First of all, a disclosure. Defender is a customer of my company. I do arrange for their imports from China and Europe. Having said that, as Stephen knows quite well (... ...) whatever profit I make, I blow it by spending it at Defender! I am convinced that Stephan makes more money off of me, than I do off of him...
What I do like about Defender is that I can deal with real people. They do usually respond quickly, are willing to work with me and sometimes, when I do find a better price, they bite the bullet and match it. I do much prefer to deal with Defender as opposed to the big box store.
Let's face it, can you name another online marine discount store, where you can have direct contact with the owner??? - "Hello Mr. West, how are you today?" - I will also tell you that Defender does not get all of my business. Sometimes, there is something that somebody sells for a price that may be so low for a reason. Defender is a for profit company and sometimes they have to pass up a sale. Nevertheless, I do sometimes also willingly pay them a little more. It is sort of like comfort food. I do know that Stephan and his crew will take care good of me! Cheers, Ronald