Quoted: I would challenge Mr. Ashiblie to make production in the CONUS work and make his products even more appealing to those that use them. It might cut into profit margin, but it does make the product more appealing and supports workers in this country, instead of overseas.
v/r, JSR
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Hi JSR,
First of, please call me Helmie or Helm. No need for formalities among friends. Next, I understand what you're saying and I do concur with your thoughts. It is a misconception among many that we only produce our products overseas. Most are not aware that we a small production studio locally. In fact, for US govt purchases, everything offered is produced in CONUS. That said, it is because they are willing to pay a higher price and in the case of the TCC, it starts at $275.
That makes our TCC one of the most expensive cases on the market. During an initial test, we found out that not many are willing and able to pay for such a case. Rather than shelf the design, which was the brainchild of many folks online, we agreed on a foreign made one as long as quality was not compromised.
But one of the most important factors that no one seems to understand is production availability. There is a limited number of production facilities in CONUS and most are almost running at capacity. Not every brand has their own production and you'll be surprised to find out how many of these brands share the same production facility. And this is what happens next.....i-SHOT / S.E.R.T System, being a small company, comes a knocking on the doors of the factory. They take a look at our stuff and ask how many units we want to produce. When they find out that our requirements are not as high as some of the major brands, they tell us to take a number and stand in line. What comes next is a long waiting game.
Some don't mind having their customers wait but unfortunately, not us. So a very small studio is a start for us and who knows where it might lead. We are showcasing a few stuff at SHOT that are of our own handiwork (incl a new design by MM himself) and I can only hope that the response will be positive.
Anyway, that's a small bit of what goes on and I hope it provides you with a little inside on the trade
Take care and what your six, brother.
Respectfully,
Helmie Ashiblie (V.P./Founder)
i-SHOT Shooting Sports
S.E.R.T System