Sgian Dubh Question(s)

[McMurdo]

As sgian dubhs for most people are ornimental, I ask does it matter if it's sharp or not? As someone who collects knifes I say its gotta be sharp.

It does sound like a nice piece and I'm sure you could have someone hone the edge for you if you wanted it, but I think you should ask yourself, what will I use this for, if it is used for dressy occasions, and all that will be seen is the top of the handle I say leave it. It's not like you will wear it everyday, so enjoy it for what it is,
congratulations on the new piece.

[McMurdo]

Hey Ron is this the one you have?

[Rab Gordon]

Hopefully I can shed some light on this thread.

There is no basis in Scots (or English) law for a Sgian Dubh to have a blunt blade as they are considered exempt from normal knife laws when worn with a kilt.
However some new legislation is about to be introduced by the Scottish Parliament restricting sales of swords and non-domestic knives. The details of this have not been finalised.

The handle of a Sgian Dubh angling away from the leg a little for comfort is often seen.

The handle of the Sgian Dubh described is made of plastic.

Rab

[thescot]

McMurdo, that's a very cool lookng sgian dubh, no matter what.

I guess I'm a little late weighing in here, but I never let timeliness keep my from putting my two cents in.

I personally carry a knife as tool; it used for lots of handy things, and a dull knife is useless. I own several sgian dubhs, some good only for looks, some are nice blades. One came with the same totally unsharpened edge.

But, I must admit that I never sharpened the plain one. Just never got around to it, but then, I never carry it either. Ha. If you're wearing it strictly for looks, don't bother. But if you intend to use it to replace a pocket knife, like I do, then get your friend to put a good edge on it.

In any event, enjoy the knife and appreciate so fine a friend.

[IEScotsman]

I don't see the point in selling a blunt sgian dubh. Many of us wear it in place of a pocket knife (as I would) and at the heart of the matter, the sgian dubh is a dagger. They should come with a blade.

[pig140]

I would like to carry one with as much use and looks. So, where can I find a quality sgian dubh with a sharp blade at a reasonable price? Preferably, something that is mainly daywear, but could pass as formal.

[Streetcar]

I would like to carry one with as much use and looks. So, where can I find a quality sgian dubh with a sharp blade at a reasonable price? Preferably, something that is mainly daywear, but could pass as formal.

These are all pretty subjective terms. What do you consider a reasonable price to pay for a quality sgian dubh - and what do you consider a quality sgian dubh?

I'm still a big fan of Cold Steel's version. However, you can probably only find it on Ebay right now.

It works for what I need. However, I really would like to get one of Rab's damascus sgians...

[pig140]

For quality, I'd say that of a Buck, Kershaw, Gerber, etc. knife. Just a good knife, nothing extremely fancy. I would say the quality of your cold steel, but I really don't like the non-traditional look. If they made that knife with a trad. handle, it'd be perfect.

As for price, preferably $50 price range but I guess up to $75 if I have to. Don't know alot about what they cost and who makes good ones.

As far as Rab's, I'd love to have one, and I'm sure they're the worth the money, but that's out of my price range.....maybe one day....

[Streetcar]

For quality, I'd say that of a Buck, Kershaw, Gerber, etc. knife. Just a good knife, nothing extremely fancy. I would say the quality of your cold steel, but I really don't like the non-traditional look. If they made that knife with a trad. handle, it'd be perfect.

As for price, preferably $50 price range but I guess up to $75 if I have to. Don't know alot about what they cost and who makes good ones.

As far as Rab's, I'd love to have one, and I'm sure they're the worth the money, but that's out of my price range.....maybe one day....

Tricky. I think your best bet is to lurk Ebay for a Mini-Culloden. The handle - though Kraton - has a semi-traditional style.
I think the alternative is to sharpen an existing blade (as has been suggested) or even building your own. I recall a couple of threads on the subject.

[Riverkilt]

I am wondering if the larger knife companies have any knowledge of the current kilt boom? Would think they'd have plenty of sales if they addressed it with a quality product. They certainly make knives for plenty of niche markets...why not OUR niche market??

Ron