Highland Brigade Experience Comments Pls

[BobsYourUncle]

I have been pursuing reenacting as a hobby--Scottish regiments, of course. I have come across a company whose website advertises uniform doublets from the Highland Brigade regiments from pre Crimean War [1853-1856] to WWI era. When I googled their street address, it came up as a Mailbox, Etc. location. They sell pretty high end stuff, their items start at $350 and go up fast. Has anybody done business with them, and what was your experience? Their site is www.highlandbrigade.com. All comments appreciated. Cheers.

[Thunderbolt]

I say just give them a call. They have a toll-free number. After a few questions and the persons' responses, I can usually tell if the business experience will be good or bad. I'd ask things like where they're located so if you're "in the area" you can stop by. And where the items come from. Do they make them (doubtful) or have them made overseas (China, ****). Even just asking about return policies and such will give you a pretty good idea.

Sometimes straight-out asking blunt questions are the easiest way to get the answers you want.

"I've never heard of your business before, and since your items are handsomely priced, can you tell me why I should do business with you?" Asked in a sincere, polite tone you'll quickly get the answer you seek....


T.

[BobsYourUncle]

I say just give them a call. They have a toll-free number. After a few questions and the persons' responses, I can usually tell if the business experience will be good or bad. I'd ask things like where they're located so if you're "in the area" you can stop by. And where the items come from. Do they make them (doubtful) or have them made overseas (China, ****). Even just asking about return policies and such will give you a pretty good idea.

Sometimes straight-out asking blunt questions are the easiest way to get the answers you want.

"I've never heard of your business before, and since your items are handsomely priced, can you tell me why I should do business with you?" Asked in a sincere, polite tone you'll quickly get the answer you seek....


T.

Great advice. Actually, today the proprietor, Tim Mackie, returned my phone call, I just hung up with him. Sounds like a good person, I was able to talk about all the points you raise. He was obviously knowledgeable on the subject, what he had to say was consistent with my own research. The way he described his business made sense--the fellow has a different full time job, this is an outgrowth of a hobby and a personal passion--a small business that is very, very specialized, very small market--everything custom made, different parts of pieces made by different craftspeople, often in India, China, Pakistan, he does the final assembly, etc. I may order a lesser item, a specialty sporran, to see how that goes before any big plunge. I enjoyed talking with the fellow and am greatly encouraged. I am likely to give him a try. Thanks for your thoughts. Cheers!