I can see how frustrating it seems. They may have the Shells and the Lugs, but I wonder if they don't have the long Tension Bolts. In that case maybe it's not fair to expect them to go out of their way and custom order 12 Bolts. It's not like your brother is ordering a whole kit.

It's a shame though, look at the great publicity on here alone they would of got for doing it. There's a nice little (Friday afternoon with Phil or Jane with a Hand drill over in the Corner of the Factory once a month) trade waiting to happen for them accommodating the Vintage add on market. Hey you gotta keep the customer satisfied. Hell why not bring out the Legacy Club Dates anyway! Oooh now there's a thought.

Just a side note:

I wouldn't say Gibraltar's hardware is not of big quality. I've never had any bad experience with it. Then again, I only own two stands, add-on arm and a chair. But they all are sturdy and reliable.

This was exactly what I was trying to make with my earlier long-winded point.

+ 1 on this idea.

Gladstone shells can be ordered with the vintage configuration. That's their focus. Google gladstone drum shells.

I've read this thread from the start many times, and it has left me Howling, it's very funny actually. First off Ludwig which is very close to my house, is very cutting edge, look at there real market share that they command..

and the new products coming out of Monroe NC everyday.

With your brother being in the Industry, he should of already known the answer to your request or demand,, Manufacturer place Music store on a priority basis like any business,and it is dependent on what the manufacturer will and will not do for your particular Music store.

your total rant, simply showed me you are a beginner to the music Industry and the Instrument, Gibraltar hardware is the largest hardware manufacturer in the world. Also as to the comment of going to a smaller manufacture to get quality. you have Pearl listed, Pearl is the :Largest Drum Company in the world!!!! the kit your brother has is Gibraltar hardware, or the same Roc company that makes it for almost everybody,on the plant.

It is called Meridian, and they are who your ranting about, also Keller shells are the largest shell manufacturer in the US of A. shell ply really means almost nothing, it's the shell thickness that matters not plies.Why do you care what lugs are on the tom anyway No One is going to see it anyway but you!! behind that 90" bass drum you have. I play Big drums, but Dude, that thing must sound,, UGH!!I would love to hear a sound file of your playing??? Sorry this is Quite harsh, but you opened the can!

Well, I live inside a time capsule that refuses to move into the modern way of thinking and doing business -when it comes to drums.

I know there is a lot of power in a brand name. I know that marketeers have taken full advantage of this fact. I'll leave it at that.

I know that the drums I love and the way of doing business that I am fond of are both things of the past. So be it. That's where I'm coming from. I'm nostalgic.

I don't like ANY of the current so-called "American" drum companies. I've completely lost faith in them and the modern ways. I much prefer vintage drums.

I'm going to continue to live in the past thank you very much! x-mas3Burger Kin