Stosh,
I'm all for giving vendors business.? I usually order from HPS, Astronomics, ADM, a couple of times a year.? Few others but they are my go to shops.
When I bought my G11T last Spring, I ordered it directly from Losmandy.? I did the same thing you are doing, visited vendor sites, etc..? I ended up speaking with Tanya and Scott, who both helped me a lot with my decision.? I just felt more comfortable purchasing it from them directly.? Not to say trusted vendors could not support you as well, but it was how I felt.??I had to wait about a week and a half for delivery.
As for quality control, I don't know if vendors actually QC the mounts prior to shipment.? But I'm sure the mount I purchased was QC'd at Losmandy's shop prior to shipment.? And the mount I ordered was they mount shipped.? I haven't had one problem with it since I received it.
I guess its a personal decision.? Wish I could give you more objective info.
- Jerry
