Despite the bad reviews, I bought this belt as a replacement that I badly needed for an honor guard at a funeral. Although it was a bit stiff due to the flat packaging, it softened up pretty well and quickly. I used a brass buckle from my own department but the chrome is very good and is the same as more expensive belts. It takes me about half an hour before my skin feels less tight, but I saved $200. Because of the need to buy another. Looks great.