[IC] Duck Black Bird Weight Insert - Decisions Made

[merlin64]

This is an interest check to gather information and gauge interest for a Duck Black Bird weight insert.

Special thanks to Jeu for pictures of the recess: https://imgur.com/a/U3Qqx

Special thanks to Duck for providing me the CAD file

Special thanks to alveeno for allow me to test fit on his black bird

Current Issues:
We do not have an engraving, we currently have three proposals


Proposed by Gaiden



Proposed by seblove


Proposed by Wodan, designed by aaron6301


Status

12/22/2016 - Decisions made
12/02/2016 - I need some questions answered, made a google poll. Please fill it out.
11/28/2016 - Prototype test fitted on alveeno's black bird.

[wodan]

I'm in.

[m1kehonch0]

As I said in the BB thread, once I get mine I'll get measurements for you.

I'm in for one for sure.

Logo : YES PLZ


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[Jeu]

I'd be interested in one


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[Waateva]

Oh hell yes

[gaiden]

Correct me if im wrong anyone but from the engraving look of last insert for Octagon v2 the plate would look much like the one on the bottom.

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[Butter]

Yes Yes Yes I need it!! I like the second design better. Not feeling the all black.

[Jokrik]

Will be interested in one
However need to justify the price on the engraving

Blackbird insert is different from Octagon, it's only on the inside so nothing can be seen from the outside unlike octagon

So it serves solely to add weight not aesthetic from outside the case

[merlin64]

Correct me if im wrong anyone but from the engraving look of last insert for Octagon v2 the plate would look much like the one on the bottom.

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That is correct!

[gaiden]

Will be interested in one
However need to justify the price on the engraving

Blackbird insert is different from Octagon, it's only on the inside so nothing can be seen from the outside unlike octagon

So it serves solely to add weight not aesthetic from outside the case

actually the insert style for Octagon V2 and Blackbird is the same. both on the inside and not underneath.

[merlin64]

Can someone who currently owns a black bird post a photo of the cavity here please? 2-3 angles would be great. Thank you.

[brighenne]

I'm in, probably non-engraved.

[yicaoyimu]

In for engraved.

[redbanshee]

Ill get one for sure

[SixtyLife]

probably in for engraved

[widdlekitty]

I'd be interested in a non-engraved plate.

[tuco]

I got a brass plate for my Octagon V2, and it is awesome, so I am definitely in for Black Bird version! I'd be fine with non-engraved.

[smittysteve]

Likely in for either. Thanks for getting this together for us.

[megaforce]

+1 for Stainless with engraving!

[merlin64]

I PMed Duck0113 to see if he had any files for me, hopefully he'll be willing to give them out =).

If not, the other option would be for someone to send me their Black Bird and I can have my manufacturer take the measurements they need.

[mrboovn]

I love you merlin 
Definitely in again 

[seblove]

I'm in for one as well! I don't know about you guys, but I personally would prefer something a little more distinguished? Something like these quick mockups would be awesome imo.

[SixtyLife]

I'm in for one as well! I don't know about you guys, but I personally would prefer something a little more distinguished? Something like these quick mockups would be awesome imo.

when I think of blackbird:

[oatsbagotes]

Interested

[gaiden]

I'm in for one as well! I don't know about you guys, but I personally would prefer something a little more distinguished? Something like these quick mockups would be awesome imo.

when I think of blackbird:

Show Image

i think of the same thing  :thumb:

  :eek:

[Jeu]

Here are the potato photos I could take, no better camera 
My crude measurements of the weight recess is 11 13/16" x 2 3/16" x 1/8", don't trust myself to get exact enough screw placement measurements.
https://imgur.com/a/U3Qqx

[SixtyLife]

I'm in for one as well! I don't know about you guys, but I personally would prefer something a little more distinguished? Something like these quick mockups would be awesome imo.

when I think of blackbird:

Show Image

i think of the same thing  :thumb:

Show Image

 

whoaaaa

[brighenne]

Here are the potato photos I could take, no better camera 
My crude measurements of the weight recess is 11 13/16" x 2 3/16" x 1/8", don't trust myself to get exact enough screw placement measurements.
https://imgur.com/a/U3Qqx

I think you'd need to measure in metric to be more accurate. I'd wager that the depth is 3mm like the octagon.

