Sgian Dubh Knives have assorted histories. They seem to have originated by the Scots in the 16th through 18th centuries. The name translates to Knife Black, or as it is referred to as the Black Knife. There are different stories as to the origin, however, the early Sgian Dubhs were made with a locally available hard wood. The wood that was best suited for knife handles that had to be durable was Bog Oak. Bog oak was likely Swamp Oak that was buried 15 ft or so below the ground. This would have likely happened during a drastic natural event such as a huge flood, or by advancing glaciers.  The trees would have had  to be buried very quickly . Lack of oxygen prevented the natural decay of the wood. The wood turned black over thousands of years as it was saturated with groundwater. Soluble iron in the  water reacted with the natural tannins present in the  in the oak causing them to turn black.

    My Sgian Dubhs will all be made with this ancient Bog Oak from the old world. Different steels will be utilized depending on the desired outcome.  These knives are now traditionally worn tucked into the right sock of someone dressed in traditional Scottish Kilt wear.

I recently connected with my Scottish heritage and have been influenced to make traditional old style Sqian Dubhs as a result. I hope you enjoy them! These are not the cheap reproduction knives mostly found on the market today. These are hand made in the traditional manner for those who really care.