Hamish,

This is something I have noticed as well. Back when I first got into this business, about 8 years ago, I could order from my suppliers either chain or leather straps, and those in either black or brown leather.

Fast forward to about 2 or 3 years ago, and I only had one source left that was supplying me with all-leather sporran belts, and only then unreliably.

Now none of my suppliers offers them, and I continue to have customers asking for them. I wear one, which I made for myself about ten or twelve years ago from a narrow belt blank I bought at a leather craft store, so that is what I have been recommending people do.

I have been getting onto Buzz Kidder about making leather belts to wear with his sporrans. Maybe if enough of his clients bug him about it he will start to offer these. I absolutely love his sporrans, but I agree with you about the chains he includes. All I tell my customers are that they are free with the sporran and just meant to last you until you can secure another belt.

Aye,
Matt