[breitling]

i'm in. either, but prefer engraved.

[m1kehonch0]

I'm in for one as well! I don't know about you guys, but I personally would prefer something a little more distinguished? Something like these quick mockups would be awesome imo.

when I think of blackbird:

Show Image

100% agree. The SR71 is the ONLY Blackbird!


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[Mr_BeastQuake]

Interested. Will there be a brass?

[Jeu]

Here are the potato photos I could take, no better camera 
My crude measurements of the weight recess is 11 13/16" x 2 3/16" x 1/8", don't trust myself to get exact enough screw placement measurements.
https://imgur.com/a/U3Qqx

I think you'd need to measure in metric to be more accurate. I'd wager that the depth is 3mm like the octagon.

Yeah I mean 1/8" is 3.1 mm so your probably right. I did say crude not exact but should give a ballpark. Don't have anything precise enough to help much more. Trusty tape measure.


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[merlin64]

Thanks Jeu, I've posted your estimates and photos in the OP. Would be great if someone could verify it.

I wasn't aware of the 6 screw holes.

Can anyone with an Octagon V2 confirm that the screws used to affix the Octagon V2 weight, are the same screws for the Black Bird weight, if I know that we can atleast know the size of the hole.

[merlin64]

No further responses regarding CAD files, but many offers of measuring their crevices were PMed this weekend.

I do have a CAD files for the Duck Orion keyboard though, so if this falls through, I might just do that instead lol.

[Mr_BeastQuake]

No further responses regarding CAD files, but many offers of measuring their crevices were PMed this weekend.

I do have a CAD files for the Duck Orion keyboard though, so if this falls through, I might just do that instead lol.

How long would you need the board for? I'm in class until Thanksgiving but live in South sound

[merlin64]

1-2 weeks minimum. We would still have to do the mockup, but I think if my manufacturer has to do the legwork, it might be more expensive for everyone. So really a CAD file is ideal.

I really have no clue how to measure the crevice (I also don't have a black bird), so I don't know what measurements are needed to come up with a good mock up.

[alveeno]

Hey there. I'd be down for a weight insert, also I live in WA and am in Round 2, wouldn't mind testing fits. Once my BB comes I can try to measure as well.

[Mr_BeastQuake]

1-2 weeks minimum. We would still have to do the mockup, but I think if my manufacturer has to do the legwork, it might be more expensive for everyone. So really a CAD file is ideal.

I really have no clue how to measure the crevice (I also don't have a black bird), so I don't know what measurements are needed to come up with a good mock up.

Ah, OK. I'd be a little nervous leaving it with a machine shop and I don't know how to make a CAD file either. See where things stand when it comes time.

[raymogi]

Have yet to receive my Octagon insert but I'm definitely interested in this one as well.

[merlin64]

UPDATE

I got a reply from Duck last night asking for my email address. Let's hope that's for sending me a CAD file. =).

[gaiden]

i could try and make a cad file but i dont have experience on the screw fitment parts and i dont know how precise i will get the measurements in general

Woot!

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[kawasaki161]

UPDATE

I got a reply from Duck last night asking for my email address. Let's hope that's for sending me a CAD file. =).

inb4 you got rickrolled

[merlin64]

UPDATE

.dwg file received from Duck. It's basically just a plain plate, so I'll still have to deal with putting the design on it. Either way, that is PROGRESS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Next step is to make prototype and test fit.

[gaiden]

UPDATE

.dwg file received from Duck. It's basically just a plain plate, so I'll still have to deal with putting the design on it. Either way, that is PROGRESS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Next step is to make prototype and test fit.

Good to hear about the update! Did you get the link i sent earlier? Hioe everything works. Will be keeping an eye out for progress

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[merlin64]

I'm looking for volunteers to help me test fit. Ideally you would be in WA state in the United States and my next door neighbor. =). lol.

