The definitive question for a buyer is "why is the price the price?" In aerospace, you always had to write up a unit price justification for government audit review. Sole source was a nightmare because you had to rely on what the vendor tells you.
Fortunately, when a contract exceeded a certain dollar threshold, the government mandated disclosure with which the vendor had to comply with by law.
In my private life, I had a big job on my Chevy pickup truck a little over a year ago. I keep my truck in great condition. The job was a tune-up and other stuff that was driven by mileage considerations.
I went to a GM dealer, (one of the biggest in NE), and he quoted $900.00. I went to the no frills, dirty garage, on the other side of town, and they quoted $300.00. I went to the cheaper place becuase I asked around about their service. I have never looked back and I am a repeat customer.
The GM delaer has to recover the huge expenses of floorplanned vehicles, large payroll, flat screen tv with gourmet coffee waiting room, et al.
Not sure why the price disparity in the holsters but I recommend Yankee does the following:
Contact Rafter S and offer "progress payments". You are a repeat customer after all. Tell them you wish to pay them 1/3 up front, 1/3 midway during quoted delivery and balance when shipped (with tracking number). The worst they can do is say "no" and be prepared to walk away if they do so.
