Carrying a Sgian Dubh

[The Supreme Canuck]

Right, but this is Canada. Though, from what Blu says, it doesn't look to be a problem.

And now, since I'm going to be a law student in three years, I present the statutes:

89.

(1) Every person commits an offence who, without lawful excuse, carries a weapon, a prohibited device or any ammunition or prohibited ammunition while the person is attending or is on the way to attend a public meeting.

Seems to me that carrying a sgian dubh qualifies as a legal excuse, especially with the precedent set recently regarding the carrying of kirpans. Legal on the grounds that it's a religious thing. Sgian dubhs are a cultural thing.

90. (1) Every person commits an offence who carries a weapon, a prohibited device or any prohibited ammunition concealed, unless the person is authorized under the Firearms Act to carry it concealed.

Now, I doubt that a sgian dubh would be considered concealed, since you can see part of the handle at all times. Probably not a problem here.

So, the federal government doesn't seem to prohibit it, but I'm not sure about the province. So I think I'll still ask.

[macwilkin]

Check with one of the local police and/or the Divisional Pipe Bands for the RCMP -- if anyone is going to know the skinny on sgain dubhs and the law in Canada, it would be these folks:

http://www.torontopolicepipeband.com/

http://www.rcmppipesanddrums.ca/

Couple of examples for you -- the second link has quite a few other links to other RCMP Divisions accross Canada.

Cheers,

Todd

[The Supreme Canuck]

Ha! Hilariously good find. That'll do, that'll do...

Edit: And done. We'll see shortly, with luck.

[Bob C]

Right, but this is Canada. Though, from what Blu says, it doesn't look to be a problem.

And now, since I'm going to be a law student in three years, I present the statutes:

[b]

Seems to me that carrying a sgian dubh qualifies as a legal excuse, especially with the precedent set recently regarding the carrying of kirpans. Legal on the grounds that it's a religious thing. Sgian dubhs are a cultural thing.

[b]

Now, I doubt that a sgian dubh would be considered concealed, since you can see part of the handle at all times. Probably not a problem here.

So, the federal government doesn't seem to prohibit it, but I'm not sure about the province. So I think I'll still ask.

The application of those statutes to a sgian dubh would depend upon the legal definition of a weapon.

I've asked police officers here in NY and been told that a blade under 4 inches, sharp on only one side, is perfectly legal to carry.

When the non-kilted ask me about it, I tell them it's a pocket knife for those without pockets.

[The Supreme Canuck]

Yeah, a sgian dubh is legally a weapon, so the stautues apply. Doesn't really matter, I e-mailed an RCMP drum major. Hopefully he gets back to me soon.

Oh, and good line, by the way.

[The Wizard of BC]

I have a couple of RCMP customers. Never thought to ask them this question. I'll call Monday and inquire.

[Colin]

I have never worn a dirk, but i have worn a sgian dubh around a number of times and have never had any problems.

[The Supreme Canuck]

And I'm sure I could do the same. I still don't want to break a law by doing so, though. Call me stubborn.

[The Wizard of BC]

I just got off the phone with my RCMP contact.

The "Unofficial" Official word is that any knife may be carried if: (1) it is not concealed. (2) it is not taken into a secure or sensitive area. An airport, or courtroom for example.

To the RCMP, a knife in a sock is treated the same as any other sheath knife carried on a belt. Something to be aware of when questioning a suspect but otherwise of no importance.
My contact stated "A guy in a kilt with a knife in his sock would not be a reason to stop, question, or otherwise suspect him of any infringment of any statute I know of". "He may however be asked where he purchased it so the officer may buy one for himself."

As this statment comes from a serving RCMP officer it would apply Canada wide. Your local municipality may have another statute but my contact does not know of any that do.

The referanced case of the Sikh knife....it's a Human Rights issue having to do with a knife carried into a school. The kid was 12. Not yet an adult authorized to have it in the first place. But is claiming religious freedom.

[Moosehead]

As an addition to Steve's comments, as it is partially visible, it is not considered "concealed". Also, there are no length limitations on blades in Canada. I've seen many guys, not kilted mind, walking around in the Maritimes with 12" belt knives. No questions asked.