The word ‘Dirk’ is a Scottish word for long dagger.  And what an impressive dagger it is.  The Dirk was primiarly located and used not just from the warrior class but all highlanders located in present day Scotland.  The blade was long somewhere between 8-21 inches in length.  In some instances, swords were cut down to regain a second life as a ‘dirk’ and mounted to a dagger hilt. 

The dirk was a backup to the broadsword, and was used in the left hand while the right hand wielded the main weapon or broadsword.  The scabbard was locate on the arm.  Their were many different type and variations of the dirk and were all distinguished by the shape or decoration of the hilt.  The blade never varied other than lthe length and whether it was a double or singled-sided weapon.

The dir held a very prominent role in Scottish higland society not only as an effective weapon but a cultural centerpiece.  The highlanders had such high regard for their dirks that they swore oaths on them.  The British government at one period in history was aware of this and to eliminate the constant uprisings, made the highlanders swear on their dirks.  According to history they swore not to “possess any gun, sword, or pistol, or to use tartan. . .and if I do so may I be cursed in my undertakins, family and property.  May I be killed in battle as a coward, and like without burial in a strange land, far from the graves of my forefathers, and kindred; may all this come across me if I break my oath.”

Today the dirk is a beautiful piece, with a long slender blade, and beautifully crafted hilts.  These prized works of art were once decorations fro naval uniforms well into the 20^th century.  The dirk conveys the fighting spirit of the Scottish nation as well as their ability to balance the practical and the beautiful.. A dirk blade is bright and beautiful and is truly a unique masterpiece of weaponry for any collector or novice.  These exquisite blades will be valued heirlooms that will leave behind a deep and meaningful history.