I live in Seattle, so if you are close by and have a black bird, and don't mind taking photos and meeting up, I'd love to have you PM me. I don't expect anything on my end for at least two weeks, given the holidays and all, and I don't expect anyone to give that up for me either.

If people are close by enough we could even do a mini black bird meetup lol. I'd be the only odd one out.

[redbanshee]

I'm looking for volunteers to help me test fit. Ideally you would be in WA state in the United States and my next door neighbor. =). lol.

I live in Seattle, so if you are close by and have a black bird, and don't mind taking photos and meeting up, I'd love to have you PM me. I don't expect anything on my end for at least two weeks, given the holidays and all, and I don't expect anyone to give that up for me either.

If people are close by enough we could even do a mini black bird meetup lol. I'd be the only odd one out.

If you cant find anyone, im in CO and willing to cover shipping if you want

[Mr_BeastQuake]

I'm looking for volunteers to help me test fit. Ideally you would be in WA state in the United States and my next door neighbor. =). lol.

I live in Seattle, so if you are close by and have a black bird, and don't mind taking photos and meeting up, I'd love to have you PM me. I don't expect anything on my end for at least two weeks, given the holidays and all, and I don't expect anyone to give that up for me either.

If people are close by enough we could even do a mini black bird meetup lol. I'd be the only odd one out.

In class until the 16th, then again starting on Jan. 8th. My BB will be with me in the South Sound and available for meet up otherwise.

[Jokrik]

Will be looking forward for this!

[Atredl]

I don't have a Blackbird (yet) but I'm very interested in this GB. I would personally like the top engraving design. I think the more minimal design looks better.

[merlin64]

Thank you to everyone who has replied, or PMed regarding letting me test fit the plate.

Currently Alveeno is the closest to me. So I will probably go with him. Thanks Alveeno!

[merlin64]

UPDATE

Prototype came in, and not only that, alveeno was generous with his time to meet up and allow me to test fit the prototype in his freshly built black bird. Thank you very much alveeno. He also notified me of another Seattle meetup happening possibly in January =).  FYI, the prototype was made of scrap metal from the shop. So here goes

Fit:
The insert fit perfectly. It is to be expected as it is a CAD file from Duck.

Fastening:
From my meetup with alveeno, it seems like there were no additional screws provided. However, the correct screws would be the shorter ones. Perhaps alveeno can chime in about this. Regardless, the heads all matched just fine.

Weight:
The prototype material is steel, so should be similar in weight to the final products (stainless steel/brass). The prototype clocked in at around 13-14 oz (.36-.39) kg. Not very heavy I know. If weight really is an issue, the only options would probably be tungsten, silver, gold, lead, or depleted uranium. If people have the cash, I'm more than willing to craft this in those exotic materials lol.

Pictures:

Here's what it looks like inside the crevice


Here are the two screws mentioned. The smaller one is the correct one


This is what happens when you try to screw them in. Guess which one was the longer one


Side shot


The other side. I believe due to it being a prototype, its not as flat. also its not quite screwed in

[smittysteve]

Guys, this looks great!! Appreciate merlin and Alveeno doing so much leg work on this.

With the prototype in hand, when do you think we can kindly give you come coin to head for a production run? 

[merlin64]

I am open to receive coin at any time, and in any amount =)

Right now I'm deciding if I want the engraving done. I personally like the 2nd option the best...but I'm not vested in this as I do not own a black bird. I realize that the scale that gaiden had his design on is not quite accurate. I've asked him to re-do his design at his earliest convenience perhaps that will make me more open to engraving. I haven't heard very much regarding if people really want the engraving or not (it is more expensive).

[gaiden]

I am open to receive coin at any time, and in any amount =)

Right now I'm deciding if I want the engraving done. I personally like the 2nd option the best...but I'm not vested in this as I do not own a black bird. I realize that the scale that gaiden had his design on is not quite accurate. I've asked him to re-do his design at his earliest convenience perhaps that will make me more open to engraving. I haven't heard very much regarding if people really want the engraving or not (it is more expensive).

Thanks for the detailed update Merlin, as discussed earlier i will definitely get on it once i return from my trip this weekend.

