I was at the museum open house Saturday night after the RCHTA show. What a gathering of model car royality. I got to meet the who's who of the hobby that evening.
And I would bet you have money invested in international funds or foreign stocks you do not even know about in your 401k.
So many people I know wave that American flag and shout buy American but complain when their American investments are returning meager amounts. So the companies cut cost by layoffs, outsourcing and manufacturing techniques that sustain some quality with major elements of planned obsolescence intergrated into the design to meet short sighted objectives and quick returns.
I order based upon reputation and customers feedback. I now stick with Hobbylink for Asian products, a few online casters, but for most aftermarket purchases I rely on big swap meets. I have had no issues and have eliminated frustrations.
Chris, maybe Rick could be cornered at Barrett Jackson in January-he is usually there. If he were able to meet you and see first hand your enthusiasm and sincerity, he might agree to work something out for you.
It was a treat to see this work in progress at the swap meet Saturday. But, it was a greater treat to meet Chris in person, a truely fine young gentleman.
Look up your local industrial Technology programs at the local high school and community college. Their machine tech programs should have aluminum scrap. They would appreciate a small donation in exchange.