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geekhack Marketplace => Group Buys and Preorders => Topic started by: merlin64 on Tue, 07 June 2016, 02:17:29

Title: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - All Orders Shipped
Post by: merlin64 on Tue, 07 June 2016, 02:17:29
Who Am I?

I've been an avid member of geekhack for about a year now. I have quite a few trades under my belt and so far no one has complained. I'm in the second batch for Octagon V2 so I actually don't even have an Octagon V2 yet. However thanks to certain community members, duckness, Pemdas, and everyone who participated in the IC, I have been able to proceed to the GB stage =).

This is my very first GB and I am still very much a noob at all this, so please be patient with me. If any of you experienced GB leaders see me doing something wrong, please feel free to chime in and set me on the right path.

I am not known to steal money and I have no warrants out for my arrest. But like anything on the internet, BUYER BEWARE.

What?

This is a metal weight insert for Duck Octagon V2 keyboards ONLY. You will have the choice of either Brass or Stainless steel, with Duck Octagon engraved on it or a blank plate. All plates will come polished. This is only applicable for those who ordered the aluminum bottom. It will be made locally in the good old USA and each plate will weigh roughly 1 lb. The stainless steel will be a little less. Please note, this is not a reversible plate, the screws will not sit flush and possibly damage your PCB. The screws needed have already been provided by Duck with your Octagon V2.

The plate pictured is a prototype made out of scrap aluminum. It was made for test fitting purposes and testing of various finishes. For history in how this came to be, please refer to the IC https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=81978.0 (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=81978.0)

[attach=1][attach=2]
Octagon V2 kindly provided by Pemdas as I have none
[attach=3]


Who can order?

Open to anyone who wants one. You don't even need an Octagon V2 to enjoy its goodness.  :). However, shipping will come in stages. CONUS first, then Canada, then International orders.

How much is it?

Blank plates are roughly $30 $40 while engraved plates will cost roughly $35 $45. That is for a total order of 40 units. Exact pricing may differ when the order is submitted so let's try and break 40 folks! I will ONLY take PayPal as it will give you 180 days to get your money back in case I decide to run away with your money. Hence, there will be PayPal fees involved. The first invoice sent will ONLY be for the cost of the unit. Another shipping invoice will be sent out once all items are at my doorstep.

Estimated USPS First Class Shipping costs for 1 plate
CONUS: $8 -12 USD
Canada: $12 - 15 CAD
International: $15 - 20 USD minimum. For exact costs, use the USPS website. It's 1 lb per plate.

If for some reason you are unable to pay, please contact me and we can work something out. Case by case basis of course. Make your case good!  :p

How long do I have to decide?

I would like to run this Group Buy for 2 weeks, closing on 6/21/16 9 pm PST. I'll start sending out invoices about a week in. If for some reason you missed this, you will be able to acquire these plates during the extras buying stage. It will be more expensive of course. It will take roughly 2-3 weeks of manufacturing if all goes well. July 4th is also in the middle of all that so there might be a delay here and there.

Can I have you put my own custom engraving on the plate?

That is a very cool idea, and I wish I could. If I were to do that, that would delay the manufacturing time by a lot, especially if everyone wants a custom design. My suggestion is to buy a blank plate and take it to a local engraver.

Sign me up!

Check your orders here ( I update this manually )
http://tinyurl.com/jbj9c8l

Status Updates
12/09/2016 - All Orders shipped
11/10/2016 - All US orders shipped. Invoicing/Shipping International orders.
11/07/2016 - US orders just about done, still waiting for 2 invoices to be paid. International invoicing/shipping to commence!
11/04/2016 - Brass Weights arrived, shipping out all US Single Engraved Brass units ONLY
09/12/2016 - Stainless Steel plates are done! Going to start shipping to those who ONLY ordered SS. Will have to wait for brass to finish up.
06/28/2016 - Everyone paid up, hurray! Order submitted to the manufacturer. I gotta do some paperwork, but manufacturing should start soon.
06/21/2016 - GB Closed, currently awaiting payments of open invoices. You have 7 days.
06/19/2016 - All 38 people currently involved in this GB have been invoiced. All new orders got until 06/21/16 9 PM PST.
06/18/2016 - Invoicing has begun!
06/16/2016 - Tracking List Added - Check your orders
06/14/2016 - Price adjustments - more expensive.
06/06/2016 - GB Submitted for moderator approval GB Live!!

Stages
Taking Group Buy Orders
Invoicing for items
Order Submitted/Manufacturing
Orders Done/Delivery to me
Quality Inspection + Photos
Invoicing for shipping
Shipping to CONUS Addresses
Shipping to Canada Addresses
Shipping to International Addresses
Extras Ordering
GB Done
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2
Post by: hkf on Tue, 07 June 2016, 21:50:43
What is international shipping cost? is it wrapped in the $35?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2
Post by: Pemdas on Tue, 07 June 2016, 21:52:21
Form submitted  :thumb:

Thanks again Merlin and good luck on the buy!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2
Post by: tuco on Tue, 07 June 2016, 21:55:58
I'm in!

Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2
Post by: merlin64 on Tue, 07 June 2016, 22:06:10
What is international shipping cost? is it wrapped in the $35?

Updated the OP. Estimated shipping would be $15 to 20 USD for international shipping. I'll send invoices once I have the plates.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2
Post by: hkf on Tue, 07 June 2016, 22:06:45
What is international shipping cost? is it wrapped in the $35?

Updated the OP. Estimated shipping would be $15 to 20 USD for international shipping. I'll send invoices once I have the plates.

Great. I filled in the form regardless! Much better than my quote of $80~USD + shipping.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2
Post by: merlin64 on Tue, 07 June 2016, 22:07:55
What is international shipping cost? is it wrapped in the $35?

Updated the OP. Estimated shipping would be $15 to 20 USD for international shipping. I'll send invoices once I have the plates.

Great. I filled in the form regardless! Much better than my quote of $80~USD + shipping.

Well if you are unsatisfied with my prices, I can match that other price no problem!  :p
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2
Post by: breitling on Tue, 07 June 2016, 22:15:18
In for one Polished Brass! But man Stainless would be cool too.. thinking maybe I should buy one of each.. damnit! If only there were no options...
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2
Post by: boo on Tue, 07 June 2016, 22:17:55
Hi Merlin,

Do you know if brass will corrode or deform over stainless steel? Thinking long term like 5 years
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2
Post by: ika on Tue, 07 June 2016, 22:22:07
Do you have a rough weight for the stainless steel plate?

Also that intl shipping seems low for the weight. I assume you're using First Class International?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2
Post by: stillzman on Tue, 07 June 2016, 22:26:28
wish i had an octagon :(
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2
Post by: RichieRo on Tue, 07 June 2016, 22:42:24
Submitted, thanks!!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2
Post by: RevoTeam on Tue, 07 June 2016, 23:04:52
wish i had an octagon v2 :(
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2
Post by: merlin64 on Tue, 07 June 2016, 23:06:34
Do you have a rough weight for the stainless steel plate?

Also that intl shipping seems low for the weight. I assume you're using First Class International?

Both plates are ~1 lb, with the stainless being a little less. I will be doing USPS First Class International for shipping. Cheapest I could find. Though if people want other forms of shipping and are willing to pay for it, I can do that too.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2
Post by: merlin64 on Tue, 07 June 2016, 23:07:58
Hi Merlin,

Do you know if brass will corrode or deform over stainless steel? Thinking long term like 5 years

It won't deform, but it will corrode if it's in plain air. I am no material scientist, so i can't say for sure how it will react sealed in your Octagon V2.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: ctrlX on Wed, 08 June 2016, 02:56:49
Thanks for doing this! Will put my order in as soon as I am on a more stable connection.

Edit:
Filled out form and submitted.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: E3E on Wed, 08 June 2016, 07:01:47
Awesome, good to see!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: nguyenkimtam on Wed, 08 June 2016, 07:31:09
i'm in
 :thumb:
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: Dreamre on Wed, 08 June 2016, 09:15:37
Is there any opportunity for getting matching screws for the brass plate? If not I'll go with the stainless steel option. Thanks.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: merlin64 on Wed, 08 June 2016, 09:35:15
I've looked far and wide for these m2.5 hex screws in brass and haven't been successful. If someone can find me a source I'd be glad to throw them in. This will add to the cost though.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: Dreamre on Wed, 08 June 2016, 09:43:14
I've looked far and wide for these m2.5 hex screws in brass and haven't been successful. If someone can find me a source I'd be glad to throw them in. This will add to the cost though.

Thanks for providing this info! I've tried and no luck either...
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: merlin64 on Wed, 08 June 2016, 10:27:45
FYI 2nd batch of Octagon V2s now have tracking info!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: xondat on Wed, 08 June 2016, 13:53:54
(https://img.accu.co.uk/products/SSK-BR_lg.jpg)

Would these suit your screw needs? M2.5 4mm.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: merlin64 on Wed, 08 June 2016, 14:44:09
Probably. Do they come in bras? Where can I get them?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: xondat on Thu, 09 June 2016, 09:11:43
Probably. Do they come in bras? Where can I get them?

Yeah brass, they're about $3.60 each so probably not too suited for your group buy. They're from a place in the UK.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: E3E on Thu, 09 June 2016, 09:19:46
I use brass screws with the copper weight I have in my Orion v2, and let me tell you, when it comes to those little screws, the weight is negligible vs. the stainless steel screws that came with Duck's boards.
 
Unless you demand the swag, you should be fine with stainless, and the contrast would probably make it look better, imo.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: xondat on Thu, 09 June 2016, 09:23:34
I use brass screws with the copper weight I have in my Orion v2, and let me tell you, when it comes to those little screws, the weight is negligible vs. the stainless steel screws that came with Duck's boards.
 
Unless you demand the swag, you should be fine with stainless, and the contrast would probably make it look better, imo.

I agree, personally I'd prefer the contrast but I think someone might want them to blend in or something. I never guessed it would be about weight though.

FYI I'm not in the buy because I don't have an Octagon but still want to help.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: E3E on Thu, 09 June 2016, 10:16:55
I agree, personally I'd prefer the contrast but I think someone might want them to blend in or something. I never guessed it would be about weight though.

FYI I'm not in the buy because I don't have an Octagon but still want to help.

Yeah, my first thought for using brass screws with my copper plate was contrast, but I did wonder if there'd be any significant difference with weight. Nah, should have figured. :P
 
Yep, no Octagon v2 here either. Sold the slot I bought off of you to another! Still, it's awesome seeing plates that are more or less Korean exclusive being made for us over here.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: merlin64 on Thu, 09 June 2016, 10:47:30
Looks like my Octagon V2 is in San Francisco! I wasn't expecting this until mid to late July!

I am tempted to close the GB a bit earlier so as to get the orders in and get this show on the road haha.

Plus, when I get that plate in, I'll be able to look into making those removable switch top plates too.

Hurray for cheap American copies.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: airs on Thu, 09 June 2016, 12:09:17
Filled out the form, thanks for running this GB. Really excited to hear you're trying to do one for an Octagon v2 plate too!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: gaiden on Thu, 09 June 2016, 15:07:35
What would be some key differences between a stainless steel plate and brass plate? Weight? Hardness? Does it require maintenance over time? Would like to know ppl opinions on which to get for a Silver top/bottom case? Thanks guys

Sent from my SM-G900T using Tapatalk

Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: aaron6301 on Thu, 09 June 2016, 15:45:13
What would be some key differences between a stainless steel plate and brass plate? Weight? Hardness? Does it require maintenance over time? Would like to know ppl opinions on which to get for a Silver top/bottom case? Thanks guys

Sent from my SM-G900T using Tapatalk

Can't address your questions regarding the key differences but I can provide me opinion on what might look better. In the original thread, https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=81978.0, the picture in the first column, third row is likely going to represent how it will look on a silver base/case. I for one thing that brass might compliment the silver a little better due to the contrast.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: merlin64 on Thu, 09 June 2016, 15:56:48
I think I will let Wikipedia speak for me about the differences between the materials. As specified earlier, brass will be heavier but at these quantities, it won't be much. Think 1 lb for brass vs 0.98 for stainless steel. You won't feel the difference. Material selection was chosen primarily for color.

