Ten chains in need of a clip? (7)
I believe the answer is:
furlong
This clue could be a double definition.
'ten chains in' is the first definition.
The definition and answer can be both quantities as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?
'of a clip?' is the second definition.
The definition suggests a singular noun which matches the answer.
'need' acts as a link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for furlong that I've seen before include "One eighth of a mile" , "A few chains" , "1/8th of a mile" , "Measure of length" , "220 yards" .)