Recently, the Steel Mastery website not only went down, but seems to have become defunct. I view this event with some trepidation as I recently paid them for a large order of armor and have not heard from them. Does anyone know what's happening with Steel Mastery?

Update: their site is back up, but still haven't heard from them. Word has it that they are closed for a few weeks around Christmas. Will keep you updated on what happens.

This kinda worries me to as I have just placed an order for a visibly brig about a week ago .

I ordered a stock item from them and that took 12 days including a very thorough customs ritual (surely anything coming from Ukraine MUST be an illegal substance ...). However I have heard that custom objects or items not in stock takes ages. They also have some language challenges apparently allthough I had no problems placing my order.

Just received my Visby-style brig from them last week (~22nd). Took about six months. They indicated at one point (about 3 months ago) that they had an issue with a leather supplier. It sometimes took 3-4 days, but I always heard back from them. Orders for a belt & pouch earlier in the year were fulfilled within a couple of weeks (mail from Ukraine takes a little while).

They're slow, but I've been pleased with what I've purchased from them over the years (including a 3/4 Gothic harness about 3 years ago).

Brig turned out nicely, BTW - fits perfect, put together quite well, aesthetically pleasing, too.

Little OT: I want to purchase some steel rivets from them (around 100). How much time do you think it would take to have them, assuming that I live in italy?

I ordered just a stock brig so hopefully there wont be any problems, though at trhis time it may still be a while

If you're interested they're also on FB http://www.facebook.com/?ref=logo#!/profile.p...0518298339

We heard from them this week. They say they will ship the armor out at the beginning of next week. They also asked for some additional measurements for my half-greaves, so they seem to be on the case. Will post more when I hear more news, or when I get my armor.

My student is still waiting...

He's right around a year wait and counting.

He still e-mails them weekly and has had many ship dates missed.

I'll let you know if they come in.

Yours,

David

I've received my armor order! It took about three months, but that's not bad considering I ordered a custom gambeson, brigandine, bascinet, arms and legs. I'm quite happy overall though there are some small issues. With the reader's indulgence, I'd like to do a more in-depth review with pictures (though I'll need a few days).