Brass: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brass (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brass)
Stainless Steel: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stainless_steel (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stainless_steel)
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: merlin64 on Thu, 09 June 2016, 16:00:57
What would be some key differences between a stainless steel plate and brass plate? Weight? Hardness? Does it require maintenance over time? Would like to know ppl opinions on which to get for a Silver top/bottom case? Thanks guys

Sent from my SM-G900T using Tapatalk

Can't address your questions regarding the key differences but I can provide me opinion on what might look better. In the original thread, https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=81978.0, the picture in the first column, third row is likely going to represent how it will look on a silver base/case. I for one thing that brass might compliment the silver a little better due to the contrast.

Aaron are my photos in the OP not showing? The photos you referenced should be the same as the one in the OP.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: aaron6301 on Thu, 09 June 2016, 16:09:47
What would be some key differences between a stainless steel plate and brass plate? Weight? Hardness? Does it require maintenance over time? Would like to know ppl opinions on which to get for a Silver top/bottom case? Thanks guys

Sent from my SM-G900T using Tapatalk

Can't address your questions regarding the key differences but I can provide me opinion on what might look better. In the original thread, https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=81978.0, the picture in the first column, third row is likely going to represent how it will look on a silver base/case. I for one thing that brass might compliment the silver a little better due to the contrast.

Aaron are my photos in the OP not showing? The photos you referenced should be the same as the one in the OP.

My apologies, I was jumping around both thread. You are correct, I should have just referenced the OP.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: merlin64 on Fri, 10 June 2016, 10:20:27
For those concerned about brass corroding....

Funny how you forget things, but I did some furniture work in the past and we protected brass handles and hardware by putting lacquer on them. I believe you can also use tung oil and wax. That was well over 10 years ago, so they may actually have better stuff now, but lacquer is cool!

As mentioned previously, because you won't be coming in contact with this on a day to day basis, it will most likely be protected from corrosion.

I know lacquer can catch fire, but I really doubt our keyboards get that hot. If people want, I can lacquer it up for a small price. It should only take a thin coat.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: gaiden on Fri, 10 June 2016, 10:26:30
I think I will let Wikipedia speak for me about the differences between the materials. As specified earlier, brass will be heavier but at these quantities, it won't be much. Think 1 lb for brass vs 0.98 for stainless steel. You won't feel the difference. Material selection was chosen primarily for color.

Brass: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brass (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brass)
Stainless Steel: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stainless_steel (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stainless_steel)
Thanks for info, if I changed my mind on the material can I change my order later? Also will there be a Google Doc on how many ppl signed up for what plate along with their Octagon case color? Public opinion matters to me and possibly others because it helps me make better decisions :)

Sent from my SM-G900T using Tapatalk

Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: merlin64 on Fri, 10 June 2016, 10:39:56
If I'm not mistaken, you can just re-submit the form. However once I've sent out the invoice, you're probably gonna have to PM me and let me know.

That excel sheet sounds like a good idea, however I unfortunately didn't put metrics up for bottom and top plate color. I suppose I cold manually compare Elton's and my google docs and work on it. I'll look into doing that this weekend.

This concern for things that you won't see on a daily basis is quite intriguing. It reminds me of the Steve Jobs biography in which I learned that he insisted that the PCBs be beautiful even when no one would see it.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: gaiden on Fri, 10 June 2016, 11:30:38
It's not about what you can see, its about what you know is there ;) thanks for giving the effort for doing the spreadsheet, kudos!

Sent from my SM-G900T using Tapatalk

Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: merlin64 on Mon, 13 June 2016, 18:51:10
Just got my Octagon V2, looking at the switch plate, it seems that if I were to do switch top removal mod, the switches on the right and left sides would make the frame really thin. I wonder if that's going to be bad for mechanical support.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: E3E on Mon, 13 June 2016, 19:42:14
Just got my Octagon V2, looking at the switch plate, it seems that if I were to do switch top removal mod, the switches on the right and left sides would make the frame really thin. I wonder if that's going to be bad for mechanical support.

Were you going to notch the switch plate or have a new plate made entirely for switch top removal? I'm curious.
 
If the switches are PCB-mount, you should have no issues, I'd say.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: merlin64 on Mon, 13 June 2016, 19:52:49
New plate made from scratch. =). Notching the plate with hand tools would probably destroy any aesthetic appeal the plate has.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: merlin64 on Tue, 14 June 2016, 08:26:21
Got my Octagon V2, so put up one more pic with it!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders
Post by: merlin64 on Tue, 14 June 2016, 12:55:44
Regrettable news guys. Please don't get too mad at me, but I am perfectly willing to accept any reprimands/chastising/order withdrawals.

TL;DR: Price has to increase to $40 for blanks and $45 for engraved. This is for one single unit.

As long as you use your same name, you should be able to resubmit the form reflecting any order changes. If not, please PM me directly. If I don't get any communication from you, I will assume you are accepting of the new price and the upcoming invoices will be adjusted accordingly.

This also means that weights sold after the GB has ended will also be more expensive. So don't wait!

Price Increase Reason:
The engraving and most especially the finishing process is quite intense for a run of this size. We are at roughly 47 units 1 week in the GB stage. From the looks of it we aren't going to get any price breaks unless we hit double that. I might even get less than that if people pull out due to the new pricing.

What I've Been Doing:
Last week, I've personally sent out an email to everyone (who didn't fill out an order form yet) on elton's Octagon V2 thread who has purchased an Octagon V2 with aluminum bottom. There are still about 15 who haven't replied so I really don't think we're going to hit a price break unless those 15 people all reply and choose to buy 2-3 units.

Consolation:
This is still far below the cost of weights from Korea. Good news, is that I haven't invoiced at all, so no one has given me money. So, no one has lost money. The only thing lost is some of my confidence running my very first GB. But we will make this happen.

Things Learned:
I should have put a buffer zone for the initial estimate. I had no idea the engraving and finishing would add $10 more. I'll be more accurate when it comes time to other weights/plates for other future GBs.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: roostrc0gburn on Tue, 14 June 2016, 16:20:16
$50-60 is still within the expected price range for something like this. i knew it would not be easy finishing and engraving these. Paid nearly $400 for the keyboard, $50 is not going to deter me. I do hope this is the end of unforseen costs, though.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: hkf on Tue, 14 June 2016, 18:12:24
That's quite a large jump, can you give some justification for this? Initially your pricing included a difference for engraving and unified finish, so I am really surprised by the 25~% increase.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: Dreamre on Tue, 14 June 2016, 18:21:22
No worries, it's understandable. Thanks for the update!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: merlin64 on Tue, 14 June 2016, 21:01:59
That's quite a large jump, can you give some justification for this? Initially your pricing included a difference for engraving and unified finish, so I am really surprised by the 25~% increase.

I didn't do my due diligence to check back with my manufacturer after he actually made the units to see what it would take. I made the incorrect assumption that the original estimate still stood. I understand that this is unfavorable for all of us and probably more so for international customers. Looking back on it now, $30-$35 for a finished and engraved plate made in the USA really is quite a steal and I should have taken precautions for potential price hikes. 

If you choose to withdraw your order, I won't feel offended.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: hkf on Tue, 14 June 2016, 21:20:15
That's quite a large jump, can you give some justification for this? Initially your pricing included a difference for engraving and unified finish, so I am really surprised by the 25~% increase.

I didn't do my due diligence to check back with my manufacturer after he actually made the units to see what it would take. I made the incorrect assumption that the original estimate still stood. I understand that this is unfavorable for all of us and probably more so for international customers. Looking back on it now, $30-$35 for a finished and engraved plate made in the USA really is quite a steal and I should have taken precautions for potential price hikes. 

If you choose to withdraw your order, I won't feel offended.

Oh, ok. So the initial price is an estimate.

I'll hop out for the meanwhile. I'll put in a new form in if my situation changes :D
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: breitling on Wed, 15 June 2016, 01:10:25
Still a good deal. I'm still in.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: boo on Wed, 15 June 2016, 19:04:32
Do we need to fill the form again because of the higher price?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: merlin64 on Wed, 15 June 2016, 20:26:47
Only if you want to make changes/back out to your order.

Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: tuco on Wed, 15 June 2016, 21:25:54
I'm still in too, thanks again!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: ctrlX on Thu, 16 June 2016, 01:05:59
I'm still in also. Not that big of a price increase imo. My problem lies more in that there are a lot of incoming key sets that I really want. So making it work financially is gonna be challenging. Having said that, 5$ here or there is not gonna make a difference. An option would be to pull out. But I doubt this opportunity will come again. I will however opt for the blank one to save me some monies. Gonna have it engraved with something personal when the wallet allows me to.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: kenshinjeff on Thu, 16 June 2016, 05:26:25
Still in : )
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: merlin64 on Thu, 16 June 2016, 10:35:03
UPDATE - Put in a tracking list

Check your orders and see what other people have ordered. Funny thing is everyone who has a black bottom, ordered Brass.

Invoices will start trickling out this weekend.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: hkf on Thu, 16 June 2016, 17:42:41
I'm still in also. Not that big of a price increase imo. My problem lies more in that there are a lot of incoming key sets that I really want. So making it work financially is gonna be challenging. Having said that, 5$ here or there is not gonna make a difference. An option would be to pull out. But I doubt this opportunity will come again. I will however opt for the blank one to save me some monies. Gonna have it engraved with something personal when the wallet allows me to.

Not to be a negative nancy but duck has made the CAD files for these publicly available and its just you doing the legwork to find which local metalwork shop will do a oneoff for a decent price.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: Dreamre on Thu, 16 June 2016, 18:08:34
I'm still in also. Not that big of a price increase imo. My problem lies more in that there are a lot of incoming key sets that I really want. So making it work financially is gonna be challenging. Having said that, 5$ here or there is not gonna make a difference. An option would be to pull out. But I doubt this opportunity will come again. I will however opt for the blank one to save me some monies. Gonna have it engraved with something personal when the wallet allows me to.

Not to be a negative nancy but duck has made the CAD files for these publicly available and its just you doing the legwork to find which local metalwork shop will do a oneoff for a decent price.

I don't agree with your statement. OP took the time and effort to find someone to cut these plates. You definitely didn't consider the time he has spent. Also, he didn't have to start a GB...he could have just made a one off plate for himself. Did you also forget about that OP needs to pack and ship these? He's taking his own time to go through with this GB. If you're too cheap, don't be a part of this GB. You have to pay to play.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: roostrc0gburn on Thu, 16 June 2016, 18:12:47
i doubt merlin will be shipping these overseas anyway...

hkf, why dont you just find a shop in sydney to make one for you? i bet the price is about the same, and you can get exactly what you want
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: hkf on Thu, 16 June 2016, 18:19:07
i doubt merlin will be shipping these overseas anyway...

hkf, why dont you just find a shop in sydney to make one for you? i bet the price is about the same, and you can get exactly what you want

With the increase, yeah it actually does work out to be the same.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: merlin64 on Thu, 16 June 2016, 20:36:11
I actually will be shipping overseas =). If my international buyers live close enough, I would suggest putting their orders into one package, that will shave off a few dollars here and there.

hkf, I truly regret not being able to sell it for the cheap price. I feel even more regretful that I didn't do enough background work to get the price locked in and held to my initial word. Please forgive this GB newb and his amateur mistakes. 

