We close for the Easter break from 15:00 on Thursday the 28th of March and will re-open at 08:30 on Tuesday the 2nd of April. Any orders placed during this time will be despatched from noon on Tuesday the 2nd of April.

Sgian Dubhs - your questions answered

If you aren’t familiar with a sgian dubh, you may have some questions about how to wear them, where you can take them and more.

We’ll try to answer your sgian dubh questions here:

What is a sgian dubh?

A sgian dubh is a small knife, traditionally worn in the sock when you are wearing a kilt.

What does sgian dubh mean?

Sgian dubh is a Gaelic term, which translates literally as black knife. However, dubh in Gaelic can also mean "hidden", which would mean sgian dubh translates to "hidden knife".

How do you pronounce sgian dubh?

Sgian dubh isn’t pronounced how it is spelt. You should say "skeen doo".

How do you wear a sgian dubh?

The sgian dubh is worn on the side of your dominant hand tucked into the sock when wearing a kilt, with the handle visible.

Can you take a sgian dubh on a plane?

A sgian dubh is a restricted item, so you wouldn’t be able to take it in your hand luggage. It will be fine if it is packed carefully in your hold luggage but check with your airline to confirm.

What is a sgian dubh made from?

Traditionally, sgian dubhs blades were made from Scandinavian steel, with handles made from stag horn.

Today, stag horn remains a very popular material for the handle, although handles may be made from wood, pewter, resin and many other materials.

SHARE BLOG

DISCOVER OUR OTHER STORIES

All your Highland accessories available here

At The Sgian Dubh Company, we believe you should be able to get all the accessories for your Highland outfit in one place.

Father's Day Gift Guide

Sunday 18th June is the day to celebrate your father (or father figure). And what better way to show your dad how much he means to you than with a gift from...

The Sgian Dubh Company January Sale

January has plenty of opportunities to wear your kilt. The Sgian Dubh Company want to help you enjoy January with 15% off all Sgian dubhs.