Fords Refinishing

[Bell Charter Oak Holsters]

Based upon what I've read in this thread, it seems several fellows have had unfavorable experiences with Fords, yet others have had very positive experiences. But nearly everyone has been disappointed with their failure to deliver on time as promised.

I've had a taste of both with them. So, I suppose that this inconsistent service is typical of their business. In my view, the comments made here are adequate to illustrate that fact. I can say from my own experience that they are good and well intentioned folks and I don't think they are deliberately lying to customers about their turnaround time. My impression is that they are very disorganized and are entirely out of touch with their own production schedule. In most cases a mistake can be corrected, perhaps even forgiven. But they really need to address the reality of their turnaround time and manage their operations like a genuine business.

There have been a few other posts on Fords and some comments suggested there were issues within the company such as health problems and a move of their operations. I do know that negative threads about them have appeared in the last year or so. It is all too unfortunate because when they get it right, their work is very, very good indeed.

 

[jeremyws1]

Originally posted by oldflatfoot:
I can say from my own experience that they are good and well intentioned folks and I don't think they are deliberately lying to customers about their turnaround time. My impression is that they are very disorganized...

+1

 

[DHENRY]

Folks,
I have experienced the 'scheduling' and artistic issues firsthand, in the old-car restoration business.
Or...
Anybody out there ever restored an old house?
There does seem to be a disconnect between the craftsmanship capabilities and the 'run-the-business' facets of ALL 're-doing' businesses.
The notable exceptions would be, IMHO, David Chicoine and Gene Williams.
Don

 

[Sebago Son]

Well next time order an El Paso Floral Carved Holster and Belt Rig at the same time.....

That way it'll make the wait worthwhile....

Drew

 

[merlindrb]

I think I may hold the record on this one, or possibly Wordsmith (David C) has me beat as he's waiting on the same supplier...

There's a company that "restores" firearms up in Wisconsin. They're extremely well known in professional circles and are anything but cheap (circa $1800 per gun!). However, they guarantee that the finished gun will be absolutely perfect, as in like new! So, in July 2005 I sent them 2 guns.

The first was an RM that went to the Western Cartridge Co. for ammo testing. It needed to be completely restored.

The other was an 8 3/8" barrel K-32, built as a presentation gun for the retiring secretary of the NRA and engraved with his name at the factory. The end of the barrel was pitted on one side and needed to be refinished. The gun was otherwise perfect.

I've phoned them twice in the past 30 months and both times they told me they've not started and offer to send the guns back each time. If not, they're going to "get to it as soon as possible".

Is 30 months and still waiting a record?

David C. - care to comment on your experiences?

 

[A10ACN]

How about 10 years from a VERY well known 1911 Pistolsmith??? Yeah. Quoted 5 at the time of ordering and was quoting 7 at the time of receiving. Yeah...

 

[jphendren]

Dave,

I can't believe that you have not received that RM back yet. I've intended to ask you about how it turned out several times but have always forgotten.

Jared

 

[DWFAN]

David, I humbly apologize even letting you know who these folks were. I have the feeling that they would have gone some were else.

DW

 

[merlindrb]

Hey Paul, Merry Xmas mate! No sweat. I made the decision after looking at all the options. I'm certain the guns will be worth the wait when I get them back, I just won't send them any others. It certainly wasn't your fault.

I've another gun with Dave Chicoine at present and will post pics when it gets back. I've big hopes for that one. It's a 4 1/4 inch blue gun that had been very badly nickeled at some time in the past. I'm having it put back into original condition and blued. Fingers crossed.

Jared - I'm a patient man (especially when I've no other choice!)

How's Haiti A10ACN? 10 years is a VERY long time!!!!! You now hold the record and I'm happy to concede the title to you!

 

[gold40]

While my experience won't set any new records, I have had two recent "long waits" on shotguns:

1. I ordered a new SxS RBL shotgun from Connecticut Shotgun in December 2005, and prepaid in full. Only 19 months later the gun arrived! The shotgun is nice, but that was slow!

2. I have another old Remington SxS being completely refurbished & rebuilt, that has been at the gunsmith's for 16 months. He does beautiful work, but not very quickly. It will be worth the wait.

Some craftsman just take a while do do quality work....

JERRY