 I think I would have had better luck if I had found some overseas manufacturer, but then shipping to the US would be killer. If you read through the IC, you'll find that I originally opened this ONLY for CONUS buyers as shipping would be a big deterrent. However as I am the only one doing this, I was persuaded and highly encouraged to open it to international buyers as well. So, quite naturally this GB is very biased towards US and Canada buyers. (I'm even shipping within Canada as I'm timing a Canadian vacation along with it. I've offered local pickup to those who live around me as well). I'm trying my best here, but the price really isn't something I can budge on.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: -musubi on Fri, 17 June 2016, 03:16:56
I actually will be shipping overseas =). If my international buyers live close enough, I would suggest putting their orders into one package, that will shave off a few dollars here and there.

hkf, I truly regret not being able to sell it for the cheap price. I feel even more regretful that I didn't do enough background work to get the price locked in and held to my initial word. Please forgive this GB newb and his amateur mistakes. 

 I think I would have had better luck if I had found some overseas manufacturer, but then shipping to the US would be killer. If you read through the IC, you'll find that I originally opened this ONLY for CONUS buyers as shipping would be a big deterrent. However as I am the only one doing this, I was persuaded and highly encouraged to open it to international buyers as well. So, quite naturally this GB is very biased towards US and Canada buyers. (I'm even shipping within Canada as I'm timing a Canadian vacation along with it. I've offered local pickup to those who live around me as well). I'm trying my best here, but the price really isn't something I can budge on.

Personally I think if we're already spending $400+ for an octagon then an extra $10 won't hurt too much ;) really appreciate you running this GB for us, and extra kudos to being a Seattle local as well!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: merlin64 on Fri, 17 June 2016, 09:32:30
Another consequence of increased pricing is that making spares is going to be quite costly. It's $170 just to get 1 of each.

I'm not sure I can afford to sink several hundred on spares for a very limited keyboard that less than a 100 people around the world have. (This round at least). If this was something like keycaps then sure, but not a weight for a Duck Octagon.

There is no guarantee that the spares will sell as extras. This is another reason why the spares will sell for a lot more. Using the above figure, if 1 out of 4 sells, even with marked up prices, I'd still be at least $100 short.

The recent discussions has made me reconsider about even buying spares and offering replacements. Perhaps it will be easier for everyone, if in the event something goes wrong, I'll just give you your money back.

Of course you will need to legitimately prove to me that something did go wrong.  That means that I need to do an awesome packing job on my end. This also means that this is it. After Tuesday, these will only be available 2nd hand. What do people think about this approach?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: roostrc0gburn on Fri, 17 June 2016, 12:29:32
your shop should work with you for replacements. if the craftsmanship is not up to snuff, they should be willing to replace it. of course, that means you need to inspect and ship them well
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: -musubi on Fri, 17 June 2016, 12:55:17
Another consequence of increased pricing is that making spares is going to be quite costly. It's $170 just to get 1 of each.

I'm not sure I can afford to sink several hundred on spares for a very limited keyboard that less than a 100 people around the world have. (This round at least). If this was something like keycaps then sure, but not a weight for a Duck Octagon.

There is no guarantee that the spares will sell as extras. This is another reason why the spares will sell for a lot more. Using the above figure, if 1 out of 4 sells, even with marked up prices, I'd still be at least $100 short.

The recent discussions has made me reconsider about even buying spares and offering replacements. Perhaps it will be easier for everyone, if in the event something goes wrong, I'll just give you your money back.

Of course you will need to legitimately prove to me that something did go wrong.  That means that I need to do an awesome packing job on my end. This also means that this is it. After Tuesday, these will only be available 2nd hand. What do people think about this approach?

If you want to just go simple, just have a disclaimer and if things go wrong then you have people accept them ahead of time. You shouldn't have to pay extra or suffer just cause you're trying to help people out.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: merlin64 on Fri, 17 June 2016, 12:59:25
You both bring up good points. The shop can offer me replacements if things don't turn out well when I receive them, but from me to all of you, that's another issue.

-musubi, you're in the list of people not needing to worry about shipping since I can meet you downtown or something haha. Unless I drop it as I go down the stairs or anything like that, you will receive a mint unit.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: beltet on Sat, 18 June 2016, 02:18:39
I'm still in also. Not that big of a price increase imo. My problem lies more in that there are a lot of incoming key sets that I really want. So making it work financially is gonna be challenging. Having said that, 5$ here or there is not gonna make a difference. An option would be to pull out. But I doubt this opportunity will come again. I will however opt for the blank one to save me some monies. Gonna have it engraved with something personal when the wallet allows me to.

Where do you live? I'm thinking of joining this but it would save on shipping if we combined our package. As we both is located in Sweden. I'm in sthlm/gotland btw.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: ctrlX on Sat, 18 June 2016, 03:39:48
I'm still in also. Not that big of a price increase imo. My problem lies more in that there are a lot of incoming key sets that I really want. So making it work financially is gonna be challenging. Having said that, 5$ here or there is not gonna make a difference. An option would be to pull out. But I doubt this opportunity will come again. I will however opt for the blank one to save me some monies. Gonna have it engraved with something personal when the wallet allows me to.

Where do you live? I'm thinking of joining this but it would save on shipping if we combined our package. As we both is located in Sweden. I'm in sthlm/gotland btw.
I live in Stockholm also.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: merlin64 on Sat, 18 June 2016, 10:14:38
And there we go, I have accomplished my secret goal of bringing geekhackers together lol

 :)
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: merlin64 on Sat, 18 June 2016, 18:00:20
Invoicing has begun!

Reminder that this GB closes Tuesday 9 PM PST.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: Dreamre on Sat, 18 June 2016, 21:14:33
Paid!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: -musubi on Sun, 19 June 2016, 13:27:05
Just paid the invoice, and I'll send you a PM to set up a pick up. Thanks!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: merlin64 on Sun, 19 June 2016, 16:45:40
Excellent, I nearly have enough payments for an all expenses paid trip to Hawaii

I've finished sending out all the invoices! Man that was rather time consuming, I wonder how people who have 100+ GB orders do it lol!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: omgar on Sun, 19 June 2016, 17:03:33
I paid my invoice but just realized shipping wasn't included. Will we get invoiced for shipping once you receive them?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders/Price Adjustment (higher)
Post by: merlin64 on Sun, 19 June 2016, 18:35:36
That is indeed the plan.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders until 9 PM PST 6/21/16
Post by: merlin64 on Mon, 20 June 2016, 09:24:44
Good morning GeekHackers!

We have less than 48 hours to go before GB orders are closed.

I have already invoiced everyone currently on the list and we are currently at about 50% paid. Thank you all those who have paid so quick.

For those who have yet to pay, you have 7 days from the end of the GB order closing, after that your order will be cancelled. If for some reason you are having financial difficulties but really really want this, please PM me and I'm sure we can work something out. I am here to help you get into financial debt get the keyboard parts you want!!  :)
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders until 9 PM PST 6/21/16
Post by: beltet on Mon, 20 June 2016, 11:47:59
I'm still in also. Not that big of a price increase imo. My problem lies more in that there are a lot of incoming key sets that I really want. So making it work financially is gonna be challenging. Having said that, 5$ here or there is not gonna make a difference. An option would be to pull out. But I doubt this opportunity will come again. I will however opt for the blank one to save me some monies. Gonna have it engraved with something personal when the wallet allows me to.

Where do you live? I'm thinking of joining this but it would save on shipping if we combined our package. As we both is located in Sweden. I'm in sthlm/gotland btw.
I live in Stockholm also.

Want to combine shipping?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders until 9 PM PST 6/21/16
Post by: airs on Mon, 20 June 2016, 12:25:36
Met up with Merlin this weekend to buy some vintage blacks from him. He brought the prototype insert too and I had a chance to handle it - looks great. Thanks Merlin!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders until 9 PM PST 6/21/16
Post by: roostrc0gburn on Mon, 20 June 2016, 12:58:52
merlin, what thickness is the plate?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders until 9 PM PST 6/21/16
Post by: aaron6301 on Mon, 20 June 2016, 13:00:46
Paid, thanks!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders until 9 PM PST 6/21/16
Post by: merlin64 on Mon, 20 June 2016, 13:30:22
merlin, what thickness is the plate?

It is 3 mm. It sits flush with the crevice in the aluminum bottom. This was tested by Pemdas who traveled all the way up from Portland to meet me.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders until 9 PM PST 6/21/16
Post by: WNovizar on Tue, 21 June 2016, 02:58:41
Paid, finally
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders until 9 PM PST 6/21/16
Post by: beltet on Tue, 21 June 2016, 03:37:22
Ordered!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders until 9 PM PST 6/21/16
Post by: merlin64 on Tue, 21 June 2016, 09:25:15
Good morning once again!

Today is the final day for GB orders. I will be closing the orders at 9 PM PST TODAY. That's a little more than 12 hours from now.

For those who haven't paid their invoices, you have 7 days from the close of the GB, after that your order will be cancelled. If you are unable to pay for some reason but still want this, please send me a PM and we can discuss payment.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders until 9 PM PST TODAY
Post by: T0mb3ry on Tue, 21 June 2016, 11:27:00
I would like to order, however Duck did not provided four additional screws for the plate. There are 4 screws but they are supposed for the bottom. Thats unfortunate...

Edit: fak dat ****! I ordered one stainless steel with engraving. Brass is nice but its always gets dark cuz oxidation.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders until 9 PM PST TODAY
Post by: merlin64 on Tue, 21 June 2016, 11:34:05
I have been told by several people with the alu bottom that they had enough screws for the plate. Hearing this in the last 12 hours of the GB is quite unfortunate.

However the screws can be readily had at your favorite hardware store. The screws are M2.5 with length of 6 mm.

Unfortunately people want these in brass, and I haven't been able to find any store that has brass in stock.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders until 9 PM PST TODAY
Post by: T0mb3ry on Tue, 21 June 2016, 11:39:08
I have been told by several people with the alu bottom that they had enough screws for the plate. Hearing this in the last 12 hours of the GB is quite unfortunate.

However the screws can be readily had at your favorite hardware store. The screws are M2.5 with length of 6 mm.

Unfortunately people want these in brass, and I haven't been able to find any store that has brass in stock.
Ty for the tipp, i think its not that hard to find some matching crews for it. Ty again for running this gb. I appreciate it. Actually i ordered a carbon switch plate for us ansi. It has cutouts for switch openings. If you are interested i can provide svg. But first i have to test it if it fits.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders until 9 PM PST TODAY
Post by: duckness on Tue, 21 June 2016, 12:44:25
however Duck did not provided four additional screws for the plate. There are 4 screws but they are supposed for the bottom. Thats unfortunate..
I have an alu bottom & a steel weight in my possession and I have enough screws, what screws do you have left? are you currently using a flat acrylic bottom?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders until 9 PM PST TODAY
Post by: T0mb3ry on Tue, 21 June 2016, 13:20:51
however Duck did not provided four additional screws for the plate. There are 4 screws but they are supposed for the bottom. Thats unfortunate..
I have an alu bottom & a steel weight in my possession and I have enough screws, what screws do you have left? are you currently using a flat acrylic bottom?
Nope i got aluminum bottom. This GB is made only for aluminum bottom. Anyway i got only 4 flat screws. So i need 4 additional flat screws. But i'll get some for sure.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Taking Orders until 9 PM PST TODAY
Post by: beltet on Tue, 21 June 2016, 15:15:36
Paid!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - CLOSED/Awaiting Payments
Post by: merlin64 on Tue, 21 June 2016, 23:07:35
The time has come! The GB is now officially closed.

Everyone has been sent an invoice and as of now, 36/43 have been paid.

If you have an open invoice, please pay it within 7 days. I will cancel your invoice this time next week. Please pay ASAP so I can give an official order to the manufacturer. If you do not intend to pay, please inform me so all of us don't have to wait until next week for the order submission.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - CLOSED/Awaiting Payments
Post by: merlin64 on Wed, 22 June 2016, 09:42:38
I have sent a friendly reminder PM to all those with open invoices  :)

Everyone else, please check the order tracker one more time to verify that I have everything correct!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - CLOSED/Awaiting Payments
Post by: merlin64 on Sat, 25 June 2016, 18:16:11
Greetings, I have received a few emails from people regarding when I'm sending out the order. Rest assured, I haven't run away with your money.

