Colin,

I've done business with Rudi in the past (he made a sporran for me) but I do not care for his belts (not my taste). As for Bear, I have no experience with him or his business nor am I interested (again, just not my taste).

Davedove,

As for the color of the fur, yes, I'm looking for black. But, regardless of the Xmarks discount, I don't think I'm quite convinced it's wise for me to buy anything from Kiltstore because of all the bad things I've read here about surprise customs fees, etc. I've purchased a lot of goods overseas but I've yet to encounter having to pay what others here have said they've paid.

Just an update: I purchased a casual belt today, so that bit's accomplished. To be more clear about the 'formal belt' I'm looking for, I don't want anything embossed or anything with a a huge buckle (I may be a bit of a cowboy in spirit but I'm not one by trade). Something simple with a nice metal buckle will do but it seems that's getting harder and harder to find.