns night, the dirk was in place by where the haggis was to be done to death.It was not worn by anyone.

A word of warning to those who have an expensive dirk or sword, do not cut haggis or wedding cakes with them. Unless the blades are cleaned immediately and properly after the event your blade will suffer. I am sure MoR has seen many a ruined blade at Wilkinsons that were used as cake cutters. I certainly have.

Quite true! They used to regularly come into the factory rusted to the scabbard and some (most) were literally beyond saving.

My advice to all Burns Supper Afficianados and celebrants:

1) Buy an inexpensive dirk with a stainless steel blade for the haggis ceremony. Never use an antique or family heirloom. But if you do--
2) (The following applies to all blades, including stainless steel blades) Wash the blade with liquid soap and dry it well. DO NOT PUT IT BACK IN THE SHEATH OR SCABBARD!
3) After the blade has had a chance to become completely dry, apply a light coat of cooking oil to the blade and wrap it in cling film. DO NOT PUT IT BACK IN THE SHEATH OR SCABBARD. Instead, take it to the event wrapped in a large cloth napkin.
4) Immediately after poking the haggis (or cutting the cake) use the cloth napkin to wipe off the blade. DO NOT PUT IT BACK IN THE SHEATH OR SCABBARD!
5) As soon as you get home carefully wash the blade using liquid soap and dry it well. Leave it standing overnight, POINT DOWN, so that it will be completely dry in the morning.
6) Apply a light coating of gun oil, or 3-In-1 oil, to the blade (do not use WD40 as this will not protect the blade from rust).
7) Now you can put the dirk, sgian dubh, or sword back in its scabbard.
8) As a precaution check the blade every month to be sure that it is not rusting or discolouring. After examining the blade, oil it, and put it back in the scabbard.