Guys.
Fwiw...we're still here.
Over the past couple of days, I've received emails about the Apex/Black Aurora poker chip cases. I wasn't sure where the interest was coming from. Then I found this thread: https://www.pokerchipforum.com/threads/unique-birdcage-storage.24895/page-2
Honestly, 10 minutes ago, I logged into my accounts to delete the Apex 1000 poker chip case project from the website and everywhere else, as well as issue refunds to everyone who pre-ordered during the fundraising campaign. Ready to throw in the towel on this, finally.
But, having read the above thread, it kills me--IT KILLS ME--that you guys are still paying this much for acrylic birdcage carriers. The Apex 400/600/800/1000 (and maybe even 1200, if you guys want?) would have cost wayyyy less. It's been a while since I ran the numbers in-depth, but $50-65 each and an order of around 300-500 would have done it, pretty easily, iirc. A big group buy, basically.
If you don't care who Aurora Poker Gear is, skip this paragraph: In the interest of transparency... This company is, basically, a one-man show. I don't make enough from poker chip sales to be able to afford or justify the $15,000+ on aluminum tooling, shop tools, warehouse space, shipping, etc. to gamble on the Apex project. I'm happily married. I love my wife and kids more than money or poker, and I make enough at my full-time job that I don't NEED to do anything with poker chips. I do it because I have a passion for it, designing poker chips beats working OT any day of the week, and it generates a Vegas budget for me and the wife every month or two. But, that said, if we could get enough momentum on this project, I'd be willing to move forward on it. No, I would LOVE to move forward on it.
I've still got an injection molding company lined up. Still got the design files. Still got the motivation. And the Apex still has the features list to put the other ones itt to shame:
1. Injection molded glass-filled nylon (Zytel) parts -- way stronger than acrylic.
2. Multiple poker chip capacities: 400, 600, 800, or 1000
3. Dealer button and card compartments built-in (Or not? PCF's call.)
4. Thicker, rounded handle, so it's not painful to carry 1,000 chips.
5. Poker chip rack stabilizers to keep chips steady during transport.
6. Rounded corners and rubber feet -- doesn't damage felt or wood surfaces, stays put during transport.
7. Quarter-inch thick acrylic case with beveled welded joints -- no need to cover up sloppy welding on the edges, like the other guys.
8. Much more stylish than the other guys.
If you're not sure what it is, you can check it out on aurorapokergear.com, but I've attached some pics to illustrate.
So, what do you guys need from me to make this happen?
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