Sgian Dubhs by Rab Gordon
Rab first started making Sgian Dubhs over 20 years ago when he couldn't find one that he would personally like to own and wear with his kilt, ie. not a plastic import, while still at a price that was reasonably affordable.
Primarily he was looking for a traditional and authentic style Sgian Dubh with a carved wood handle that was traditionally decorative without being over the top. Most important it had to be functional and look natural when worn with the kilt. Rab then set out to make the best quality Sgian Dubhs and Sgian Brews that he could and he continues to improve these, sourcing better materials and expanding his skills and methods.
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All Rab's Sgian Dubhs are individually made and most are made as special commissions, however we are aware some folk may need a Sgian Dubh sooner, so we try to keep a few available to buy on our ​ online web-shop "Loch Ness Origins".
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Or if you'd like one specially made for you and can wait,
then please contact us about commissioning a custom Sgian Dubh.
There are a few things to consider when thinking about a Sgian Dubh, the above links provide further information on the main aspects.
We are more than happy to guide you and answer any questions you may have.
Unique & Collectable
Each Sgian Dubh has its own unique character and identity, so we assign an individual serial number starting 'SG'. This number is written in the presentation box and can also be engraved upon the blade on request. Whether as a gift or for yourself, there are a large number of customisation options. Many of our Sgian Dubhs are commissioned as heirlooms to be passed on to the next generation.
Craftmanship
While our work can't be said to be completely handmade from start to finish Rab has invested a considerable amount of craftmanship in what he creates. He considers his work to be more art than production but where appropriate he makes full creative use of modern technology to extend and supplement traditional craft skills. Over a number of years he has developed his own specialized methods, techniques and equipment; by doing so he feels he is able to offer you exceptional quality and custom features while at a price level that is still affordable.
Care and Maintenance
It is always best for long term storage to remove the sheath to allow air to circulate around the blade. Keep clean and dry and apply a very thin film of oil occasionally to the blade. Rab uses Ballistol oil and Camellia oil which is more commonly used on Japanese swords and is food safe. Likewise on the handle but use very sparingly
Money Back Guarantee
We hope you'll be pleasantly surprised at how well our Sgian Dubhs compare with the mass produced plastic imitations most often seen or those very rare, expensive and totally hand made Sgian. However, we confidently offer a money back guarantee on every one.
You can see examples of some of our previous commissions and also read our customers' comments by visiting our "What's New at Rainnea" blog.
Presentation Box
Our Sgian Dubhs are supplied in a smart black presentation box which has the details written in the lid, including its serial number, summary of materials used, a short background history, and a brief guide to care and maintenance.
The origin of 'Sgian Dubh'
The distant origins of the name Sgian Dubh (Gaelic for Black Knife) are thought to have emerged from this knife's dark appearance - the early handles were often made from dark bog wood and the blade would become dark through use and age.
A second theory is that it originated from the dark or sinister nature of an easily concealed weapon - which is why it has become traditional to keep the Sgian Dubh in open view in the top of the stocking whilst wearing Highland attire, usually the Kilt, to show that its wearer is amongst friends and has no ill intent.
The Sgian Dubh was not, is not and should not be considered a weapon !
The spelling 'Sgian Dubh'
Sgian Dubh is often misspelled! Here are a few variations that we have come across over the years:
sgian dhu, skean dhu, sgain dhubh, skean doo, skeean doo, skian doo, sgians dhus, ski and doo.
How to pronounce 'Sgian Dubh'
Scottish Gaelic has many dialects so pronunciation may vary.
Below is a rough description of the pronunciation:
'Sg' in Scots Gaelic has a pronunciation similar to 'sk' in English.
'i' in Scots gaelic sounds like 'ski' in English.
'an' in Gaelic is similar to 'an' in English.
'D' is pronounced as in the d in the english work 'dark'.
'u' in Gaelic is pronounced as 'oo' in English.
The 'bh' in 'dubh' is silent.
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Therefore 'Sgian Dubh' sounds like 'Skee-an Doo'.
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