Here in the United KIngdom, I have a genuine sgian dubh, but I have not worn it for several years. Long before 9/11 it was confiscated when I was flying from Aberdeen to London and I was told by the airport police in Aberdeen (not the baggage checkers) that it was classified as an illegal and an offensive weapon - that was after they had measured the blade and found it to be 1" too long!! It was eventually returned to me after the flight, with the warning that I should not wear it outside of my own home.
On my next visit to Scotland, I purchased a faux sgian dubh which I always wear now. Being a law-abiding soul, with no need or wish to carry a 'blade', I have no problem with wearing the faux one - only I know what it is!
Actually, strictly speaking that is not quite true. I have been asked several times, mostly at museums and art galleries, if it is a genuine sgian dubh and I have been obliged to show it before being admitted.
[B][I][U]No. of Kilts[/U][/I][/B][I]:[/I] 102.[I] [B]"[U][B]Title[/B]"[/U][/B][/I]: Lord Hamish Bicknell, Laird of Lochaber / [B][U][I]Life Member:[/I][/U][/B] The Scottish Tartans Authority / [B][U][I]Life Member:[/I][/U][/B] The Royal Scottish Country Dance Society / [U][I][B]Member:[/B][/I][/U] The Ardbeg Committee / [I][B][U]My NEW Photo Album[/U]: [/B][/I][COLOR=purple]Sadly, and with great regret, it seems my extensive and comprehensive album may now have been lost forever![/COLOR]/
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