A couple of weeks ago, David and Sten Rune kindly invited me to 'test drive' their modified Sporran. It is a slightly different version of their splendid original model but has had a few minor alterations made to it following comments from some of the initial investors in this unique kilt accessory.

Since I was about to set off for a few days in Edinburgh, I thought THAT was the place to give it a run for its money.


On Princes Street, near The Scott Monument

To all intents and purposes the new sporran looks much as the original did. The cutting out of the leather and the stitching are of the same high quality - although there is actually an improvement in the finishing of the stitching on the one I have, if that is possible! The genuine 'sliced' antler material is still there for the decorative fittings, the quality of the leather is still absolutely first class, and there is still room inside for everything but the kitchen sink!

There are two modifications which I believe are improvements to be applauded: firstly, the flap or lid of the sporran now folds back over the top and down inside the bag to form the stiff backing section, rather than running over the top and down the outside of the bag. This seems to help in keeping a more slender profile to the sporran. Secondly, and I think most importantly - especially when the sporran is fully laden, the stiff leather backing (now inside the bag) is circular and twice the width of the original backing. This gives much greater support to the bag and its contents, and helps to present a less intimidating full-frontal aspect to those one meets!

This is as capacious a day sporran as you'll find anywhere, in my opinion. The novel drawstring closure beneath the flap is effective and secure, whilst the leather of the bag remains among the softest I have yet encountered in a sporran ...... and I have met a few!

It really was barely possible to improve on the original "Freelander" Sporran, but those boys in Norway have done it again so, order with confidence - you'll not be disappointed.

A final word: Whilst in Edinburgh, I was 'investigating' the numerous Highland Dress suppliers (as you do) and, whilst in Hector Russell on Princes Street, the four sales staff were totally besotted with the black Freelander Sporran I was wearing. They were intrigued with the design and were more than impressed when I told them of its origins. These people sell sporrans every day and know good workmanship when they see it so, well done David and Sten Rune! Another feather in your cap!

The "Freelander" Sporran browsing in Waterstones' Bookshop