A TOTALLY unfair comparisson..and some advice

[Abax]

One last thing about the ccc, on the leather of my belt, the edges seem to be wearing and almost "fraying". Is there a special way to take care of the leather so it doesn't do that?

I think some minor fraying of the edges where a leather strap passes though a buckle is normal. But if your leather needs maintenance, try some Fiebing's neutral Tan Kote. Look for this product at local craft or hobby shop - it's very common. You can rub a thin coat of the product onto all sides of the strap (front, back and edges) with a rag. It will seal the leather and prevent the fuzzy surface you describe. Let the Tan Kote dry a day or two (depending on your realtive humidity), then seal that with a coat of neutral leather polish.

Don't get the Tan Kote on your kilt fabric. The product is casein-based (same base as white glue), so cleaning it off could be a real pain. I'd mask the surrounding area with some painter's tape or by pulling the strap through a slit in a plastic bag before applying the Tan Kote. The product dries to the touch in just a few minutes.

I'd avoid applying solutions for fabric to your leather straps (like Fray Check). I think they'd tend to make the leather too hard and brittle, plus it's likely to leave a white deposit where ever you apply it on a dark-colored material.

Abax