I am still waiting on a few people to pay open invoices. Last day to pay is Tuesday 9 PM PST. After that orders will be cancelled.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - CLOSED/Awaiting Payments
Post by: ctrlX on Tue, 28 June 2016, 08:31:35
(dunno if this is the correct thread to ask this)

Any news/updates regarding switch top removal plate? I saw your comment on Tombery's post in the Octagon V2 GB thread.

Are you still planning on doing one for Octagon? Although I've already assembled mine, I am still interested in one if it will happen. I also have a vague memory of one being discussed for the OrionV2 or was I dreaming?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - CLOSED/Awaiting Payments
Post by: merlin64 on Tue, 28 June 2016, 16:40:35
(dunno if this is the correct thread to ask this)

Any news/updates regarding switch top removal plate? I saw your comment on Tombery's post in the Octagon V2 GB thread.

Are you still planning on doing one for Octagon? Although I've already assembled mine, I am still interested in one if it will happen. I also have a vague memory of one being discussed for the OrionV2 or was I dreaming?

It's in the works. I have to touch base with Tomb3ry regarding getting the svg files. I have to compare it with mine which is basically a copy of the original but with switch removal notches.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Submitting to manufacturer
Post by: merlin64 on Tue, 28 June 2016, 16:48:05
UPDATE  Everyone paid, so I submitted the order to the manufacturer. Got some logistics and paperwork to deal with but other than that manufacturing should start soon.

As mentioned previously, this stage should take 2 -3 weeks. I'll shoot out updates once a week regarding this.

DISCLAIMER: You may notice that I have been responding at odd times. That is because I am out vacationing in Asia. I'll be back stateside in a little over a week. Please give me a few hours to reply to any questions and if you have tried contacting me and received no response, it's because I'm forgetful and could use a reminder.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - CLOSED/Awaiting Payments
Post by: ctrlX on Tue, 28 June 2016, 17:07:54
(dunno if this is the correct thread to ask this)

Any news/updates regarding switch top removal plate? I saw your comment on Tombery's post in the Octagon V2 GB thread.

Are you still planning on doing one for Octagon? Although I've already assembled mine, I am still interested in one if it will happen. I also have a vague memory of one being discussed for the OrionV2 or was I dreaming?

It's in the works. I have to touch base with Tomb3ry regarding getting the svg files. I have to compare it with mine which is basically a copy of the original but with switch removal notches.

Nice!  :thumb:
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Production
Post by: merlin64 on Wed, 06 July 2016, 20:03:54
UPDATE - With all festivities out of the way, looks like production is beginning soon. Materials used for production have all arrived as well.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Production
Post by: merlin64 on Tue, 12 July 2016, 14:43:08
UPDATE - Manufacturing still ongoing, nothing new to report.

In other news, I am back stateside, so I will be replying more frequently to any inquiries people have.

If you are attending the Seattle Reddit Meetup this coming Saturday at Shoreline Community College, I'll be there with the weight sample and a few Alps keyboards =). Come and say hi.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Production
Post by: AceRuckus on Wed, 13 July 2016, 01:58:31
Can't wait for extras to be available!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Production
Post by: merlin64 on Wed, 13 July 2016, 08:44:56
Can't wait for extras to be available!

Sorry to break it to you, but due to the increased pricing and limited nature of the Octagon V2 keyboard, there won't be any extras unless people choose to sell theirs.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Production almost done (pictures!)
Post by: merlin64 on Mon, 18 July 2016, 09:40:26
UPDATE - Looks like I'll be able to pick up the units this coming Saturday!! Hurray.

Here's some pictures of the manufacturing process.

[attach=1][attach=2][attach=3]
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Production almost done (pictures!)
Post by: aaron6301 on Mon, 18 July 2016, 09:45:39
UPDATE - Looks like I'll be able to pick up the units this coming Saturday!! Hurray.

Awesome, thanks for the update! Should we expect shipping to start next week?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Production
Post by: merlin64 on Mon, 18 July 2016, 09:58:03
That is what I hope to accomplish. Hope all goes smoothly.

I'll be sending out invoices as I weigh the packages.

Keep an eye on the order tracker as it will notify you of when your order gets shipped.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Production
Post by: -musubi on Mon, 18 July 2016, 10:51:25
That is what I hope to accomplish. Hope all goes smoothly.

I'll be sending out invoices as I weigh the packages.

Keep an eye on the order tracker as it will notify you of when your order gets shipped.
Awesome perfect timing to sync up with r3!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Production, set for pickup this weekend!
Post by: merlin64 on Mon, 18 July 2016, 15:48:20
-musubi, heard you were at the meetup, but I didn't get a chance to meet you, or maybe I did. Too many people haha.

Yah I'm still trying to get my Octagon Plate done! Hopefully that will be finished shortly as well.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Production, set for pickup this weekend!
Post by: chili14 on Mon, 18 July 2016, 16:04:15
-musubi, heard you were at the meetup, but I didn't get a chance to meet you, or maybe I did. Too many people haha.

Yah I'm still trying to get my Octagon Plate done! Hopefully that will be finished shortly as well.


Are you still planning on running a GB for the Octagon plate?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Production, set for pickup this weekend!
Post by: merlin64 on Mon, 18 July 2016, 16:09:43
For sure. I just need to actually get a prototype finished and verify that it fits. Once that's done, I'll run another GB. It's going to be small though, I doubt too many people will want to desolder their existing Octagon V2s and risk damaging the PCB just to have this. This will be mainly for the R3 people and those who still haven't built their boards. As it is a small run, I'm expecting it to be fairly pricey.

Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Production, set for pickup this weekend!
Post by: -musubi on Mon, 18 July 2016, 17:35:47
-musubi, heard you were at the meetup, but I didn't get a chance to meet you, or maybe I did. Too many people haha.

Yah I'm still trying to get my Octagon Plate done! Hopefully that will be finished shortly as well.

I know shucks I definitely went by too quickly for me to fully utilize the time I was there, hopefully there will be another one in the near future though.

On the talk of the octagon and how it fits, is it necessary to place the weight in before soldering the switches and assembly? Or is it pretty easy to put in the weight without doing any desoldering and just unscrewing the case if it is already built? (Pardon me for the ignorance I'm haven't completely researched how the Octagon is assembled yet, was just going to wing it when I saw the parts in person).
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Production, set for pickup this weekend!
Post by: billhicks on Mon, 18 July 2016, 19:09:20
Based on the pictures on:

http://duck0113.tistory.com/125

It looks like the PCB + plate are attached with screws to the top housing, which would mean it would be easy to switch out the weights, but I am not an expert.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Production, set for pickup this weekend!
Post by: E3E on Mon, 18 July 2016, 20:28:16
-musubi, heard you were at the meetup, but I didn't get a chance to meet you, or maybe I did. Too many people haha.

Yah I'm still trying to get my Octagon Plate done! Hopefully that will be finished shortly as well.

I know shucks I definitely went by too quickly for me to fully utilize the time I was there, hopefully there will be another one in the near future though.

On the talk of the octagon and how it fits, is it necessary to place the weight in before soldering the switches and assembly? Or is it pretty easy to put in the weight without doing any desoldering and just unscrewing the case if it is already built? (Pardon me for the ignorance I'm haven't completely researched how the Octagon is assembled yet, was just going to wing it when I saw the parts in person).

From what I've seen, it's just like the Orion v2--the relief for the weight is cut into the aluminum bottom, which means that it doesn't matter at all if you've built the board already.

All you have to do is unscrew the bottom from the top (which has the PCB and plate mounting), and put the weight into the bottom relief, and then reassemble. I've done this with my Orion a few times.  :thumb:
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Production, set for pickup this weekend!
Post by: cirrus82 on Tue, 19 July 2016, 11:10:28
For sure. I just need to actually get a prototype finished and verify that it fits. Once that's done, I'll run another GB. It's going to be small though, I doubt too many people will want to desolder their existing Octagon V2s and risk damaging the PCB just to have this. This will be mainly for the R3 people and those who still haven't built their boards. As it is a small run, I'm expecting it to be fairly pricey.

+1 for the plate. I actually got an extra PCB as my Orion came with a bad SMD LED way back when, so I'm actually quite interested in your plate buy too. I keep looking down at mine and notice the PCB peering through the universal cutouts in the plate, and it's surprisingly distracting. I would've never noticed it if you hadn't brought it up (or someone did in the original Octagon thread). Awesome marketing, now I have to have one.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Production, set for pickup this weekend!
Post by: boo on Tue, 19 July 2016, 12:07:36
+1 for the plate. just  got my R3 octagon yesterday but waiting on this plate and R4 zeals to start the build
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Production, set for pickup this weekend!
Post by: -musubi on Tue, 19 July 2016, 12:14:49
Based on the pictures on:

http://duck0113.tistory.com/125

It looks like the PCB + plate are attached with screws to the top housing, which would mean it would be easy to switch out the weights, but I am not an expert.

-musubi, heard you were at the meetup, but I didn't get a chance to meet you, or maybe I did. Too many people haha.

Yah I'm still trying to get my Octagon Plate done! Hopefully that will be finished shortly as well.

I know shucks I definitely went by too quickly for me to fully utilize the time I was there, hopefully there will be another one in the near future though.

On the talk of the octagon and how it fits, is it necessary to place the weight in before soldering the switches and assembly? Or is it pretty easy to put in the weight without doing any desoldering and just unscrewing the case if it is already built? (Pardon me for the ignorance I'm haven't completely researched how the Octagon is assembled yet, was just going to wing it when I saw the parts in person).

From what I've seen, it's just like the Orion v2--the relief for the weight is cut into the aluminum bottom, which means that it doesn't matter at all if you've built the board already.

All you have to do is unscrew the bottom from the top (which has the PCB and plate mounting), and put the weight into the bottom relief, and then reassemble. I've done this with my Orion a few times.  :thumb:

Great to hear! I was assuming the pcb/plate and top would be completely detachable from the rest of the body leaving just the insert for the weight in the bottom, glad that this seems to be the case. I get mine today so I'm really excited to get it built asap :D
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Production, set for pickup this weekend!
Post by: breitling on Tue, 19 July 2016, 13:09:53
Great to hear! I was assuming the pcb/plate and top would be completely detachable from the rest of the body leaving just the insert for the weight in the bottom, glad that this seems to be the case. I get mine today so I'm really excited to get it built asap :D

You can definitely can put the weight insert after the board has been fully assembled by just removing the base. I think the confusion came in when merlin was talking about the switch top removal plate GB (not insert) and was talking about how people wouldn't want to remove their switches just to install it.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Production, set for pickup this weekend!
Post by: -musubi on Tue, 19 July 2016, 14:03:02
Great to hear! I was assuming the pcb/plate and top would be completely detachable from the rest of the body leaving just the insert for the weight in the bottom, glad that this seems to be the case. I get mine today so I'm really excited to get it built asap :D

You can definitely can put the weight insert after the board has been fully assembled by just removing the base. I think the confusion came in when merlin was talking about the switch top removal plate GB (not insert) and was talking about how people wouldn't want to remove their switches just to install it.
Yeah that is exactly what through me off XD makes a lot more sense haha
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Production, set for pickup this weekend!
Post by: Namkhanhv on Tue, 19 July 2016, 23:57:44
Glad to see progresses from the GB. I've just received the kit and switches, just need this one and I can complete my first Korean KB  :D
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Production, set for pickup this weekend!
Post by: ctrlX on Wed, 20 July 2016, 05:49:46
I have an Octagon from 1st batch and I am still interested in a plate. Just in case I will desolder it in the future.

