Fancy sporran chain

**Professor Mac X** · 11th January 13, 04:04 PM

Hello--first time user here.
Thinking about upgrading from my plain dress sporran chain to one of the "fancy" versions. On several sites I've seen the "Celtic" and "Mixed" (both with Celtic knot-work designs) as well as a "Thistle" design. Problem is, I see some wildly divergent prices for seemingly the same chains, from $29 at "Piper's Dojo" to $80-plus to other sites and on Ebay. (BTW, I'm not looking for silver or silver-plate, just a nice-looking and well-constructed chain that won't break the bank.) Anyone had experience purchasing such an item, or can lend any other related advice? Thanks.

**davidlpope** · 11th January 13, 04:17 PM

I think I'd forgo these fancy chains and purchase a simple "long-link" sporran chain for your dress sporran. Much nicer, IMHO.

**azwildcat96** · 11th January 13, 04:17 PM

I can't comment on those that you are talking about, but I can put you in touch with someone that made mine.

Here is a link to another thread with a picture. I'd be more than happy to send you other pictures of the same chain too.

This gent is a very good chain maille artisan, and I believe he charges a reasonalbe price, but you'll have to discuss details with him directly.

Just send me a PM if interested.

**brewerpaul** · 11th January 13, 04:59 PM

Beside the price you might want to consider if they will catch your kilt and pull threads. Personally I use a thin belt for most of my sporrans unless I plan on going dress then Ill consider a chain. The less to catch and pull the better...

**creagdhubh** · 11th January 13, 05:36 PM

Originally Posted by davidlpope

I think I'd forgo these fancy chains and purchase a simple "long-link" sporran chain for your dress sporran. Much nicer, IMHO.

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**MacMillan of Rathdown** · 11th January 13, 10:51 PM

Originally Posted by davidlpope

I think I'd forgo these fancy chains and purchase a simple "long-link" sporran chain for your dress sporran. Much nicer, IMHO.

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And while you are at it, buy a silver one; it will never be cheaper.

**Downunder Kilt** · 12th January 13, 12:30 AM

I think the "long links" that the others are referring to, are known as trombone links

**OC Richard** · 12th January 13, 06:45 AM

Yes those strangely ornate bling sporran chains are the latest Pipe Band fad to be foisted upon the unsuspecting kiltwearing world.

One of the "big boys" Grade One Pipe Bands went out and got those things, and of course all the other bands started following suit.

Not to say that they didn't exist in the old days... they did, but were very rare expensive silver things, not the mass-produced chromeplated things they have now.

I'll stick with my old-school long-link chain strap with my band sporran, and a plain leather belt with my goathair sporran.

Ian Grant offers quite a few designs of those fancy chains

http://www.iangrantofedinburgh.com/i...Path=106_70_94

**creagdhubh** · 12th January 13, 09:22 AM

Ian Grant would be my first choice. I have a long-linked chain strap made of sterling silver from Ian Grant that works quite well for Highland evening attire. I highly recommend his work if that is an avenue you choose to investigate.

Cheers,