I am very torn between which method to utilize. There is a assumed quality and strength that goes with having a metal buckle holding the belt but as you say is it really a benefit to add that much labor and expense to the belt there by raising the overall cost of the belt.

With velcro, many will assume the product is cheap or of poor quality even though velcro is truly the more logical method to balance cost and structural need. I'm trying to explore any other option I can devise before making the choice on velcro but I've a hunch that is what I'll end up doing.

I also did a bit of searching about Clanart who made your buckle and they have some excellent products. I really like their Hounds set of Cantles, buckle and tassel bells. It would look awesome with a belt design I am waiting to release that has a very similar hounds embossing in the leather

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