But is a Orion plate also planned, or just for Octagon?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Production, set for pickup this weekend!
Post by: merlin64 on Fri, 22 July 2016, 15:57:01
UPDATE - Confirmation for pickup tomorrow! I'm somewhat tempted to find a nice leather briefcase, lay out the brass plates in it, and take a photo. To replicate this:

[attach=1]

Pretty excited to be picking these up and mailing them out to you all. It's my first GB and I'm quite happy that things are rolling smoothly. I'll be sure to take photos and put them up here.

For those interested in the Octagon V2 plate I've alluded to, I'll make a formal announcement on a different thread when I have the weight inserts in my possession. Do expect it to be pricey as it's going to be a smaller run and not as "easily" manufactured as the weight inserts.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Production, set for pickup this weekend!
Post by: boo on Fri, 22 July 2016, 17:29:08
+1 for plate  :thumb:
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Production, set for pickup this weekend!
Post by: gaiden on Fri, 22 July 2016, 18:54:55
UPDATE - Confirmation for pickup tomorrow! I'm somewhat tempted to find a nice leather briefcase, lay out the brass plates in it, and take a photo. To replicate this:

(Attachment Link)

Pretty excited to be picking these up and mailing them out to you all. It's my first GB and I'm quite happy that things are rolling smoothly. I'll be sure to take photos and put them up here.

For those interested in the Octagon V2 plate I've alluded to, I'll make a formal announcement on a different thread when I have the weight inserts in my possession. Do expect it to be pricey as it's going to be a smaller run and not as "easily" manufactured as the weight inserts.

when you say plate maybe expensive could you give a safe guestimate on about how much we are looking at per plate? would there be CF option for it?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Production, set for pickup this weekend!
Post by: merlin64 on Sat, 23 July 2016, 22:45:43
UPDATE - Picked up the units, there is good news and bad news.

Good news first

1. The units look awesome, when holding the stainless steel and the brass the brass is noticeably heavier but not by much. I have pictures!

[attach=1]
[attach=2]

The stainless steel hasn't been polished, so maybe it's a blessing in disguise. Either way I have until Sunday night to back out or not.

Bad News: I blame a certain someone for congratulating me on a "perfect GB" for jinxing me this morning. LOL. I'm kidding of course.

Issue 1: Stainless Steel units are done, but not polished. Polishing head needs to be replaced as the brass units pretty much wore it out. So polishing of Stainless Steel will begin on Monday with deliver to me next week. My supplier was kind enough to mail it to me for free.

Issue 2: There are a bunch of micro scratches on the brass plates. These scratches are only visible under a certain angle and a certain light, and only if you are looking less than a foot away. I believe they are a cause of the polishing process. The mirror finish I feel accentuated the scratches. Some units are more badly scratched than others, and I can feel the scratch. I will be certainly asking to have those more deeply scratched units redone. I am concurrently writing a complaint as I write this to see what can be done about this issue. 

Does anyone know if this is just what happens when you polish metal and there's no way around it, or did my guy just really mess up??

This is a picture of a unit that is badly scratched

[attach=3]
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: gaiden on Sat, 23 July 2016, 22:50:08
When I read SS don't have polished surface I was like nooooo. Then whew as I read on. Please remember some ppl can't take such dramatic news kindly this late on a weekend evening XD

Sent from my SM-G900T using Tapatalk

Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: boo on Sun, 24 July 2016, 00:01:53
I ordered SS and I don't mind the extra wait. Sometimes perfection requires time.

Thanks for the update
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Production, set for pickup this weekend!
Post by: omgar on Sun, 24 July 2016, 00:04:21
UPDATE - Picked up the units, there is good news and bad news.

Good news first

1. The units look awesome, when holding the stainless steel and the brass the brass is noticeably heavier but not by much. I have pictures!

(Attachment Link)
(Attachment Link)

The stainless steel hasn't been polished, so maybe it's a blessing in disguise. Either way I have until Sunday night to back out or not.

Bad News: I blame a certain someone for congratulating me on a "perfect GB" for jinxing me this morning. LOL. I'm kidding of course.

Issue 1: Stainless Steel units are done, but not polished. Polishing head needs to be replaced as the brass units pretty much wore it out. So polishing of Stainless Steel will begin on Monday with deliver to me next week. My supplier was kind enough to mail it to me for free.

Issue 2: There are a bunch of micro scratches on the brass plates. These scratches are only visible under a certain angle and a certain light, and only if you are looking less than a foot away. I believe they are a cause of the polishing process. The mirror finish I feel accentuated the scratches. Some units are more badly scratched than others, and I can feel the scratch. I will be certainly asking to have those more deeply scratched units redone. I am concurrently writing a complaint as I write this to see what can be done about this issue. 

Does anyone know if this is just what happens when you polish metal and there's no way around it, or did my guy just really mess up??

This is a picture of a unit that is badly scratched

(Attachment Link)

Thanks for the update. I didn't know they would be coming in a mirror finish so I'm totally okay with the scratches.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: billhicks on Sun, 24 July 2016, 15:08:50
Isn't the purpose of polishing to remove scratches? Can you take photos that are in focus please...?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: Spopepro on Sun, 24 July 2016, 17:39:38
Polishing can make scratches more apparent. When really wanting a mirror finish sometimes you have to get half way through sanding and buffing with decreasing grit, notice some deeper scratches are still there, and then start over. The only way to get them out is to take all of the material down to the bottom of where the scratch ends. I will sometimes repeat the process 3-4 times before something is flawlessly shiny. So a really good mirror finish is usually very expensive because of massive labor costs.

As for how they got there, could have been from manufacturing the stock, from the machining process, or contamination on the wheels.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: gaiden on Sun, 24 July 2016, 18:23:51
not sure when there would new photos but i went to circled the suspected 'micro scratches' on each photo to help those who has trouble seeing them. maybe ppl would get a better idea what they look like http://imgur.com/a/hcH0R
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: merlin64 on Mon, 25 July 2016, 09:15:03
I apologize for the out of focus photos, didn't realize they were that bad until I enlarged it haha. I've already packed them back up @_@. I'll see if I can pull them out again.

Meanwhile, we are working on solutions to the problem. Looking into going down to extra fine 2400 grit sand paper and using a jeweler's rouge. It will take longer to accomplish this so for those who were eagerly awaiting a shipping invoice, I must apologize yet again.

I'll provide an update once we know exactly what needs to be done.

I'm really hoping we don't need to re-run this, I also don't want to be stuck with a bunch of micro scratched plates. I suppose if that ends up being the case, I'll have quite a few extras in brass for those who don't care about scratches.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: aaron6301 on Tue, 26 July 2016, 10:54:38
Thanks for the update Merlin. Sans the scratches, they look pretty darn sexy.  :thumb:
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: gaiden on Fri, 29 July 2016, 21:47:33
Hi Merlin, any updates on either type of plates? just wanna keep check once a week i figured. thanks.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: boo on Sun, 31 July 2016, 04:30:32
Any word on SS plates?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: merlin64 on Mon, 01 August 2016, 10:53:16
Time for the weekly update! Trying a new way of polishing and will be examining the results this coming Thursday.

If this proves successful, we'll be doing the same process (re-doing or something) on the brass plates. Fingers crossed that this will be it.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: gaiden on Mon, 01 August 2016, 11:01:23
SS plates will be guinea pigs? *gasp* :o nooooooooooooooooooo :p  will be eager to hear the results :)
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: merlin64 on Mon, 08 August 2016, 11:59:50
UPDATE I regret to inform you all that I unfortunately did not have time to do any work regarding this GB this past weekend, currently waiting to hear back from my manufacturer when we can re-schedule and see how the SS plates turned out.

Actually I lied, I tried to do some polishing on the brass plates of my own, nothing as intense, just cloth rag and fluids. On the sample I tried to work on, if I got it super shiny, the scratches pretty much are invisible unless I look closely at an angle.

Weeks ago I also mentioned about using lacquer if you wanted to prevent your brass units from getting finger prints and oxidizing (it will take years for this to happen). I applied a thin layer to the same unit and it seemed to do the trick. The process is easily reversible using the same polishing compound I used, to polish away the lacquer.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: omgar on Mon, 08 August 2016, 12:24:39
UPDATE I regret to inform you all that I unfortunately did not have time to do any work regarding this GB this past weekend, currently waiting to hear back from my manufacturer when we can re-schedule and see how the SS plates turned out.

Actually I lied, I tried to do some polishing on the brass plates of my own, nothing as intense, just cloth rag and fluids. On the sample I tried to work on, if I got it super shiny, the scratches pretty much are invisible unless I look closely at an angle.

Weeks ago I also mentioned about using lacquer if you wanted to prevent your brass units from getting finger prints and oxidizing (it will take years for this to happen). I applied a thin layer to the same unit and it seemed to do the trick. The process is easily reversible using the same polishing compound I used, to polish away the lacquer.

Thanks for the update. Is it possible to get our units despite the "polish issues". I plan to bead blast mine regardless.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: merlin64 on Mon, 08 August 2016, 12:41:30
Well the thing is, I still don't know what the final resolution is yet. I'd hate to get them all re-done and know that I shipped you a sub-par product.

I made a commitment and received money for a mirror finish, until I have that in hand, I don't think I should be shipping any out.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: omgar on Mon, 08 August 2016, 12:45:34
Well the thing is, I still don't know what the final resolution is yet. I'd hate to get them all re-done and know that I shipped you a sub-par product.

I made a commitment and received money for a mirror finish, until I have that in hand, I don't think I should be shipping any out.

Understood. Thanks for doing this!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: airs on Mon, 08 August 2016, 12:55:41
Built my Octagon over the weekend. It feels great already but I am excited to add even more weight to it. Thanks for the update Merlin.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: roostrc0gburn on Tue, 16 August 2016, 15:09:37
Time for the weekly update! Trying a new way of polishing and will be examining the results this coming Thursday.

If this proves successful, we'll be doing the same process (re-doing or something) on the brass plates. Fingers crossed that this will be it.


what was the outcome of this?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: merlin64 on Wed, 17 August 2016, 10:10:52
Update - It has been decided that rather than polishing the stainless steel, it would be more cost effective and time efficient to re-order pre-polished stainless steel and re-make the weights. The brass units are simply going to be re-polished. The new material should be arriving sometime this week.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: roostrc0gburn on Wed, 17 August 2016, 11:40:03
Update - It has been decided that rather than polishing the stainless steel, it would be more cost effective and time efficient to re-order pre-polished stainless steel and re-make the weights. The brass units are simply going to be re-polished. The new material should be arriving sometime this week.

what do you mean "pre-polished"? I assume this is means cutting the plates from finished stock. I just ran a GB for stianless steel plates, and i have learned a lot on finished stock and how hard it is to keep pretty through the manufacturing process. there are also lots of different kinds of stock finishes. here are a couple good guides:

http://www.worldstainless.org/Files/issf/non-image-files/PDF/Euro_Inox/Finishes02_EN.pdf
http://www.ssina.com/finishes/sheetsamples.html

it is nearly impossible to achieve a "mirror finish" on any metal without surface treatment after manufacturing. I have found that many of the fabrication shops in the PNW do not do surface treatment. it is labor intensive ($$$) and they typically dont want to be responsible for such craftsmanship.

If you have not had these conversations with the manufacturer, i suggest you nail down your terms. if a true #1 mirror finish is not possible, i think we should adjust our expectations. personally, i expect to do a few hours of polishing by hand anyway.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: boo on Wed, 17 August 2016, 12:25:00
Update - It has been decided that rather than polishing the stainless steel, it would be more cost effective and time efficient to re-order pre-polished stainless steel and re-make the weights. The brass units are simply going to be re-polished. The new material should be arriving sometime this week.

Any way to change the SS weights to Brass?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: merlin64 on Fri, 19 August 2016, 09:45:04
@roostrc0gburn: What you have mentioned is perhaps the biggest learning experience for me in this GB. I didn't realize how hard it would be to achieve the unscratched mirror finish I had envisioned in my head. Currently working to get as close to that as possible. To be honest I'm very disappointed it turned out this way.

