Doublets

[Stoneyburnpiper]

Hello,
After countless hours of searching for a clear cut answer on the age old doublet chase I figured I would rehash a new thread with hopefully a new direction on on the question.

I'm like many of you that don't have a boatload of extra money laying about to put into my expanding collection of Highland Attire. So I search for a said deal if you will on purchasing a doublet. And I have come up with 2 different categories 1.Genuine or MoD issued jackets which tend to be on the top end of price but I'm sure on quality as well. & 2. Pakastani companies that make replica doublets with either inferior materials or craftsmanship making them more affordable and eye catching.

Seeing as I just purchased a new kilt (my 3rd) from a very reputable kilt maker and spent a nice penny for it I'm looking or trying to save my behind from my wife and not spend $500 on a doublet and another $300-500 on a pipers plaid.

So my question is this. Those of you that have purchased from Pakastani or India companies that manufacture Highland Wear. Which ones have been sound investments. Meaning wait time, customer service, quality for price, actually receiving the good?.

I have found we all seem to be in the same boat ordering from there as far as as being curious on a deal yet cautious as to not wanting to get scammed. I personally will probably only wear this doublet a few times a year so I am open to buy from one of these companies that people have had good experiences. I appreciate everyone's 2 cents

[ASinclair]

Hello, Stoneyburnpiper!



If you haven't already done so, you may want to introduce yourself on the Newbies forum. I don't have any experience with purchasing from Pakistan.

[Carlo]

You might want to check USA Kilts (Advertiser Top Left). They sell a Doublet for $350. It's possibly a better deal than a Pakistani... made Doublet.

[Macman]

You might have a look at glengarryhats.com out of Saskatchewan. I think they source products in Pakistan. I've only ever ordered headgear from them, but the quality was very good. Do not get them confused with glengarryhat.com, which is a different company, albeit selling similar merchandise.

[Stoneyburnpiper]

Thanks for the clarification Macman. I believe I found both sites but was confused as to why they looked different so I didn't pay much attention. The internet is a awesome tool to connect the world but I find it a bit unnerving that you can find 10 sites who all use the same product picture and similar price. It makes it tuff who to choose

[MacLowlife]

Thanks for the clarification Macman. I believe I found both sites but was confused as to why they looked different so I didn't pay much attention. The internet is a awesome tool to connect the world but I find it a bit unnerving that you can find 10 sites who all use the same product picture and similar price. It makes it tuff who to choose

Sorry, I haven't done any business with Pakistani companies, though I have come close. Maybe if you told us exactly what you are seeking ( and mentioned your size ) you might draw some alternative suggestions. For instance, I have an old MOD piper's tunic and I can assure you it is too heavy for indoor wear.

One quick word of advice- anything you can buy that is already made, even if it requires alteration, is often better than the thing you are ordering from scratch- at least when wait times and sketchy delivery track records come into play. If you see something for sale that actually exists, you are several steps ahead of the buyer whose item "will be made to your order" and delivered sometime in the future.

We like to talk about durability and quality, but so many items of mediocre construction will do for the few times a year we need them. Sure, high quality goods are a pleasure, as are ones that fit properly, but I have yet to see post that begins "I have only had my X for two years and it wore out on me..."

[Eric D Scott]

I ordered my doublet from Ian at Glengarry Hats (www.glengarryhats.com). It is manufactured in Pakistan, Ian does not hide that fact, but he maintains the standard that leaves his shop. He can ave your doublet made many different ways to fit your needs.

For example I had mine made black with silver piping, zipper, 18 buttons, without a liner (Southern Ontario summers are too hot for a lining), and a specific collar made for me. The doublet I received fit to a T and was excellently crafted.

if you are interested, speak with Ian, and let him know that I have referred you (I get nothing but the satisfaction that I've helped him and you) and I am sure he'll get you squared away.

Should you have any questions, feel free to ask me!

[Stoneyburnpiper]

Eric just out of curiosity how long did it take to receive your doublet from glengarryhats? I thought I came across a post where someone was saying it took much longer than what he has posted on his site. I'm about to order a navy glen and some diced hose tops from there. He has a nice website

Also do you have any pics of your doublet?

[Eric D Scott]

If I am not mistaken it was 6 or 8 weeks delivered to my door here in Ontario which was shipped from Western Canada. I am very happy with his turn around time. I have pieced together my entire drum major's uniform from places world wide. My doublet was the most expensive part because I wear a band kilt, and I feel the price was well worth the peace of mind. I do have a horse hair sporran which I purchased on eBay from a Pakistan seller and I was also pleased with their work, but I would be diligent in doing so.

I will to see if I have photos readily available and MSG you back.

[Eric D Scott]

Due to the nature of my position (show pony with a loud voice as my Pipe Major likes to say) I have a lot of things that go over my doublet, but I do assure you it is there.