Re: Any really good Chinese optics yet?
Sometimes I think these threads get started only to solicit more anti-Chinese (and I'm not talking about only Chinese products) sentiments...
I am a Taiwan-born Chinese. As much as I dislike the Communists threatening my family living in Taiwan almost on a daily basis, saying I will never purchase anything related to China in this day is unrealistic. Most packaging used to contain the food you get in grocery stores is made in China, Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, etc., anywhere but here... Try straightening out the Unionized labor system here in the US first, before wondering why jobs are lost to foreign Countries where corporate decisions and wages are not controlled, or heavily influenced by the unions, and where the cost of living and wages are much lower.
Leupold may be building scope parts, or maybe even assembling scopes overseas, but Leupold still has operations here, with workers here that demand higher wages, probably because they've only laid off the people who used to assemble scopes and do not require the kind of pay of the higher-tiered professionals they still have around. Not saying they are not making more money now that production is cheaper and they've kept the same, or raised prices, but in a downed economy, building capital to remain solvent is very important, unless you all would like Leupold to just go away completely? It is a business decision, simple as that. I was laid off twice two years ago and once last year due to poor economy in housing industry. It would be great for me to think the companies will keep me because I performed my duties and they valued me, but that would be naive on my part.
The Chinese industry is capable of making quality products, IF their US or European parent companies demand it. There is a difference in mentality where they may think something is "good enough", while the rest of the world would consider that sub par. BUT they will produce a product up to the highest requirements, again IF their customers (e.g. Leupold) demand it. Most of us are watching TV on sets made in China, regardless of brand. If you think your TV is crap and/or "tainted" feel free to give it away, I'm sure most will accept it with open arms. Better yet, just chuck it in the trash because it is Chinese crap.
For what is worth, I am waiting on my first USO scope because no other company is offering a custom scope and excellent customer service that is within driving distance from me.
