Like others I too have both SWK and FC kilts. I like them both. It seems to me that they are about the same weight, excluding the SWK Heavyweight, which I believe is a bit heavier, the big difference is the "hand" of the fabric. SWK's is a much softer fabric, FC's is a bit stiffer.

Depending on what I'm doing I like the different feels for different things. When I'm lounging the SWK Thrifty is wonderful. The FC's have a more formal feel to me (please bear in mind I'm no expert by a long, long stretch, just my opinion), probably due to the stiffer fabric.

As to stock vs non-stock. SWK is hard to beat, Jerry is great to do business with, FC has had good and bad reviews. My experiences have been good, but custom sizes require patience (not something always in great supply). FC as made a lot of progress as they are going through their growing pains.

I personally plan additional purchases from both.

Best of Luck, and enjoy whatever kilts you can get.

Cheers,

Marshal Moroni