Officer's dirk to the Highland Borderers Light Infantry. Double etched tapering blade of 28 cm. Etched along one side with with scrolling foliage, regimental title and number 'HIGHLAND BORDERERS 90 LIGHT INFANTRY', and makers name J. MORTIMER & CO/EDINBURGH. Hilt with silver mounts cast and chased with further thistles, hardwood grip carved with basket-weave pattern heightened with silver pins, and imitation cairngorm set in the pommel. Ebonised baluster grip carved with basket weave set with (silver ?) studs. Original black leather scabbard with silver mounts decorated in low relief, the top mount locket including an oak-leaf wreath framing the regimental number '90'. Matching knife and fork ensuite. Blade: 28cm. Condition: Mild pitting to blade in parts. Two broken studs on hilt (unnoticeable).
Ref 2. Highland Borderers Light Infantry Militia
1861 - 1881
The Highland Borderers Light Infantry started life as the 90th Regiment of British Militia. In recognition of the number of members who enlisted in the regular army, it then received the distinctive Highland Borderers name. On the 1st of July, 1881, the Cardwell reforms came into effect. This was a major reorganisation of the British army. For the first time, regular regiments of the line were really tied to a particular depot. For example the 91st Regiment - the Argyllshire Regiment - amalgamated with the 93rd Regiment - the Sutherland Highlanders - to become the First (91st) Battalion and Second (93rd) Battalions of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders (Princess Louise's) with Stirling Castle as their permanent depot.
On Friday 1st July 1881, the Highland Borderers became the 3rd Battalion of the Argyll and Sutherland Regiment. At the outbreak of WWI, the battalion became the 3rd (Highland Borders Light Infantry) (Special Reserve) Btn.