At the Sgian Dubh Company, we are proud to be a family-run business steeped in heritage, skill, and innovation.
The company’s roots go back to 1977, when Charles Buyers, the grandfather of the current proprietors, purchased a small business named Horncraft.
Known for crafting cutlery with cow horn handles, Horncraft's acquisition laid the foundation for what would become a hallmark of Scottish ceremonial attire.
In 1978, just a year after the acquisition, The Sgian Dubh Company introduced its first product: the SD5.
Taking inspiration from Horncraft’s horn-handled techniques, the team crafted a thistle-shaped handle from African Blackwood, a style that quickly gained popularity.
This humble beginning marked the start of an enduring journey in traditional Scottish knife-making.
A pivotal moment came when a local newspaper featured a story about an unemployed woodcarver.
Rather than let the artisan's talent go to waste, Charles Buyers offered him a job.
This generous act not only supported the craftsman but also sparked a new line of hand-carved wooden handle sgian dubhs, bringing distinctive artistic value to the company’s offerings.
As the business grew, so did customer input.
During visits to client shops, requests began pouring in for sgian dubhs with staghorn handles. Answering the call, the company began experimenting with this challenging yet beautiful material.
In 1982, The Sgian Dubh Company expanded further with the launch of its SD36 range. Like its predecessor, the SD36 was well-received and helped solidify the company's position as a leader in its field.
Today, The Sgian Dubh Company remains a proud family-run business, blending tradition with creativity.
From humble beginnings to becoming an internationally respected name, The Sgian Dubh Company story is one of resilience, artistry, and a deep respect for Scottish heritage.
Every piece is not just an accessory, but a symbol of identity, history, and craftsmanship that spans generations. So why not browse the range from the Sgian Dubh Company?
