World-Class Bagpipes, Built to Last
Dunbar Bagpipes has been handcrafting premium Highland bagpipes in St. Catharines, Ontario, since 1967. Founded by Jack Dunbar — a former turner at the legendary Peter Henderson firm in Glasgow — we are proud to be North America’s oldest pipemaker and the inventors of the world’s first Polypenco pipes.
For more than half a century, Dunbar has proven that building world-class instruments is not the sole domain of Scotland. Every set is hand-turned with artisanal care, carrying forward Jack’s Henderson lineage while establishing a distinct Dunbar signature: a rich, steady, and enduring tone trusted by solo champions and leading pipe bands worldwide.
Our workshop produces a full range of bespoke African Blackwood and Polypenco instruments, award-winning chanters, and precision-crafted accessories. Blackwood models feature our innovative internal lining system that guards against moisture and preserves tone for decades. Whether you are a rising competitor or part of a top-tier band, Dunbar Bagpipes are built to perform, built to last.
Restoration, Repair & Refurbishment
At Dunbar, restoration is not just a service — it is a craft. With more than six decades of experience and the finest tooling in the trade, our shop brings vintage, heirloom, and well-worn instruments back to life with uncompromising care.
Led by Rick Pettigrew — recognized worldwide as one of the foremost bagpipe restoration experts — our team has restored more than 500 historic sets for discerning pipers, including those entrusted to us by piping legend Jim McGillivray. If Jim trusts us with his pipes, you can too.
From invisible whipping and pin-to-joint repairs to full refinishing, re-beading, and exact-match replacement parts, every project is treated like a museum piece. We work with African Blackwood, cocuswood, ebony, and Polypenco, applying material-specific methods to ensure both structural integrity and tonal excellence.
Why Pipers Choose Dunbar
- World-Class Reputation – Trusted by solo champions, collectors, and professional pipers around the globe.
- Bespoke Craftsmanship – Every instrument and restoration is hand-turned, hand-finished, and treated as one of a kind.
- Materials Expertise – Deep knowledge of wood and synthetic materials, reinforced with custom-designed tools.
- Legacy Work, Modern Standards – Pipes restored not with shortcuts, but with respect for history and performance.
Our Promise
Whether you are commissioning a new set or entrusting us with an heirloom, Dunbar offers the same commitment: artisanal craftsmanship, uncompromising precision, and instruments built for generations.
Have questions? We’re here to help.