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[alveeno]

Alright, I got home and checked, no extra screws from Duck so we will indeed have to find some screws.

[smittysteve]

Done and done. Coin headed your way. Old west style- in a drawstring bag. 

And I would vote for engraved but will buy either way.

[Waateva]

I am probably in either way, but my order of preference would be:

1. Non-engraved SS
2. First engraved version SS (gaiden)
3. Second engraved version SS (seblove)

[Shados]

I'm interested, don't have a huge preference on the engraving front, depends on the cost difference.

[Jokrik]

I am totally in for any
Thx for the hard work

[Jeu]

How expensive-ish are we talking engraved vs non? I like the simple one over the actual bird. But a clean brass containing non engraved insert would look schmexy as well.

[Mr_BeastQuake]

I like the outlined lettering for engraving but that preference is largely dependent on cost of engraved vs non. Still interested in brass too!

[merlin64]

So the Octagon V2 GB was a learning experience for both me and my manufacturer. We sold the blanks at cost for $40, and the engraved for $45. It's going to be more than that, now that we know what it takes for a mirror finish. Prices haven't been determined yet. I also didn't anticipate how much work it was going to be, my wife suggests I charge a small fee for my labor this time around. I'm unsure if I want to do that because I'd hate for someone to back out just because I wanted to earn a few bucks. Maybe I'll just do an option for donation that way I'm not pressuring anyone. But like to encourage donation, do something like a raffle. Something like "for everyone who donates $X, you get entered for a chance to win something cool. Don't know yet.

[-musubi]

So the Octagon V2 GB was a learning experience for both me and my manufacturer. We sold the blanks at cost for $40, and the engraved for $45. It's going to be more than that, now that we know what it takes for a mirror finish. Prices haven't been determined yet. I also didn't anticipate how much work it was going to be, my wife suggests I charge a small fee for my labor this time around. I'm unsure if I want to do that because I'd hate for someone to back out just because I wanted to earn a few bucks. Maybe I'll just do an option for donation that way I'm not pressuring anyone. But like to encourage donation, do something like a raffle. Something like "for everyone who donates $X, you get entered for a chance to win something cool. Don't know yet.

If I were you, I would just include the fee into the final price. If people are already spending extra for a piece of metal to put in their keyboard (come on, we all know that's as "extra"as it can get), then they can spend $5-$10 (maybe not too much though depending on how much it really costs in the end) more for a one time thing . Just my two-cents haha. Plus organizing and shipping things is definitely not the most fun/easiest thing to do.

However since I do not have an Orion and won't be participating, I can't say too much. But as a participant in the Octagon weight buy, I would have gladly been accommodating.

[Mr_BeastQuake]

I mean, we buying you a yacht? I don't see anything wrong with compensation. If we are spending $XX dollars on a weight for a $400 keyboard I believe most of us can afford to say thank you with some cash. Especially since I would hope that you would continue creating these weights for future Duck boards.

[kenshinjeff]

So the Octagon V2 GB was a learning experience for both me and my manufacturer. We sold the blanks at cost for $40, and the engraved for $45. It's going to be more than that, now that we know what it takes for a mirror finish. Prices haven't been determined yet. I also didn't anticipate how much work it was going to be, my wife suggests I charge a small fee for my labor this time around. I'm unsure if I want to do that because I'd hate for someone to back out just because I wanted to earn a few bucks. Maybe I'll just do an option for donation that way I'm not pressuring anyone. But like to encourage donation, do something like a raffle. Something like "for everyone who donates $X, you get entered for a chance to win something cool. Don't know yet.

It is my opinion that your time is as valuable as the rest of ours. I wouldn't mind paying more. That being said, do you think it would be possible for this time's finishing be smoother? For the previous batch of Blackbird brass weights I felt that it was quite rough.

[alveeno]

Don't be afraid to charge a small fee as compensation for your time.

