Sgian Dubhs by Rab Gordon
Rab first started making Sgian Dubhs when he couldn't find one that he would personally like to own and wear with his kilt, ie. not a plastic import, while still at a price that was reasonably affordable.
Primarily he was looking for an authentic style Sgian Dubh with a carved wood handle that was traditionally decorative without being over the top. Most important it had to be functional and look natural when worn with the kilt. Rab then set out to make the best quality Sgian Dubhs that he could and he continues to improve his Sgian Dubhs, sourcing better materials and expanding his skills and methods.
You may find one of our currently available Sgian Dubhs that you would like, or if you'd like one specially made for you and can wait, then please ask about a commissioning a bespoke Sgian Dubh.
Unique & Collectable
Each of my Sgian Dubhs has its own unique character and identity, so each one is assigned an individual serial number, starting 'SG'. This number is written in the presentation box and can be engraved upon the blade on request. Whether as a gift or for yourself, there are a large number of customisation options. Many of my Sgian Dubhs are commissioned as heirlooms to be passed on to the next generation.
Craftmanship
While my work can't be said to be completely handmade from start to finish I do invest a considerable amount of craftmanship in what I create. I believe my work to be more art than production but where appropriate make full creative use of modern technology to extend and supplement traditional craft skills. Over a number of years I have developed my own specialized methods, techniques and equipment; by doing so I feel I am able to offer you exceptional quality and custom features while at a price level that is still affordable..
Care and Maintenance
It is always best for long term storage to remove the sheath to allow air to circulate around the blade. Keep clean and dry and apply a very thin film of oil occasionally to the blade. I use Ballistol oil and Camellia oil which is more commonly used on Japanese swords and is food safe, however you may use a good quality olive or walnut oil. Likewise on the handle but use very sparingly
Money Back Guarantee
I hope you'll be pleasantly surprised at how well my Sgian Dubhs compare with the mass produced plastic imitations most often seen or those very rare, expensive and totally hand made Sgian . However, I confidently offer a money back guaranteeon every one. You can read what previous customers have written here.
About our Sgian Dubhs
Handles
The handles are cut from local woods where available (the Oak from the family farm in Glen Urquhart carves very nicely) or local stag antlers, as well as traditional exotic woods such as Ebony, African Blackwood and Rosewood which are obtained from suppliers to musical instrument makers.
The wood is given an oiled finish and lightly waxed to give a traditional, natural look and feel.
Ferrules
The metal fittings at the top and base of the handle can be supplied in a variety of metals including Sterling Silver (Hallmarked in Edinburgh to our own registered hallmark: Loch-Ness-Silver), Titanium, Brass and Gold.
These can be supplied plain or patterned. (examples of Celtic designs are shown to the right)
Pommels
A variety of real Scottish stones, from around our country can be fitted at the top of the handle, set in a ferrule band. We can also supply imported Amber, Sapphire, Diamonds, etc.
Blades
These days most Sgian Dubh blades are made from Stainless Steel.
However, Damascus knife blades do look a lot nicer and consist of contrasting steels folded and forged together. I can offer blades in other materials, ie. High Carbon knife steels, Silver or Titanium. I also designed the Sgian Brew as a safe alternative to a traditional blade.
Engraving
For an extra personal touch, initials, dates, or special inscriptions or designs can be engraved onto the ferrules or blade using a diamond point engraver for sharp, clear detail. I can also emboss the leather sheath.
Sheaths
My Sgian Dubhs are supplied with high quality leather scabbards with a middle layer to protect the stitching and are available in Brown, Tan & Black, plain or embossed.
Presentation Boxes
My Sgian Dubhs are supplied in a smart card presentation box as standard which has a card with some information on your Sgian Dubh, including the serial number, materials used, a short background history, and its care and maintenance.
Sgian Dubhs & Sgian Brews currently available
Our home and workshop is located on Lochletter Farm, close to Loch Meiklie. The workshop is a converted garage that was built in the early 1990's. However many years ago the original Lochletter House once stood. It was built by Patrick Grant in 1761 but sadly was destroyed by fire in the 1920's. Below is a photo of the house before it was destroyed.
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You're very welcome to visit but please do contact us to make an appointment first.
The origin of 'Sgian Dubh'
The distant origins of the name Sgian Dubh (Gaelic for Black Knife) are thought to have emerged from this knife's dark appearance - the early handles were often made from dark bog wood and the blade would become dark through use and age.
A second theory is that it originated from the dark or sinister nature of an easily concealed weapon - which is why it has become traditional to keep the Sgian Dubh in open view in the top of the stocking whilst wearing Highland attire, usually the Kilt, to show that its wearer is amongst friends and has no ill intent.
The Sgian Dubh was not, is not and should not be considered a weapon !
The spelling of 'Sgian Dubh'
Sgian Dubh is often misspelled skean dhu, sgain dhubh, skean doo, skian doo, sgians dhus, etc.