@boo: You can try asking again after the dust has settled. People may want to do trades.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: breitling on Fri, 19 August 2016, 13:41:03
The challenge on the mirror finish totally understandable to me. I collect a lot of custom knives, and getting a perfect mirror polish on a flat surface can be very difficult, especially with the hardened steels that they use. That's why you almost never see a mirror polish on and production knives.. its always bead/sand blasted, stonewash/tumbled, satin finished or coated. I was optimistic that maybe the brass stock was a very good finish to begin with or maybe because of how soft it is it would be easier but I guess not! Either way, thanks for the hard work, merlin64.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: merlin64 on Wed, 24 August 2016, 09:27:54
UPDATE - Alright! Got notice that the stainless steel will be done this week! These are new units, different from the last batch. The materials for these were ordered to be pre-polished, so they should be significantly nicer than the brass units (which still have to be re-polished).
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: gaiden on Wed, 24 August 2016, 09:37:16
 :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: aaron6301 on Tue, 30 August 2016, 12:02:51
Any updates available for the brass weights?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: merlin64 on Wed, 31 August 2016, 18:12:25
UPDATE

My manufacturer had a little accident the past week hence he has been taking his time to finish the plates. He's finishing up the steel plates with some hand finishing and should be done later tonight.

The brass plates are still sitting with me, I'll probably make the exchange with him when I pick up the steel plates and send those out first.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: gaiden on Wed, 07 September 2016, 08:30:53
UPDATE

My manufacturer had a little accident the past week hence he has been taking his time to finish the plates. He's finishing up the steel plates with some hand finishing and should be done later tonight.

The brass plates are still sitting with me, I'll probably make the exchange with him when I pick up the steel plates and send those out first.


good to hear about the SS cant wait!  :thumb: :thumb:
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: merlin64 on Thu, 08 September 2016, 09:18:00
UPDATE

SS plates were actually finished last week but I somehow skimmed through email too fast and missed them. From the pictures they look much better than the brass ones!

We are currently sorting out logistics as to when I'm going to go pick them up or if they should just ship it out to me. I still have the brass plates that need to be sent for re-finishing so hopefully that can be sorted out soon.

Meanwhile, did someone say pictures?

[attach=1][attach=2]
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: omgar on Thu, 08 September 2016, 09:55:56
UPDATE

SS plates were actually finished last week but I somehow skimmed through email too fast and missed them. From the pictures they look much better than the brass ones!

We are currently sorting out logistics as to when I'm going to go pick them up or if they should just ship it out to me. I still have the brass plates that need to be sent for re-finishing so hopefully that can be sorted out soon.

Meanwhile, did someone say pictures?


Oooo. That's nice.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: -musubi on Thu, 08 September 2016, 10:36:00
Dang that mirror finish, looks great!! When can we pick up? :D
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: merlin64 on Thu, 08 September 2016, 13:20:51
Dang that mirror finish, looks great!! When can we pick up? :D

I'll keep you posted when I find out.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: gaiden on Thu, 08 September 2016, 14:28:37
Wow excited for my engraved SS plate! :D

Sent from my SM-G900T using Tapatalk

Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: merlin64 on Fri, 09 September 2016, 09:26:36
How many of you guys actually care if your brass plate has scratches. I know at least one of you doesn't. I'm thinking for those who don't care I can start shipping along with the Stainless steels hopefully by next weekend.

Any thoughts?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: roostrc0gburn on Fri, 09 September 2016, 10:52:54
How many of you guys actually care if your brass plate has scratches. I know at least one of you doesn't. I'm thinking for those who don't care I can start shipping along with the Stainless steels hopefully by next weekend.

Any thoughts?

lets see some pics. for as long as this has taken, i would like a mirror finish
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: aaron6301 on Fri, 09 September 2016, 11:34:07
^Agreed. Is it possible to see what is actually going to be shipped to us prior to shipping, the actual weight assigned to buyer X?

Also, what is the expected completion date of the re-polished brass?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: breitling on Fri, 09 September 2016, 13:23:15
I guess I kind of care.. depends on how bad the scratching is for me.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: ctrlX on Fri, 09 September 2016, 15:00:47
I'd rather have mine polished.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: mrkevint on Fri, 09 September 2016, 16:05:04
I do not mind waiting longer to have my brass plate refinished. Thanks for keeping us up to date!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: qqeyes on Mon, 12 September 2016, 12:24:02
After seeing how beautiful the SS plates look in fine with waiting!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Picked up but there are issues
Post by: merlin64 on Mon, 12 September 2016, 18:27:16
UPDATE

Picked up the SS plates and boy do they look many times better than the brass!! Here are some pictures! I've left some with the plastic still on so that you guys can peel it back. Here's a small sample

[attach=1][attach=2]
[attach=3][attach=4]

Those plastic pieces are super sticky. I had to rub it really hard to get it off. If you look at the blank plate you'll see that I still have some on the edges.

The brass plates have been sent over as well to be reworked, no ETA on when those will finish. However in the meantime I will start shipping out the SS plates to those who only ordered SS plates. Expect an invoice from me sometime soon regarding shipping. If you've previously spoken to me about combining shipping, I will hold off on those still.

Once again I apologize at how long this GB has taken. It was a big learning lesson for me but I am very glad that we are seeing light at the end of the tunnel!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: tuco on Mon, 12 September 2016, 18:50:44
Looks awesome!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: gaiden on Mon, 12 September 2016, 18:53:11
Wow yes! They look sexy as hell

Sent from my SM-G900T using Tapatalk

Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: E3E on Mon, 12 September 2016, 19:36:29
Very nice work from the shop, man. Those look so nice. The finish is amazing.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: Butter on Mon, 12 September 2016, 20:23:02
Oh boy oh boy . They look great! Can't wait for that invoice.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N930A using Tapatalk

Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: yookwh on Mon, 12 September 2016, 20:32:20
Hey there, do you by any chance have any extra SS plates? Thanks
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: ctrlX on Tue, 13 September 2016, 02:30:28
Wow! If the brass plates turn out that shiny, I'd be more than happy! Cheers for doing this and no stress. GBs is nothing for the impatient one ;)
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: merlin64 on Tue, 13 September 2016, 11:33:41
Hey there, do you by any chance have any extra SS plates? Thanks

Unfortunately I've only sold as many as were ordered. Your best bet is the secondary market.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: roostrc0gburn on Tue, 13 September 2016, 13:04:47
have you talked to your shop to get an ETA on the brass plates yet?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: merlin64 on Tue, 13 September 2016, 17:03:52
As of our conversation last night, ETA is still to be determined.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: boo on Tue, 13 September 2016, 22:10:08
paid shipping invoice for SS. HYPE
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: merlin64 on Tue, 13 September 2016, 22:11:10
UPDATE

Just sent out the first wave of Shipping Invoices. Kudos to Butter for being super fast on payment. Once again you can check your orders on

http://tinyurl.com/jbj9c8l

These have been sent out to ONLY the people who ordered stainless, and ONLY if they live in the US.

Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: gaiden on Tue, 13 September 2016, 22:12:24
UPDATE

Just sent out the first wave of Shipping Invoices. Kudos to Butter for being super fast on payment. Once again you can check your orders on

http://tinyurl.com/jbj9c8l

These have been sent out to ONLY the people who ordered stainless, and ONLY if they live in the US.
SS shipping invoice paid! Woot!

Sent from my SM-G900T using Tapatalk

Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: Butter on Wed, 14 September 2016, 12:04:46
Got my tracking. Thank you  :D
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: Butter on Fri, 16 September 2016, 12:42:46
Just got my today. super fast shipping. Thank you for doing t his GB :)

Any plan for blackbird?

(http://i.imgur.com/zu9xpoa.jpg?1)
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: Butter on Fri, 16 September 2016, 12:43:50
Just got my today. super fast shipping. Thank you for doing this GB :)

Any plan for blackbird?

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/zu9xpoa.jpg?1)

Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: merlin64 on Fri, 16 September 2016, 13:31:32
The Orion would be the next thing unless I get my  hands on the blackbird design files
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: gaiden on Fri, 16 September 2016, 13:45:10
The Orion would be the next thing unless I get my  hands on the blackbird design files
I think what really matters would be how many people would commit.

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Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: merlin64 on Fri, 16 September 2016, 14:12:26
Prior to launching this GB I had people inquiring about the Orion. However there was more interest for the Octagon (plus I had one on order myself so I could actually test fit). A few people who are in this GB also expressed interest in an Orion weight.

I have design files and already have one GH member willing to test fit for the Orion, but I'd like to progress further with this GB before I start another one.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: chili14 on Fri, 16 September 2016, 14:50:28
Hey Merlin

I just wanted to check in again and see if there are still plans to run the switch top plate after this? I've been holding out on assembling mine in hopes the GB gets run.

And thanks again for running this GB, the plates look awesome.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: merlin64 on Fri, 16 September 2016, 14:58:55
I'm in the same boat as you man. I've purposely withheld on buying switches so I don't just spontaneously build it.

After completion of the GB, my guy was going to make the prototype (he has the design files already). But the bad polish job derailed stuff. In addition he also injured his hand so he couldn't do much with just one. I'm not his only customer and I'm probably one of his smaller ones too so I'm not expecting him to make a prototype until after the brass weights get picked up.

With that knowledge though I've been scouting around the Seattle area for any other people who could do it. Coincidentally there is one CNC miller 1.5 blocks away from my house, but for some reason they stopped responding. Maybe my potential order is too small and too cheap.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: E3E on Fri, 16 September 2016, 22:17:01
Prior to launching this GB I had people inquiring about the Orion. However there was more interest for the Octagon (plus I had one on order myself so I could actually test fit). A few people who are in this GB also expressed interest in an Orion weight.

I have design files and already have one GH member willing to test fit for the Orion, but I'd like to progress further with this GB before I start another one.

Sounds good to me!  :thumb:  I'm also down to participating in the GB and buying a plate if it happens.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: airs on Fri, 16 September 2016, 23:54:54
Thanks for meeting up today Merlin. Loving the extra weight!

(http://i.imgur.com/Xro6g77.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/DertGec.jpg)
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: boo on Sat, 17 September 2016, 15:26:22
woohoo received mine just now.

So anyone have any idea how to get some of the glue off? I am using alcohol but seems like it spreads the glue rather than getting them off  :(
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: airs on Sat, 17 September 2016, 15:28:39
woohoo received mine just now.

So anyone have any idea how to get some of the glue off? I am using alcohol but seems like it spreads the glue rather than getting them off  :(

I use citrus air freshener to remove most stickers - works like magic: https://www.amazon.com/American-NA222-6-Citrus-Orange-Freshener/dp/B00173U7D4

They also have it at Home Depot and Walmart I think.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: boo on Sat, 17 September 2016, 18:36:58
Thanks air!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: gaiden on Sat, 17 September 2016, 18:42:18
woohoo received mine just now.

So anyone have any idea how to get some of the glue off? I am using alcohol but seems like it spreads the glue rather than getting them off  :(

I use citrus air freshener to remove most stickers - works like magic: https://www.amazon.com/American-NA222-6-Citrus-Orange-Freshener/dp/B00173U7D4

They also have it at Home Depot and Walmart I think.
Let's do a sticky plastic removal group buy! XD

Sent from my SM-G900T using Tapatalk

Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: Asbrodeus on Mon, 19 September 2016, 07:50:15
I know you didnt make any extras but is there a chance to get one made even at a higher one off price? didn't manage to snag an octagon until very recently  :-X. I'm already charging up my mechmarket search skills.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: merlin64 on Mon, 19 September 2016, 08:50:51
There's always a chance but it probably won't happen until this first round is done.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: -musubi on Tue, 20 September 2016, 02:00:08
Met up today in person with Merlin and picked up my weight. He's an awesome and stand up guy! Definitely sit tight and be patient guys, he's working his butt off for the GB  :p I will post pics of the weight and installation later when I have time to unscrew my octagon  :D
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Plates picked up
Post by: merlin64 on Tue, 20 September 2016, 09:41:34
Thanks for the vote of confidence!  :)

Anyway here's an UPDATE

All local (United States) orders of Stainless Steel only units, have been shipped (except for 1 waiting on shipping payments). This week I'll be sending out invoices to Stainless Steel only international orders.

