Sgian Dubhs in Church: Opinions, please

**beloitpiper** · 23rd December 06, 11:22 AM

I wear my sgian to chruch. To me, it is not a weapon but a display of friendship and tradition. But then again, I go to a Presbyterian chruch and they love anything that has to do with the kilt.

**McClef** · 23rd December 06, 11:43 AM

I wore mine at a Carol Service last Sunday, it was part of the oufit and nobody minded.

**Uncle Ricky** · 23rd December 06, 12:05 PM

This is just my opinion, but since you asked...

If you are "In Costume" then it seems to me that the knife, the flashes, and the Prince Charley jacket are all part of your schtick. But if you are wearing the kilt because you like it as a comfortable garment, then none of that stuff matters.

Cheers,
Rick

**Cawdorian** · 23rd December 06, 12:28 PM

I always wear my Sgian Dubh to the Kirk'n services I attend, Everyone else in highland dress wears them. I am a Presbyterian too, everyone seems to understand that it's part of highland dress.

I suppose it is no different than carrying a pocket knife in your pocket ar a small knife on a keychain into church with you.

**sorcererdale** · 23rd December 06, 01:07 PM

I always have wondered about carrying a Sgian Dubh. I don't like weapons of any kind and can't see a point in having one in the kilt hose. Most people, at least around here, wouldn't even know I was supposed to. I just figure if one is carrying a weapon, then there are more chances of having to use it. That is just my opinion. So I don't have one, and probably never will.

If you feel it is important to complete your outfit, then wear it, but it isn't really necessary.

DALE.

**Nick** · 23rd December 06, 02:55 PM

I have, but I prefer to not wear my sgian because I'm afraid of damaging it. I'll probably wear one more often when I make a more utilitarian one.

**GatorUK** · 23rd December 06, 03:13 PM

Wearing Highland dress, wearing the sgian in the hose is a sign you are there peacefully. If the sgian is not seen in your hose top one would have to wonder where it is secreted on your person. Up the sleeve? In the jacket? By wearing it in your hose you are saying you trust and respect the company you are with. So, as a sign of peace and friendship you should definitly wear it and explain thus to any who would question it. Preferably over a nice single malt.

**beloitpiper** · 24th December 06, 09:56 AM

Originally Posted by Uncle Ricky

This is just my opinion, but since you asked...

If you are "In Costume" then it seems to me that the knife, the flashes, and the Prince Charley jacket are all part of your schtick. But if you are wearing the kilt because you like it as a comfortable garment, then none of that stuff matters.

Cheers,
Rick

To me, wearing the sgian dubh, flashes, and jacket are not "in costume". That is like saying a business suit is a costume. I do wear my kilt casually (boots, rugby shirt, etc.) but when I wear all my accessories and formalities, I still consider it acceptable clothing.

Again, I am pro-sgian in any establishment that will allow it.

**Andrew Breecher** · 24th December 06, 10:04 AM

I don't view a sgian dubh as a weapon. It's a knife, certainly, but small enough that it's a tool. I would never draw it in anger. Of course others may not view it in the same way. I don't see how it would be a problem to wear it in a church.

Andrew.

**Uncle Ricky** · 24th December 06, 10:32 AM

Originally Posted by beloitpiper

To me, wearing the sgian dubh, flashes, and jacket are not "in costume". That is like saying a business suit is a costume. I do wear my kilt casually (boots, rugby shirt, etc.) but when I wear all my accessories and formalities, I still consider it acceptable clothing.

Again, I am pro-sgian in any establishment that will allow it.

To quote Alice Cooper (I think)
"Don't kid yourself - we're ALL wearing costumes"
To quote Crocodile Dundee - "You call that a knife!"

Cheers,
Rick