[merlin64]

So the Octagon V2 GB was a learning experience for both me and my manufacturer. We sold the blanks at cost for $40, and the engraved for $45. It's going to be more than that, now that we know what it takes for a mirror finish. Prices haven't been determined yet. I also didn't anticipate how much work it was going to be, my wife suggests I charge a small fee for my labor this time around. I'm unsure if I want to do that because I'd hate for someone to back out just because I wanted to earn a few bucks. Maybe I'll just do an option for donation that way I'm not pressuring anyone. But like to encourage donation, do something like a raffle. Something like "for everyone who donates $X, you get entered for a chance to win something cool. Don't know yet.

It is my opinion that your time is as valuable as the rest of ours. I wouldn't mind paying more. That being said, do you think it would be possible for this time's finishing be smoother? For the previous batch of Blackbird brass weights I felt that it was quite rough.

The first round (Octagon V2) was a big learning experience for both me and my manufacturer. The SS plates were significantly nicer than the brass ones. We now know what to do to make this a great product.

[merlin64]

For those of you PMing me and wondering why this isn't in GB and why you can't throw money at me yet..

1. I have asked Gaiden to redo his design as its not proportional to how the plate actually is. It looks really good the way he has it but I'm just not seeing it with reality. I'm actually highly leaning towards just doing blank plates.

2. I am also doing an IC/GB for the Duck Orion V2. I'd like to run both together and make just one form that people can sign up on. This also saves costs in materials if I can submit one large order. I didn't find anyone nearby for the Orion so I had to ship it out to E3E. It should arrive at his doorstep next week and he'll report back to me soon after. I'm not seeing as much interest in the Orion as I am with the Black Bird, so in reality I think the Orion buyers will see a majority of the cost savings of buying in bulk. Though I'm sure any news of an Orion V3 may radically change this.

Thank you for everyone's patience with this matter.

[gaiden]

I will get on the redesign as soon as possibly tomorrow. Replying while waiting for a flight to get home 😂

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[Jeu]

All is understandable Merlin! Sounds good.  Something like this, cutting costs for you in production and also being compensated for your time and access that we would not have as easily otherwise is all extremely reasonable :nod:

I'd also propose a small engraving of a blackbird (animal or aircraft) outline just as a flair than a giant engraving. 2"x2" tops on a bottom off center edge. 

[wodan]

I have asked aaron6301 to help us with a design proposal for the engraving. He has dropped some jaws over at the X60 thread with his design and was kind enough do make one for use blackbirds

Here's the weight design from aaron6301:

[smittysteve]

Wow- that's sick!! Thanks wodan and aaron6301. Love the X60 design too by the way.

[merlin64]

Thanks guys, I've updated the first post to reflect this proposal. Now if only someone would go over to my Orion thread and make a proposal as well. lolz

[merlin64]

Gaiden has updated his design to be more accurate to the weight dimension. Thanks Gaiden!!!

[merlin64]

Hey guys, I put up a poll just so I can get some answers for things. Please fill out at your earliest convenience

https://goo.gl/forms/EvG2LSjJCKhlIkaz1

[m1kehonch0]

I know I'm late to the party regarding this but:
1. I can get you a CAD file if you give me a week.
2. Can't we do an SR71 type design (Ive attached a good starting point)





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[gaiden]

I know I'm late to the party regarding this but:
1. I can get you a CAD file if you give me a week.
2. Can't we do an SR71 type design (Ive attached a good starting point)

Show Image

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If someone can get some confirmation from the maker about what this keyboard was named after then i am for whatever that is :) i assumed it was named after the plane but there was no confirmation.

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[merlin64]

I actually think that jet design is too busy.

[Jeu]

I actually think that jet design is too busy.

as is i think so too. If it was just the outline that could work, but I LOVE wodan's design. slick and reminiscent of space and aircraft sleekness to me at least.

[merlin64]

Its funny, a few people have already mentioned tungsten as an additional material. It's about 2-3 times as dense as steel. I wonder how much that would even cost or if my manufacturer has the tools to properly cut it.

[gaiden]

Its funny, a few people have already mentioned tungsten as an additional material. It's about 2-3 times as dense as steel. I wonder how much that would even cost or if my manufacturer has the tools to properly cut it.

