Yes, it can't be easy... Fair points above. But at least they are trying.
I remember back in 2001, my first ELCs... They were baggy, drooping shoulders, floppy knit, two identical size RWs were quite different in fit. I had to order a size down, 38s, but they were way too short. ELC has come a ways since then, pattern updates, better leathers and knit etc... Plus, I've heard of a few broken zips on ELC jackets... Not all the hooklesss ones (I almost broke an HLBs at Duxford last year)... I had a GW arrive after 1.5 years with sleeves 1 inch shorter the Id ordered. Granted John took it back, but I was left without a jacket. Even Aero, I've had a great 15142, a Bronco which had a pocket fall off. Another with lopsided collar and another which arrived totally wrong hide. If these 'big' guys can make oopses, why not AVI? Its not like they are charging $1000
Their first supplier, '
copied' their original jackets (as best as those guys knew how) and gave the patterns out all over Pakistan
Bet they didn't plan for that.
Shawn's jackets look very nice, well made and neat for sure. And for the price, well-worth a punt if you're up for it.
But AVI were the guys who bought the original vintage jackets that all these patterns came from. With the intention to make a decent original maker repros, something I've been hoping for for years... And they found a way to make them at an affordable price. But theres a learning curve, exactly as mentioned above. These guys in that part of the world have skills, but there are nuances and detailing they need to learn to make these jackets properly. Skills the UK and US guys have taken decades to learn themselves...
I still have my V1 Bronco, I love it. Although its missing some detailing, its a great Bronco repro.
My first gen G-1 is my go-too cool weather jacket. My zipper did not break, but the puller was on the wrong side. I replaced the knit and had the zipper puller placed on the correct side, and wallah! I love it. Its looking superb, the grain has really popped out and its wearing in very well.
I believe there is a 'new' supplier who is making the horsehide Perry, I also know they are upgrading the knit parts, because thats always been a bug-bare for me...
The new Bronco? Well, I have not yet seen it. At a glance it looks like the previous version (which was nice enough)... I wish they'd used an olive drab thread and lighter knits, but lets see once jackets in hand. I agree that they should do this in horsehide also. Maybe they will.
In any case, gotta start somewhere and at least from my experience, the jackets are good... Not perfect. Yet. But they do seem to be motivated to improve. They're still around... and have certainly invested a lot already.
I am sure there are some who would sleep better if AVI left the scene. I for one hope they don't... We need them, and Shawn, and Platon...
Support where you can. Let them know your issues, so they can improve...