> What are chip brushes? Are they those inexpensive pig-bristle brushes?

> Do they lose bristles badly or are they fairly tight?

Maybe "chip" is European for "cheap".Cheap is what they are ,in all senses of the word.They will lose some bristles at first ,and should be tested for loose bristles,and can be cleaned for re-use ,if using paint.With epoxy,they can be re-used,but may become stiff or soggy,or lose their ability to lay down a smooth coat .They can sell for $1 for a 1 1/2 inch in stores,so that sounds like a good deal.They are pig, or some kind of critter, bristles.