IME IronGear's usurous international shipping rates cruel their relative value.

[br]To add insult to injury, they're only "R&D'd in the UK". Most probably made by ARM generically Artec, the same as Wilkinson or Vanson are to their own spec by the same Korean manufacturer, or one of its subcontractors. Not decrying IronGear quality, but why pay double and triple for nought but a novel name and marketing when Wilkinson or Vanson et al produced to high spec by the same OEM in Korea can be had?

IMPE IronGear triage "reasonably priced" only if buying them subsidised post free in the UK, but for residents in the US in particular, Seymour Duncan or DiMarzio are just as affordable. Had I that advantage, I'd choose to take advantage of it.

The primary reason ROW looks elsewhere for aftermarket other than those brands or Fender is price, as otherwise it's a "why venture elsewhere?" no brainer. Somewhere within the product range of those two US brands most whose underlying motivation isn't boutique chic affectation will find an acceptable tone and quality aftermarket substitute, tones for niche genres e.g. TV Jones, notwithstanding.