Trouble getting gear

One of the problems of the re-enacting hobby is that so much of the gear has to be custom made.  This usually means a pretty decent cost and potentially long wait times.  If something is needed for an event, the order for that item should be placed months in advance.As I work to put together the officer's uniform for the Napoleonic unit, I am running into the timing problem.

 Last May I ordered a gorget and officer's crossbelt place from a sutler in England.  I was promised a shipping date of August of 2007.  That date has long passed, yet no items have been received.  After repeated calls to the sutler, the new ship date is now Monday, March 31st 2008.  Only time will see if the items get shipped by then.

Last August, an order was placed for some custom boots.  I ordered the boots in August, hoping it would be enough time to get them for the Anza event in May.  Last month (Feb. 2008), I was told by the boot-maker that my order had shipped.  Since no boots have been dropped off at my house, I gave the supplier a call.  Apparently there was a problem with the shipper and my package can't be found.

Updates will be posted once the items arrive.

Ich Dien!