Shoot let's just do lead 😁

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[smittysteve]

As one of the mentioners, tungsten is so neat. There was a kickstarter I backed for a tungsten desk piece (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1014603694/forge-solid-denser-than-solid-uranium).

From notes along the way in that project, I think it's pretty tough to work well. Probably too much $ too, but man, that would make a tank of a Blackbird!!

[brighenne]

Tungsten crew checking in.

I know this is a pipe dream, haha.

Its funny, a few people have already mentioned tungsten as an additional material. It's about 2-3 times as dense as steel. I wonder how much that would even cost or if my manufacturer has the tools to properly cut it.

Shoot let's just do lead 

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Tungsten is significantly denser than lead!

[gaiden]

Tungsten crew checking in.

I know this is a pipe dream, haha.

Its funny, a few people have already mentioned tungsten as an additional material. It's about 2-3 times as dense as steel. I wonder how much that would even cost or if my manufacturer has the tools to properly cut it.

Shoot let's just do lead 

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Tungsten is significantly denser than lead!

It was a joke, but I have no doubt tungsten would cost more if not a lot more

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[merlin64]

Who put in plutonium??? hahahhaa!

If anyone really wants one made out of tungsten or some other uncommon material I'd be happy to make it happen if they got the funds to back it!

[merlin64]

It would be about 28 oz. Based on my quick Google fu, the cost for material alone is about 60 USD.

[gaiden]

Ouch

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[smittysteve]

It would be about 28 oz. Based on my quick Google fu, the cost for material alone is about 60 USD.

Spendy... but since when isn't this delightful (%#*!ing) hobby black hole-ing our wallets??

What would machining and a little something, you know, for the effort (Caddyshack anyone...?) make this bad boy? 120?

More seriously, how is the interest level here and on the Orion? When might you be looking to move forward?

Thanks again- looking forward to this!

[merlin64]

I'm waiting for E3E to receive my Orion plate and test fit. I plan to open the GB for both weights at the same time, so as to save money on the material buying.

Meanwhile I'm gathering info on weight engravings, and other administrative kind of stuff.

[smittysteve]

I'm waiting for E3E to receive my Orion plate and test fit. I plan to open the GB for both weights at the same time, so as to save money on the material buying.

Meanwhile I'm gathering info on weight engravings, and other administrative kind of stuff.

Awesome- you rock, merlin!

[PerniciousPony]

Tungsten is the dream, but probably far too expensive.  I'd personally love a weight made of pure copper.

[merlin64]

If people are willing to shell out the cash, I'm sure I can make some arrangements for one offs. Just be advised it won't be cheap. $150 is probably the low end for tungsten stuff. However because its tungsten, its resale value would probably be higher than the peasant grade brass and stainless steel inserts. LOL.

[wodan]

Can I get the plutonium then?

[gaiden]

Forget that i want a slab of sapphire ring me up please 😂

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[merlin64]

Can I get the plutonium then?

LOL, I might die before I finish packing it haha.

[PerniciousPony]

If people are willing to shell out the cash, I'm sure I can make some arrangements for one offs. Just be advised it won't be cheap. $150 is probably the low end for tungsten stuff. However because its tungsten, its resale value would probably be higher than the peasant grade brass and stainless steel inserts. LOL.

Would the tungsten price go down at all with volume, would a one-off tungsten cost more than say a batch of 10 tungsten?  I know the material cost is quite high with tungsten, so it wouldn't go down much if at all.

[m1kehonch0]

If people are willing to shell out the cash, I'm sure I can make some arrangements for one offs. Just be advised it won't be cheap. $150 is probably the low end for tungsten stuff. However because its tungsten, its resale value would probably be higher than the peasant grade brass and stainless steel inserts. LOL.

Would the tungsten price go down at all with volume, would a one-off tungsten cost more than say a batch of 10 tungsten?  I know the material cost is quite high with tungsten, so it wouldn't go down much if at all.

I'm guessing the cost factors for the tungsten are the material and shipping. If I'm not mistaken, machining it would probably cost more, too, as I think you need special inserts in your cutting heads to mill it in a machine.

Either way, if you do a tungsten one and can engrave it in a way to differentiate it from the others, put me down for one for sure.


