In some cases you get what you pay for, in other cases you get much more. I am glad that Calmini makes parts to give us all choices. They are usually a little lower priced and often they are the only ones offering certain things. That being said, the finishes delivered from Calmini are pretty much unacceptable. One or two times cleaning your X with a powerwasher after wheeling and the paint will be stripped off exposing bare unprotected metal. The designs, while functional are often not up to the standards of the higher priced competition.
Shrockworks armor and SLR suspension parts are great examples of parts which cost a bit more upfront but will likely save you money and disapointment later on.
Shrock designs have wheeling and abuse in mind. The welding and grinding quality are great, and the thick beefy powdercoating is second to none. Also available in bare steel saves you the money of paying for a finish if you have other plans.
SLR suspension parts are well engineered well tested and well produced. The tolerances are tighter and the designs are well thought out.
As an American machinist and tool maker I love to see companies like SLR and Shrockworks crafting such quality parts and backing them 100% with customer support. If you have questions about Shrockworks stuff the owner Jim Shrake will tell you everything you want to know. If you have a question about Spencer Low Racing stuff either Josh or Spencer will be right there with your answers. Both companies are run by people who wheel and understand our demands and desires.
Personaly I will try to give my business to these hard working small businessmen for every upgrade I can. If they don't offer what I need, then I will go looking for others who have the parts I am looking for.
I am so glad to have a few awesome reputable businesses serving our comunity.
Keep up the great work guys