Quote Originally Posted by MacMillan of Rathdown View Post
The reality is that the sgian dubh was originally used as a small skinning knife by deer stalkers, and was stuffed into the top of their stocking so they didn't have to grope around on the ground looking for it while gutting or skinning deer.
I'm far from an expert on Gaelic dress...however this makes the most sense to me. In the field, a short knife is the most common reached-for tool that you can carry on your body. Normally, one would carry such a tool on your belt, but considering the construction and wear of a great kilt, I could see the fabric getting in the way when crouched or contorted. Whereas the lower leg is easily accessible whenever you are working on the ground.

As far as positioning inside/outside, using the same rationale, I'd say worn on the outside shows normal dress. Inside the leg, and you might have a confused Scot on your hands. The only time I would take the position of the knife to mean an impending fight, is when it is in the hand.