Sgian Dubh with damask blade and scabbard

Sgian Dubh with scabbard

The name comes from the Gaelic sgian dubh meaning "black knife", where "black" may refer to the usual colour of the handle of the knife. It is also suggested that "black" means secret, or hidden, as in the word blackmail. This is based on the stories and theories surrounding the knife's origin and the meaning of "Dubh" in Gaelic, in particular those associated with the Highland custom of depositing weapons at the entrance to a house prior to entering as a guest. Concealed in the hose or boot, the sgian dubh would offer an element of defence or of surprise if employed in attack.

• total length: approx. 17cm
• blade legth: approx. 8cm
• max. width: approx. 2.5cm
• weight: approx. 200 g
• Only one side of the blade is sharpened.