Brass is easier to work with than stainless steel, my manufacturer won't need to re-order pre-polished material. He's working on it this week. Unfortunately by the time he is done, I'm going to be off on vacation so I really won't be getting any logistics done until I get back.

Once again, feel free to check your order on http://tinyurl.com/jbj9c8l (also available on the original post) and contact me if you have any concerns or questions.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Only US Orders shipped (except 1)
Post by: megaforce on Thu, 22 September 2016, 13:03:21
Received mine last week; thanks for a smooth GB!

(http://i.imgur.com/x3ydOrI.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/oKtNL66.jpg)
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Only US Orders shipped (except 1)
Post by: merlin64 on Thu, 22 September 2016, 15:49:53
Thanks for your kind words! That looks sick!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Only US Orders shipped (except 1)
Post by: -musubi on Mon, 03 October 2016, 03:24:41
Finally got to installing mine the other day, looked beautiful! It's a shame I didn't have enough spare stainless steel hex screws that came with the octagon but found some other ones that fit fine.
(https://i.imgur.com/ntSBvRk.jpg)
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Only US Orders shipped (except 1)
Post by: Dreamre on Mon, 03 October 2016, 16:39:44
Hi Merlin,

Have invoices been sent out for the SS weight for Canadians yet?

Thanks!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Only US Orders shipped (except 1)
Post by: E3E on Mon, 03 October 2016, 18:27:59
Received mine last week; thanks for a smooth GB!

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/x3ydOrI.jpg)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/oKtNL66.jpg)


You know, I just weighed my Octagon v1, and it's not too far off from the 5.5lb weight. It's 5.2 lbs. If you have an aluminum plate though, that would explain it, otherwise I'd guess it's probably the integrated diffuser cut outs that take away weight.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Only US Orders shipped (except 1)
Post by: merlin64 on Wed, 05 October 2016, 09:41:54
UPDATE

I made it back from my trip! =)

I've shipped out all the US Stainless Steel orders. Hurray.

The brass plates are just about done, just need to find time to go and pick it up.

 I'm at the point where it might be faster just to have him mail it over. We are in talks.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Only US Orders shipped (except 1)
Post by: aaron6301 on Wed, 05 October 2016, 10:15:28
UPDATE

I made it back from my trip! =)

I've shipped out all the US Stainless Steel orders. Hurray.

The brass plates are just about done, just need to find time to go and pick it up.

 I'm at the point where it might be faster just to have him mail it over. We are in talks.

Thanks for the update, Merlin.

Sent you a PM a couple days about my order  :thumb:
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Only US Orders shipped (except 1)
Post by: Dreamre on Tue, 11 October 2016, 19:27:17
Hi OP, any updates? I ordered 2 SS blank plates and I'm just over in Canada.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Only US Orders shipped (except 1)
Post by: roostrc0gburn on Tue, 11 October 2016, 20:15:22
when do brass plates ship?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Only US Orders shipped (except 1)
Post by: merlin64 on Wed, 12 October 2016, 11:56:32
Update

Not much to report, awaiting shipping of package over to me.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Only US Orders shipped (except 1)
Post by: merlin64 on Thu, 20 October 2016, 09:12:44
UPDATE

Apparently the plates haven't been shipped yet. My manufacturer had some event he was involved in during the past week. Should be shipping today. Sorry guys.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Only US Orders shipped (except 1)
Post by: merlin64 on Thu, 27 October 2016, 20:41:48
UPDATE!!!

Brass Units are in!!!

There is light at the end of the tunnel! All the scratches and blemishes are gone! Each plate is now a lot more consistent than it was before. Unfortunately, because he didn't work off of pre-polished plates like the SS ones were, these aren't as shiny.

Now that I actually have ALL the plates in, I'm able to compare them with the SS, and the brass units are indeed just a smidgen heavier. its noticeable but not very much.

I had a few people email or ask me regarding making more of these plates for other Duck keyboards. I would be very interested in doing so. I've learned a lot, made lots of mistakes, and I am indeed hoping to learn from those. Once all units have been received and accounted for, I'll put up a GB post-mortem detailing a lot of these things.

Anyway, without further ado, PICTURES!!

[attach=1][attach=2][attach=3]
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Only US Orders shipped (except 1)
Post by: omgar on Thu, 27 October 2016, 20:44:04
UPDATE!!!

Brass Units are in!!!

There is light at the end of the tunnel! All the scratches and blemishes are gone! Each plate is now a lot more consistent than it was before. Unfortunately, because he didn't work off of pre-polished plates like the SS ones were, these aren't as shiny.

Now that I actually have ALL the plates in, I'm able to compare them with the SS, and the brass units are indeed just a smidgen heavier. its noticeable but not very much.

I had a few people email or ask me regarding making more of these plates for other Duck keyboards. I would be very interested in doing so. I've learned a lot, made lots of mistakes, and I am indeed hoping to learn from those. Once all units have been received and accounted for, I'll put up a GB post-mortem detailing a lot of these things.

Anyway, without further ado, PICTURES!!

(Attachment Link) (Attachment Link) (Attachment Link)


Wow that's pretty. Can't wait to get mine. Thanks for the update!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Only US Orders shipped (except 1)
Post by: mrboovn on Thu, 27 October 2016, 21:23:02
UPDATE!!!

Brass Units are in!!!

There is light at the end of the tunnel! All the scratches and blemishes are gone! Each plate is now a lot more consistent than it was before. Unfortunately, because he didn't work off of pre-polished plates like the SS ones were, these aren't as shiny.

Now that I actually have ALL the plates in, I'm able to compare them with the SS, and the brass units are indeed just a smidgen heavier. its noticeable but not very much.

I had a few people email or ask me regarding making more of these plates for other Duck keyboards. I would be very interested in doing so. I've learned a lot, made lots of mistakes, and I am indeed hoping to learn from those. Once all units have been received and accounted for, I'll put up a GB post-mortem detailing a lot of these things.

Anyway, without further ado, PICTURES!!

(Attachment Link) (Attachment Link) (Attachment Link)
wow really nice merlin  :thumb: :thumb: Thanks for all your hard work for this GB
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Only US Orders shipped (except 1)
Post by: boo on Fri, 28 October 2016, 00:00:34
so I noticed that my SS plates have  scratches when shined under a light. does the brass do too?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Only US Orders shipped (except 1)
Post by: ctrlX on Fri, 28 October 2016, 01:04:25
Dude. They look frigging awsome!! Well worth the wait. Thanks you!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Only US Orders shipped (except 1)
Post by: -musubi on Fri, 28 October 2016, 02:12:19
UPDATE!!!

Brass Units are in!!!

There is light at the end of the tunnel! All the scratches and blemishes are gone! Each plate is now a lot more consistent than it was before. Unfortunately, because he didn't work off of pre-polished plates like the SS ones were, these aren't as shiny.

Now that I actually have ALL the plates in, I'm able to compare them with the SS, and the brass units are indeed just a smidgen heavier. its noticeable but not very much.

I had a few people email or ask me regarding making more of these plates for other Duck keyboards. I would be very interested in doing so. I've learned a lot, made lots of mistakes, and I am indeed hoping to learn from those. Once all units have been received and accounted for, I'll put up a GB post-mortem detailing a lot of these things.

Anyway, without further ado, PICTURES!!

(Attachment Link) (Attachment Link) (Attachment Link)

Wow! These are sexy.... kinda want a brass and SS one hehe. Just kidding both look great!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Only US Orders shipped (except 1)
Post by: breitling on Fri, 28 October 2016, 02:23:52
they look more brushed than mirror but still looking awesome! im happy with either.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Only US Orders shipped (except 1)
Post by: merlin64 on Fri, 28 October 2016, 09:04:53
I don't think either of them are a true mirror finish, but the SS one is very close as we ordered pre-polished material. I'll state it out here that the brass does not look like the shiny mirror that Duck has posted on his sites. As people have informed me, a true mirror finish is quite an ordeal and would cost twice or thrice the purchase price of my units. Probably thrice because of US prices. The polishing is by far the major cause of the delay as the plates only took 1 week to 2 weeks to cut per material. SS takes longer as it is harder to machine. Looking at the cost of things, for those who bought the SS, they are getting a much higher quality unit than what they paid. The brass unit people are getting what they paid for.

Personally, I still prefer the brass as it looks good in my black base. The contrast really stands out especially with my silver screws in. I'll be sure to take my keyboard apart every weekend so I can look at it.

Here's a recap of the troubles in order

1. Brass Units came in first, very shiny but very scratched. Noticeable without bright lights. I could feel the scratches.
2. Requested better finishing on the already cut SS plates. Those were scrapped and new material (pre-polished) were ordered and then cut/polished
3. Brass Plates returned, SS plates received
4. SS plates shipped to US orders who only got SS. (+1 to someone in Canada  :p)
5. Brass Plates received
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Only US Orders shipped (except 1)
Post by: gaiden on Fri, 28 October 2016, 09:12:40
@Merlin64,

I feel like right now might be a good time to ask since this GB is pretty much concluded. Would you be in considering doing GB for the Black Bird? I'm sure there are many interested parties since it's between the batch right now.  :thumb:
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Only US Orders shipped (except 1)
Post by: omgar on Mon, 31 October 2016, 09:10:50
Received a shipping invoice earlier this past weekend. Thanks!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Only US Orders shipped (except 1)
Post by: Spopepro on Mon, 31 October 2016, 10:27:05
@Merlin64,

I feel like right now might be a good time to ask since this GB is pretty much concluded. Would you be in considering doing GB for the Black Bird? I'm sure there are many interested parties since it's between the batch right now.  :thumb:

I'm considering offering blackbird weights. I have to wait on getting my board to take measurements (I asked in the GB thread, but no one provided dimensions). They would not be polished. I'm considering cast bronze as a material. At the very least I'll do one for myself.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Only US Orders shipped (except 1)
Post by: AceRuckus on Mon, 31 October 2016, 10:39:05
Merlin, any SS extras?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Only US Orders shipped (except 1)
Post by: gaiden on Mon, 31 October 2016, 10:43:05
Merlin, any SS extras?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
To my knowledge he only made to match the number of orders with no extras

Sent from my SM-G935F using Tapatalk

Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Only US Orders shipped (except 1)
Post by: AceRuckus on Mon, 31 October 2016, 10:43:54
Merlin, any SS extras?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
To my knowledge he only made to match the number of orders with no extras

Sent from my SM-G935F using Tapatalk

someone sell me their weight insert


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Only US Orders shipped (except 1)
Post by: onmybikedrunk on Mon, 31 October 2016, 11:46:27
@Merlin64,

I feel like right now might be a good time to ask since this GB is pretty much concluded. Would you be in considering doing GB for the Black Bird? I'm sure there are many interested parties since it's between the batch right now.  :thumb:

I'm considering offering blackbird weights. I have to wait on getting my board to take measurements (I asked in the GB thread, but no one provided dimensions). They would not be polished. I'm considering cast bronze as a material. At the very least I'll do one for myself.


I can give you measurements!  I have digital calipers that have no batteries, I'll pick one up today and give you measurements sometime this week.  I can even send a CAD file if you want.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - SS Only US Orders shipped (except 1)
Post by: breitling on Mon, 31 October 2016, 18:22:54
I'm considering offering blackbird weights. I have to wait on getting my board to take measurements (I asked in the GB thread, but no one provided dimensions). They would not be polished. I'm considering cast bronze as a material. At the very least I'll do one for myself.