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[gaiden]

Tungsten is very hard so the tooling cost might be higher as well but i would imagine the end result would be amazing

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[Shados]

If tungsten can be done for less than $200 or so I probably am interested. I'm already doing stupid expensive stuff, might as well continue unabated.

[smittysteve]

I knew I liked you guys for good reason. I like the way y'all think. Highly likely I'd be in for some W too.

[merlin64]

LOL you guys are funny....and have too much money.

[Atredl]

Count me in with that Wolfram insert interest.

[gnarlsagan]

So I haven't drawn anything up, but I think it would be amazing to have a small minimalistic topview Blackbird jet outline in the bottom right corner or something similar. That way the insert would be basically blank, but would have a small badass design (or logo really) to give it just enough character without being gaudy.

[merlin64]

Alright for those of you with deep pockets and exotic taste

To make it worthwhile for my manufacturer we would need to get

12 tungsten plates at roughly $500 each

Other exotic material and their prices are

12 molybdenum plates at around $350 each

12 titanium plates at around $150 each

12 carbon fiber plates at around $100 each

12 platinum plates at around $6000 each LOL!!!!

Keep in mind these are all initial estimates

[gaiden]

I vote for plat. That's got to be it! End game weight right here boys

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[smittysteve]

I vote for plat. That's got to be it! End game weight right here boys

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Platinum it is then!

So... with that in mind... Brass sure is nice!

[SixtyLife]

Alright for those of you with deep pockets and exotic taste

To make it worthwhile for my manufacturer we would need to get

12 tungsten plates at roughly $500 each

Other exotic material and their prices are

12 molybdenum plates at around $350 each

12 titanium plates at around $150 each

12 carbon fiber plates at around $100 each

12 platinum plates at around $6000 each LOL!!!!

Keep in mind these are all initial estimates

isn't plat like $1000 per ounce? plat plate for $6000 sounds like a steal...

[merlin64]

Alright guys, I think the GB will start soon

Design:
It was pretty much even between Gaiden and Wodan. I'm just going to make an executive decision here and go with Gaiden as he's been fun getting to know and is quite responsive in all my questions. He even designed an Orion engraving for me without my prompting. Besides its quite similar to the Octagon V2 which I personally like.

Costs:

As I thought things are more expensive than the Octagon V2 weight. That weight was a learning process and both me and my manufacturer learned a lot through several mistakes. This time we're pros. =)

The cost for both Orion and Octagon will be the same. Using the Octagon V2 sales as a basis if about 50 orion and 50 octagon plates are sold with an even mix of SS and Brass, the pricing will be as follows:

Brass: $60
Engraved Brass: $70

SS: $45
Engraved SS: $55

The big change is that these are all going to be mirror finish from the start. What happened with the Octagon is that they weren't mirror finish....so the cost was $40 for blanks, and $45 for engraved. The end result was that the SS came actually mirror finish, and the brass was almost there.

Rich People Stuff
For those requesting exotic materials. I think you better have at least $500 ready to hand over. The prices I quoted a few posts back were for 12 people but my manufacturer is willing to work with you as long as you are willing to pay. I'm hoping some of you actually go through with this as having a weight made out of tungsten would be pretty sexy and many years from now, you would be able to pass it off to your grand kids as a family heirloom, even if keyboards have "evolved".

Screws
I am still continuing my search for screws, either way I won't be charging for this until it comes shipping time. This way it helps mitigate some of the costs and gives me more time to go searching

[gaiden]

Alright guys, I think the GB will start soon

Design:
It was pretty much even between Gaiden and Wodan. I'm just going to make an executive decision here and go with Gaiden as he's been fun getting to know and is quite responsive in all my questions. He even designed an Orion engraving for me without my prompting. Besides its quite similar to the Octagon V2 which I personally like.

