Meh - I'll go ahead and throw my 2 cents in here. I've never met John, and only talked to him once on the phone, but I did buy 2 of his cases this year - and will be ordering a true "custom" after the holidays. We've exchanged a few emails/texts/discussions on threads - but the truth is I can't lay claim to actually "knowing" John - so keep that in mind as you read my views. As mentioned, John has faults - but face it, we all do.
OK, first the cases:
Cons (to some):
The bulk of the work is done outside the US. At first glance they seem a bit high priced. Ordering a true "custom" can take a while (2-3 or 4 months seems to be a fair average.) If you purchase his standard fare - or specialty so to speak - those cues are really tight to get in and out. (see pros)
Pros:
Once you actually get the case in your hands, you'll understand the costs. And if the work were being done in the US, it would likely be double what it is now. The quality is second to none, and I have some nice cases. The cues are really in the cases tight (see cons) - so they are not going to rattle around, or fall out for no reason. It's not just a sales gimmick - it's fact. John is willing to do damn near anything in the line of "custom". If you can imagine it - John will put everything into making it happen.
Ok - now as far as John himself, (and this is where I'm going out on a limb).
Cons:
He can come across as being arrogant, crude, rude, and a bit rough around the edges. To be honest though - I've only see that side when someone is short with him, insults him or his integrity, or finds fault with his product. (he really does need to grow a bit thicker skin on that last one, not everyone has the same tastes.)
He has a tendency to spread himself pretty thin at times IMO. John's a helluva business man, but he has so many "lines of communication", that sometimes communications slip through the cracks. This can be frustrating to some folks (especially new customers). All I can say is that if he doesn't respond to one - try another venue. Facebook, text, PM here, phone, email, etc. Once you have his (or their) attention - you'll get 100% effort to make you happy.
Like I said, John can appear to be a bit thin skinned at times, but my guess is that even with all the experiences he's had - there's still a touch of insecurity there. There is certainly a ton of pride. After seeing how he defends his product and reputation - heaven help anyone insulting his family.
Pros:
John appears to be extremely passionate about his livelihood. I get the impression he truly loves what he does. He's the kind of man /ANY/ businessman wants working for a company. After many years of self-employment myself, there are qualities of Johns that I truly envy. He does put his heart and soul into making the very best product possible, and gives 100% towards satisfying a customer.
Regardless of what you read from disgruntled customers (some legitimately - that is unavoidable), John has a ton of integrity. John is an honest man. If he, or one of his employees, screws up - he admits it. Not just in an email, or a PM, but he comes out and owns his mistakes in public forums. He also does anything within reason to make amends for his screw-ups too.
Now if all this sounds like some sort of testimonial, perhaps it is. Maybe I feel a bit guilty about pointing out short-comings in the past. Or perhaps just talking to him face to face (well - on the phone) really impressed me.
I called last week and John answered the phone himself. I was window shopping, looking for an idea on prices for what I want - and he didn't make me feel rushed. (and I am aware of the value of a person's time). He asked if I wanted to order right then, but I also got the impression that waiting til after the holidays would be better. Seems he's busting his but to get current orders out in time for Santa. So after a 2x3 Rugged, and a 3x6 Ultimate Rugged in 2017 - I'm looking forward to ordering a truly "Ched's custom" 4x8 butterfly. (sadly - I won't be able to justify the cost of a full leather one, but it will be nice.)
Whew - most I've typed at one time in ages. But - been tossing those thoughts around for a while.
Anyway - my very best, kind regards, Merry Christmas, and Happy Holidays to all. (including John).
