Any experience with...

[Scottish Chi]

My first post of what will more than likely be many. I am curious about the SWK Heavyweight Kilt new for 2006. A few months ago I bought my first kilt (Ferguson medium weight 6 yards but a wool mixed fiber) for about $280. It was fine at first (just a little lifting at the bottom apron corners) and I was pleased until I was invited to a Robert Burns dinner. Now I was seeing these beautiful, heavyweight, 8+ yard, kilts and got the itch for one. It will take some time to justify the expense as well as determining a good choice of kilt maker. I also need to become more educated regarding what to ask when buying online. I will need help in all those things. (Buyers remorse is not a good thing!)
In the meantime I saw the "SWK Heavyweight Kilt new for 2006". Even though I should be saving for a traditional 8 yard 16 oz "once in a lifetime" purchase, would it be a good idea to look into the SWK Heavyweight? My concern is I have read reviews about the less expensive SWK kilts but not their most expensive. Does any one have any experience with the Heavyweight? After reading the description the price seems VERY reasonable almost too good to be true.

Cheers!

[Mattg]

I have a Standard, and I love it. But no clue on the Heavyweight. Sorry, I really really really wish I had one to tell you about

[Riverkilt]

No clue on SWK since they don't offer my kilt length. That would be an important consideration - does the length they offer actually fit your body.

If it helps with figuring out kiltmakers my gallery has pictures of four hand sewn kilts made up for me by Kathy Lare of Kathy's Kilts in Albuquerque and one from the Celtic Croft.

I think Kathy is sewing up at least one of the X Marks the Scot tartan kilts.

Ron

[Blu (Ontario)]

..... Even though I should be saving for a traditional 8 yard 16 oz "once in a lifetime" purchase, would it be a good idea to look into the SWK Heavyweight?....

NO!

Cheapie kilts certainly have their place... I own a couple. However, the $$ spent on a couple of those could have you wearing a quality kilt others will envy. Save your money and get the kilt of your dreams first. There will be ample opportunity to expand your choices later.

[KiltedCodeWarrior]

First, Welcome! Where in FL are you located?

I have to disagree with Blu, especially if you are not sure if/how much you will wear the kilt, or are concerned about wearing a $400-500 investment for anything other than special occasions. You have not said how often you plan on wearing one, or your intended events. I have the 2005 SWK in Shadow Tartan and really like it. The only drawback to the 2005 is that it is an acrylic fabric that has a tendency to "pill" and requires shaving eveyr so often as a result. However, for the price, it is great. And I understand that the 2006 are Australian Merino wool, or wool blend. Should take care of that problem. While I am still waiting to get my first tank (X-Marks tartan, hurry up!), I am pleased with my SWK's. The only other drawback to the acrylic (2005) is that they tend to hold in the heat and can get quite warm when the weather is nice.

[pdcorlis]

Hi Chi!

Welcome to the forum - you may want to use the search feature on this forum and look for "2006 Stillwater Heavyweight" - I'm sure you'll fiind several threads that may help you make an informed decision.

Good Luck and again, Welcome to the Forum!

[Southern Breeze]

Ditto KCWs post. They're an excellant starter kilt. I have several 2005s and like them. One thing, they only come in one length.

[mddock58]

I have a 2006 Black Watch Standard, and I like it. I am looking to buy a Black Heavyweight in the future. From what I can see, Jerry puts out a GREAT product for the price.

Yes, they only come in one length, and that is a problem for some.

There are also many kilts being sold out there that are far worse, but may look to be a better product!

If you order a Stillwater, remember to try it on before removing the basting stitches, because you can always return it if it does not suit you. He will not take a return on the kilts with the basting removed.

[bjcustard]

I got the 2006 Heavyweight in the Saffron last week.

While I would not match the quality with one of my tanks, I still feel it was well worth the $145.

Is it the equivalent of my $500+ tanks? No.

But I didn't have to spend $500, either... I spent a third of it.

[Blu (Ontario)]

... I have to disagree with Blu, especially if you are not sure if/how much you will wear the kilt, or are concerned about wearing a $400-500 investment for anything other than special occasions....

Actually, I wear my first $600.00 16oz heayweight everywhere including hiking trails. It has stood up extremely well. Mind you, I don't roll in the dirt or fix the car in it. The fact is, there is NO substitute for a good quality traditional kilt. It is not my intent to sound arrogant... I merely state the facts as I know them. And the fact is, there is a noticeable difference in the way they look and fit and there is a reason why they cost what they do. There are a few on the board that understand what I'm talking about. My point is... it's a choice. I stand behind my other post.

blu