The buckle badge, approved in 1991, returning the badge design components to the badge used from 1891 to 1939, was documented as Official by DND in 2002.

The re-approved badge contained a Scottish buckle as did the original. DND, in the mid 1930s, declared that the buckle was a garter of the Order of the Garter. For several years the regiment ignored DND’s demands that the regiment change its badge and eliminate the buckle and substitute five diamond shapes on the annulus or ring. Finally, in 1939 when the regiment requested a name change to add “of Canada” to 48th Highlanders, DND said they would agree only if the badge were changed. The regiment agreed and the badge was worn during the Second World War and after. However, in the late 1980s the regiment took the badge to The Lord Lyon in England who declared that the buckle was a Scottish buckle and the badge was recast. The buckle was finally approved in 1991 in time for the 100th anniversary of the Regiment and a re-badging parade was held in 1992.

The wreath* upon which the falcon “couped” (in heraldry) rests has six twists of red and white (Canada’s national colours).
When worn on the uniform the badge has a piece of red felt placed behind it, showing through in the centre of the annulus. On headdress a rectangular piece of Davidson tartan, with all four edges frayed, is placed behind the badge, protruding on all sides.