Custom Build: What is standard practice...

[garandman]

...as to when to make payment in full?

Is it typical to pay for the entire build up front, when delivery isn't anticipated for some 6+ months?

Or is it typical to pay for parts now, and labor immediately before delivery?

Thanx.

 

[BusterB]

I personally like to gather parts myself, when i have everything then get it to the smith to assemble. Helps the smith out also because they aren't keeping up with your parts, there are no excuses as to "that's not what I wanted", and prevents the smith getting badmouthed for poor delivery times when they are simply waiting for parts. Usually the rifle can be assembled rather quickly as long as all the parts are there. As far as paying for work, I have never had one ask for payment in advance. They are holding onto 2-5k in parts of yours, if you don't pay don't expect to see them back. Makes for pretty good collateral. I bet many of them may hope that they don't get paid so they can keep the rifle!

 

[garandman]

I can see paying for the parts, cuz the 'smith has to pay for the parts. I 'm questioning paying for the labor some 6 months in advance.

 

[BLDTYLRY]

I wouldn't pay for labor in advance and no reputable smith is going to charge you until after the work is done. Remember, they have your parts as collateral

 

[tcob68]

I've had two built by Jon Beanland and I just paid for the parts up front and then for the labor when they were finished.

 

[Bradu]

The smith I use wants half up front and the other half when it's finished.

 

[Hunt4life]

The smith I use wants half up front and the other half when it's finished.

That may be to cover the parts(if you aren't furnishing them), not unheard of. Just would not pay it all up front.

 

[garandman]

This is a very reputable 'smith. Not worried there. Just figger I should have my money UNTIL somebody does something to make it their money.