Quality Sporrans for less money

[Panache]

I have thought of commenting about this thread a number of times but have refrained. Today I decided I would share my opinion because Richard's opening to the thread bothers me.

"I often mention that I'm dismayed when people with little money to spend on their Highland Dress settle for low-quality Pakistani sporrans, when for the same price sporrans made in Scotland, or by L&M in Canada, of the highest quality, can be had for the same price. "



Quality is quality, regardless of where a thing is from or who made it.


Being made in Pakistan, the USA, Norway, Canada, or Scotland doesn't make a sporran (or any item) inherently of better quality or lesser quality.

A friend of mine in the Red Thistle Dancers and I bought similar embossed black leather day sporrans almost 10 years ago. Here's mine



(I don't have my friend's permission so I'm not going to share his photo, but I hope you know the type of sporran I'm talking about)

Both sporrans have got a lot of use and both have worn well over the years. They have held up and look good. My friend's was made in Scotland and cost over $100 and mine was made in Pakistan and cost me $35. They are both well made and I'm sure both will be in use in our performances for years to come.

I'm a big fan of thrift stores and bargains, so I support and applaud Richard in his ability to spot out the good stuff at great prices.

However, I don't like the idea of the products of a particular place or people disparaged, I'm not comfortable with this. I bought my sporran from Stillwater kilts because I trust the seller. That trust was more important than where the sporran came from or who made it and that trust was rewarded.

A name (known) brand with a good reputation is certainly a good indicator of quality. But a seller with a good reputation can be equally important.

As with all purchases "Buyer Beware", but one should be careful not to pass up good product because of a prejudice towards a place or people.

Just my two cents

Cheers

Jamie