Swords and such would always be loosened before battle to prevent sticking in the scabbard. Same for a Dirk. A Sgian wouldnt be in the sock for long while doing a mad charge. They were a sassanach invention like the fancey Dirk hilts and the wee kilt. As a utility blade they work fine, and it only takes 1/2 an inch of steel to cut a throat. IMHO