Costs:

As I thought things are more expensive than the Octagon V2 weight. That weight was a learning process and both me and my manufacturer learned a lot through several mistakes. This time we're pros. =)

The cost for both Orion and Octagon will be the same. Using the Octagon V2 sales as a basis if about 50 orion and 50 octagon plates are sold with an even mix of SS and Brass, the pricing will be as follows:

Brass: $60
Engraved Brass: $70

SS: $45
Engraved SS: $55

The big change is that these are all going to be mirror finish from the start. What happened with the Octagon is that they weren't mirror finish....so the cost was $40 for blanks, and $45 for engraved. The end result was that the SS came actually mirror finish, and the brass was almost there.

Rich People Stuff
For those requesting exotic materials. I think you better have at least $500 ready to hand over. The prices I quoted a few posts back were for 12 people but my manufacturer is willing to work with you as long as you are willing to pay. I'm hoping some of you actually go through with this as having a weight made out of tungsten would be pretty sexy and many years from now, you would be able to pass it off to your grand kids as a family heirloom, even if keyboards have "evolved".

Screws
I am still continuing my search for screws, either way I won't be charging for this until it comes shipping time. This way it helps mitigate some of the costs and gives me more time to go searching

This is exciting! And thanks for the vote of confidence Merlin. I will try my best to give back to the community the only way i know how.

That said i am still deciding between SS and Plat right now slightly leaning towards SS.. 

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[Mr_BeastQuake]

do you mean have 500 between all of us? i could consider that, im still interested. if the final price fell below 150 i'd be pretty down.

as far as everything else goes tho, you can for sure could me in for an engraved brass. looks pretty cute

Seriously doubt he means $500 combined considering prices were $150 for the valuable metals if 12 or more got in
 Believe he means $500 apiece since he doesn't believe there will be 12 people interested in a specific metal other than bronze or SS.

As for me, probably getting a bronze maybe SS. Those prices are no problem, just depends on aesthetics now.

[m1kehonch0]

Engraved brass for me! The Tungsten sounded cool but $500 is a bit rich for my taste. Thanks for humoring us, Merlin.


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[merlin64]

Just to clarify if less than 12 people, you better have $500 each at the minimum for any of the exotic materials.

[nevaenuf]

I am in for the brass engraved insert.

[gaiden]

Merlin let us know when you have a form to fill and i will fill it. Happy Holidays guys 🎄

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[hervuli]

Just to clarify if less than 12 people, you better have $500 each at the minimum for any of the exotic materials.

yeah... seems like a hassle the more i think about it. i think there are only 3-4 of us really interested as is.

Add one more, though I'd be interested in the Orion one, not the Black Bird... so not sure if that helps or makes it more complicated.

[Jeu]

In for brass. If it's possible to get wodan/Aaron design instead then engraved. Else plain.


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[PerniciousPony]

I really wanted tungsten to happen but alas, it's too rich for my blood.  I'm down for engraved brass though!

[smittysteve]

I really wanted tungsten to happen but alas, it's too rich for my blood.  I'm down for engraved brass though!

Ditto this. Tungsten dreaming was fun- thanks to Merlin for endulging us... Engraved brass it shall be. 

[merlin64]

Happy New Year Guys!

Just submitted the GB for moderator approval

[Waateva]

Happy New Year Guys!

Just submitted the GB for moderator approval

So should we get the hype train ready to roll out?

[smittysteve]

Happy New Year Guys!

Just submitted the GB for moderator approval

Happy New Year, Merlin. Great news, thanks for wrangling it together for us!

[kconfire]

Is anybody selling Blackbird weights or can I still participate in this?

[Waateva]

Is anybody selling Blackbird weights or can I still participate in this?

Merlin64 has a Groupbuy thread open for weights and has already invoiced people for them, but I don't know if he is taking more orders or not.  Below is the GB thread but maybe shoot him a PM to see if he would still accept an order or not.

https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=86707.0

[kconfire]

Anyone going for Titanium or Tungsten for an exotic piece? lol

[kconfire]

Is anybody selling Blackbird weights or can I still participate in this?

Merlin64 has a Groupbuy thread open for weights and has already invoiced people for them, but I don't know if he is taking more orders or not.  Below is the GB thread but maybe shoot him a PM to see if he would still accept an order or not.

https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=86707.0

Thanks, I got in touch with merlin64