I would be in on the blackbird weights especially since the blackbird could use some extra weight.. I could measure it but I think a precise measurement from the CAD files or whatever they use is better than a ruler right?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Brass Has Arrived, shipping to commence
Post by: ctrlX on Tue, 01 November 2016, 02:01:46
So brass plates are yet to be shipped. Do you have a rough estimate when they might be shipped? Especially to EU members. Thanks.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Brass Has Arrived, shipping to commence
Post by: merlin64 on Wed, 02 November 2016, 09:13:55
International orders go after the US. I'm currently in the middle of shipping, trying to ship a few everyday and doing bigger chunks on the weekend.

Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Brass Has Arrived, shipping to commence
Post by: ctrlX on Wed, 02 November 2016, 11:48:05
Cool. Thanks for the info
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Brass Has Arrived, shipping to commence
Post by: tuco on Wed, 02 November 2016, 18:26:10
Got my brass insert today, it is awesome. Thanks again for all your efforts merlin64!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Brass Has Arrived, shipping to commence
Post by: kenshinjeff on Thu, 03 November 2016, 08:27:27
International orders go after the US. I'm currently in the middle of shipping, trying to ship a few everyday and doing bigger chunks on the weekend.

Could you drop me a note when you're shipping mine out? Tracking number would be greatly appreciated as well : D
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Brass Has Arrived, shipping to commence
Post by: merlin64 on Thu, 03 November 2016, 09:20:22
I'm invoicing people for shipping thru PayPal. Once I create the shipping label, you should get some sort of notification when that is done. I try my best to adhere to the ship date printed on the label.

By tomorrow I should have all the single order US Engraved Bras shipped out.

International orders go after the US. I'm currently in the middle of shipping, trying to ship a few everyday and doing bigger chunks on the weekend.

Could you drop me a note when you're shipping mine out? Tracking number would be greatly appreciated as well : D
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Brass Has Arrived, shipping to commence
Post by: omgar on Thu, 03 November 2016, 20:24:24
Thanks merlin! :thumb:

(https://i.imgur.com/Lvxwoss.jpg)
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Brass Has Arrived, shipping to commence
Post by: kenshinjeff on Thu, 03 November 2016, 22:32:54
I'm invoicing people for shipping thru PayPal. Once I create the shipping label, you should get some sort of notification when that is done. I try my best to adhere to the ship date printed on the label.

Thanks man! I got the notification via PP a few hours ago, much appreciated. Should be in for the Black Bird if you're gonna run it.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Brass Has Arrived, shipping to commence
Post by: beltet on Fri, 04 November 2016, 06:40:53
I have not got a notification for the shipping. I and ctrlx was supposed to combine shipping. Have you sent it to him?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Brass Has Arrived, shipping to commence
Post by: merlin64 on Fri, 04 November 2016, 08:29:10
That looks absolutely beautiful....maybe I should have gotten a silver base....but I won't see it on a day to day basis anyway.

Thanks merlin! :thumb:

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/Lvxwoss.jpg)

Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Brass Has Arrived, shipping to commence
Post by: merlin64 on Fri, 04 November 2016, 08:35:56
Orders are getting there. Please check the Order Status link to track my progress on shipments.

I realized that marking things as received only works when people actually tell me they received it haha. Consider SHIPPED/RECEIVED to be about the same thing.

I have not got a notification for the shipping. I and ctrlx was supposed to combine shipping. Have you sent it to him?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Brass Has Arrived, shipping to commence
Post by: merlin64 on Fri, 04 November 2016, 10:39:44
FYI for those who have inquired about the Duck Black Bird weight insert. I have an IC going for it. Please visit

https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=85641.0

for more info.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - Brass Has Arrived, shipping to commence
Post by: merlin64 on Mon, 07 November 2016, 13:43:38
UPDATE

Productive weekend! Almost all US orders packed/shipped. Only 2 are left to ship, waiting for invoices to be paid.

I'll be working on international orders this week!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - US Shipping just about done, Intl next!
Post by: chili14 on Mon, 07 November 2016, 15:20:08
Received my brass weight this afternoon and it looks great. Thanks again for running this group buy. Anything new on the switch top plate GB? Saw you have the IC for the blackbird weight so I thought I would ask.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - US Shipping just about done, Intl next!
Post by: merlin64 on Mon, 07 November 2016, 18:23:56
I must apologize to the latest group of people I shipped stuff to. I ran out of packing paper, so I ended up tearing apart my wife's women's fitness magazines that she was going to recycle. I apologize if any of the images depicted are offensive to anyone.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - US Shipping just about done, Intl next!
Post by: roostrc0gburn on Mon, 07 November 2016, 22:12:41
I must apologize to the latest group of people I shipped stuff to. I ran out of packing paper, so I ended up tearing apart my wife's women's fitness magazines that she was going to recycle. I apologize if any of the images depicted are offensive to anyone.

works for me. in fact, i was just about to pm you and specifically request women's fitness magazines as packing material.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - US Shipping just about done, Intl next!
Post by: ctrlX on Tue, 08 November 2016, 01:07:05
I must apologize to the latest group of people I shipped stuff to. I ran out of packing paper, so I ended up tearing apart my wife's women's fitness magazines that she was going to recycle. I apologize if any of the images depicted are offensive to anyone.
Hahaha!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - US Shipping just about done, Intl next!
Post by: SaySo on Wed, 09 November 2016, 12:51:22
.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - US Shipping just about done, Intl next!
Post by: SaySo on Wed, 09 November 2016, 13:20:00
.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - US Shipping just about done, Intl next!
Post by: AceRuckus on Wed, 09 November 2016, 13:20:14
Hi there,


I am selling my spot (Stanless steel non engraved).
If someone is interested before Merlin64 shipped it, please PM.


Cheers

Bought :)


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - US Shipping just about done, Intl next!
Post by: FactoryDefaults on Wed, 09 November 2016, 15:51:20
Anyone willing to sell their spot or already arrived stainless steel insert, I'm happy to buy it! Engraved or not doesn't really matter.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - US Shipping just about done, Intl next!
Post by: merlin64 on Thu, 10 November 2016, 11:52:11
UPDATE

US orders ALL shipped. Madly trying to pack the international orders so I can ship them out this Saturday.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - International Shipping Commencing
Post by: merlin64 on Sun, 13 November 2016, 10:36:21
UPDATE

Failed to ship out all the international orders. I was quite busy this week. However I did get all the Canadian orders out.

My goal for this week is to get all the remaining orders invoiced and get at least the European orders out.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - International Shipping Commencing
Post by: merlin64 on Tue, 15 November 2016, 09:42:13
UPDATE

All the remaining orders have been packed. Waiting on replies/payments/etc.

Meanwhile for you Orion owners..
https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=85723.0

and Black bird owners...
https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=85641.0
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - International Shipping Commencing
Post by: tuco on Sat, 19 November 2016, 15:26:07
I just got around to taking my board apart to install the plate, I "swore" I put the extra screws included with the board in a safe place so I could install the plate once it came. Sure enough, they are no where to be found. Does anyone know the specs on those screws?

Thanks!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - International Shipping Commencing
Post by: merlin64 on Tue, 22 November 2016, 16:42:05
tuco they are M2.5 6 mm. Though someone else mentioned 4 mm. You might want to measure the screws you currently have to be sure.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - International Shipping Commencing
Post by: tuco on Tue, 22 November 2016, 18:36:17
tuco they are M2.5 6 mm. Though someone else mentioned 4 mm. You might want to measure the screws you currently have to be sure.

Thanks merlin64!

Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - International Shipping Commencing
Post by: Pemdas on Wed, 23 November 2016, 07:28:36
(http://i.imgur.com/7Wq47Rl.jpg)

Installed a while ago but forgot to post, loving the extra weight! At some point I want to get an engraving done for it but it's really not a priority since it's hidden inside the case most of the time.

Thanks a ton merlin64 for the buy! Really ties the octagon together :thumb:
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - International Shipping Commencing
Post by: merlin64 on Tue, 29 November 2016, 13:08:44
UPDATE

So I've got almost everyone shipped out. Here's a public confession of what's taking so long.

I forgot to check flat rate shipping boxes when making the labels for ctrlx, beltet, and nguyenkimtam. So I voided the labels after they had paid, and I am currently waiting on PayPal to reimburse me the payments. My apologies to you guys. Your packages are all packed and ready to go, just a mess up on my part regarding the labels. Trying to resolve this soon.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - International Shipping Commencing
Post by: xauser on Thu, 01 December 2016, 13:44:36
Just received my plate, looks great. Thank You.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - International Shipping Commencing
Post by: merlin64 on Mon, 05 December 2016, 09:57:25
UPDATE

PayPal finally refunded me for my screw-up in mailing. I actually managed to talk with a real live person and they said "your refund will be processed within 24 hours". However, that wasn't the case..it still took about a week after that phone call lol.

So I should be able to mail out the packages for ctrlx, beltet, and nguyenkimtam. Sorry this has taken so long again guys.

For all you other people who haven't posted here whether you've received your package, please drop a note so I can mark you off. Thanks.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - International Shipping Commencing
Post by: merlin64 on Fri, 09 December 2016, 22:10:40
UPDATE

ALL ORDERS SHIPPED!! WOOHOOO. I did it before the end of the year!!
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - All Orders Shipped
Post by: kenshinjeff on Sat, 10 December 2016, 03:03:14
Thanks for the hard work : D

If anyone is interested in polishing their brass plates, I had some success with a toothbrush and toothpaste : D
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - All Orders Shipped
Post by: raymogi on Thu, 05 January 2017, 22:42:08
What screws are you guys using for this?

I bought some M2.5*6mm and it doesn't work :(
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - All Orders Shipped
Post by: merlin64 on Fri, 06 January 2017, 08:26:35
I believe the correct ones are 4 mm.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - All Orders Shipped
Post by: FactoryDefaults on Tue, 17 January 2017, 12:40:16
Still looking for a brass weight, either engraved or not that does not matter! PM me if you're willing to sell.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - All Orders Shipped
Post by: yookwh on Tue, 17 January 2017, 18:35:04
I'd also like to add that I'm looking to purchase a stainless steel one.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - All Orders Shipped
Post by: Dreamre on Tue, 17 January 2017, 19:24:11
What screws are you guys using for this?

I bought some M2.5*6mm and it doesn't work :(

Sticks out? Or does it not fit at all?
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - All Orders Shipped
Post by: raymogi on Tue, 17 January 2017, 19:39:59
What screws are you guys using for this?

I bought some M2.5*6mm and it doesn't work :(

Sticks out? Or does it not fit at all?

It's too small for the hole actually. I'm ordering some 3 mm screws to test.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - All Orders Shipped
Post by: merlin64 on Sun, 23 July 2017, 15:01:17
Hello everyone, I've waited a long time and I still haven't heard back. Nguyenkimtam ordered quite a few weights for me only to have them return, and him not answer me. I'm posting this here publicly to see if anyone can help me get ahold of him. Otherwise I'll have to start selling these as they really are taking up space in my home.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - All Orders Shipped
Post by: minhvo on Sun, 26 August 2018, 18:55:00
Hello everyone, I've waited a long time and I still haven't heard back. Nguyenkimtam ordered quite a few weights for me only to have them return, and him not answer me. I'm posting this here publicly to see if anyone can help me get ahold of him. Otherwise I'll have to start selling these as they really are taking up space in my home.
Hello, more than one year, wondering is it possible now to buy one brass? Thank you
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - All Orders Shipped
Post by: JubJubCity on Sun, 26 August 2018, 20:38:00
Hello everyone, I've waited a long time and I still haven't heard back. Nguyenkimtam ordered quite a few weights for me only to have them return, and him not answer me. I'm posting this here publicly to see if anyone can help me get ahold of him. Otherwise I'll have to start selling these as they really are taking up space in my home.
Hello, more than one year, wondering is it possible now to buy one brass? Thank you
A group buy just ran for new weights for Duck Keyboards, i would try checking that thread for extras.
Title: Re: [GB] Weight Insert for Octagon V2 - All Orders Shipped
Post by: Sshimosawa on Mon, 27 August 2018, 00:10:18
+1 if nobody claims the extras.