Lets talk blades

**JamieKerr** · 9th February 08, 10:19 PM

The one accessory I've been truly missing is a good sgian dubh. The reason I've not bought one is because I've been trying to find a blade that has some special significance for me. That's not an easy thing to find, though. Well my Grandfather passed away a few months ago. I apologize for getting off topic briefly, but this next tidbit is so interesting and to the point. My GREAT grandfather was a veteran of the Spanish American War. There were 3 large trunks up in my gf's attic. These trunks were full of items from the Philippines, The Mexican border (he was stationed there too), Japan (no clue), Australia, and Africa. In one of these trunks is a blade which caught my interest...

This particular blade is about 7 inches long, and I have no idea where it originates. I am contemplating its usage for my kilt. I would likely need a different sheathe though, because the blade does not fit firmly into its existing metal sheathe. This makes me believe it was likely for some ceremonial purpose, and not every day use. Opinions?

Additionally, I must share the other blade which caught my attention. My Grandfather was a NYS Hunter Safety Instructor, as am I. This knife was a gift to him from another conservation agency.

Now. This knife is a bit big, measuring in at 8.25". But darn if it isn't a beautiful blade. The real problem is its existing leather sheathe, which larger than the knife, causing it to not lay nicely against my leg. So! Someone on this forum is custom making me a NEW sheathe for it!

**beloitpiper** · 10th February 08, 02:21 AM

That first one looks like a Kirpan, therefore probably from the Philippines. In my opinion, not the best blade to be paired with a kilt, but still probably worth something....

**BoldHighlander** · 10th February 08, 02:47 AM

Originally Posted by beloitpiper

That first one looks like a Kirpan, therefore probably from the Philippines. In my opinion, not the best blade to be paired with a kilt, but still probably worth something....

I would agree. At first glance it resembles the Arabic version (I have one from my ex-brother-in-law, a Moroccan) but I noticed right off the markings are all wrong & the handle design looks like art styles I've seen from the region (Philippines) on other knives.
Nice collector piece, despite the missing pieces in the handle it looks to be in great shape.

**Jack Daw** · 10th February 08, 06:56 AM

I know neither blade is traditional for the kilt. But, for informal wear, go ahead and wear your heirlooms with your kilt! I think those are nice blades.

I've lived in Tennessee, Arkansas, and Texas, so I hope you don't mind me showing off my pride and joy of an informal "dirk":

**mbhandy** · 10th February 08, 08:11 AM

Now that's a knife, Jack

MrBill

**jordanjm** · 10th February 08, 08:54 AM

All of the knives shown are beautiful!

**Tartan Hiker** · 10th February 08, 11:40 AM

The antler-hafted knife would look dandy in your hose, with that broken tine hooked over the edge.
The other one...not so much. Too much curve. It would make an odd-looking bulge at the front of your shin, and possibly wreck your hose. Drawing it would be quite problematic, and if it can't be withdrawn safely, what's the point?

**JamieKerr** · 10th February 08, 12:22 PM

Well put tartan hiker. I can't wait to see the sheath that cavscout whips up for me!

**Streetcar** · 10th February 08, 05:45 PM

The first appears to be a Jambia. You could probably take it over to Swordforum and get more info on it.

**BoldHighlander** · 11th February 08, 12:51 AM

Originally Posted by Jack Daw

I've lived in Tennessee, Arkansas, and Texas, so I hope you don't mind me showing off my pride and joy of an informal "dirk":

Indeed, very nice! and I notice you hold it correctly for a fight

I'll have to get a picture for you some time of my rustic Cherokee "scalper" Bowie I designed & had made. It's got a mule deer crown antler handle & a blade made from a farriers rasp, with the file left mainly intact.