"Jacobite" garb

[hylander]

From Rule #11:

(We define 'weapon' as anything that is used to inflict damage or harm to living beings. Weapons shown as components of traditional or historic kilt attire, or shown as components of a prescribed uniform, may be exempt as long as the discussion does not become about the weapon itself or its use.)

I think the rule is full of subjectivity here. The dirk and sgain, although being a potentially dangerous, I think can be accepted by many to be the "component of highland kilt attire" and so any discussion on this forum fo these could be seen as acceptable since it meets that requirement, even if the kilt is never mentioned. Most oftens post concerning dirks and sgians center on how, when and where they could or should be worn with the kilt. Even in the DIY section, where oftent the kilt is never mentioned specifically when discussing the making of sharp pointy things, I think the implication is that the intent on the dirk or sgain being made is intended, at some point, to be worn with a kilt. If I show up at a Burn's party dressed in "modern" kilt attire, sgian stuck in my sock, many in attendance will think "he's got the whole kit down to that sock knife thingy". If I show up to the same function, dressed the same, with a 17th century longarm I think total confusion would set in. My point being, "Weapons shown as components of traditional or historic kilt attire, or shown as components of a prescribed uniform" is the line.

But, you say, "Historical Kilt attire", most certainly could include the the 17th century firearm, expecially under the Historical Kilt category, especially in a thead entitled "Jacobit Garb", and I would agree with you wholeheartedly. For another example I remember a thread that was shut down on black powder hunting because is quickly devolved into a gun discussion devoid of any releavance to the kilt. That instance, I think, is a clearer example of what #11 is meant to address.

It is a fine subjective line, and I am glad I don't have to make the call. I thoroughly enjoyed the Jacobite Garb thread, it has loads of good info for those interested in historical kilt attire. Brian is a fount of knowledge, although I thought his parting remarks were unfortunate. Guns and gun regulation are a hot button topics more than ever here in the US and so I can understand the mods wanting to nip a potential issue in the bud. I think the current atmosphere may have also added to Brian's frustrations.

Maybe there could be a revision of #11 seperating firearms and sharp pointy things, addressing each more specifically. Or maybe the mods are perfectly happy with the rule as it stands and we the members just continue to abide by that.