A little help in Golden, please?

[BigTexasOne]

Thank You for allowing me to join your group, We live in Lantana, TX, a suburb of the DFW metromess, and vacation in a condo in Winter Park.

The reason I am here:

I sent a HiPower to Michael J Tulowitzki, know as MJ Yulo Gunmakers in April of last year for color case hardening and some other work. He estimated 6 weeks time, and in May I paid for his services. Starting in September, I have been repeatedly promised that the gun would be shipped back to me, next week, in a few days, Wednesday, and On January 9th, MJ promised to ship it "tomorrow" saying that it was packed and ready to go!

Since that Tuesday, January 9th, I have not received my pistol, nor have I been able to get a return phone call, a return text, or a return email. No contact from MJ at all!

Does anyone live near, or work near Golden, and could they go by his shop and see if there's any sign or indication as to why I can't get any response.I wonder if there's a sign on the door, or is the shop gone? He also has not posted to his facebook page since November.

MJ Tulo Gunmakers
Corporate Circle Suite C
Golden, Co. 80401

720-207-8080

Thank You for any help, or information.

BigTexasOne

Leslie V Leslie
Lantana, TX

[20X11]

Tulowitzki?...as in the former Colorado Rockies baseball player?

[Jeffrey Lebowski]

You don’t have a number address for Corporate Circle?

[chuckchili]

Google shows a Lakewood address, 9797 Colfax Avenue #3WW and 720-921-5126 as the number. Not sure which is the newer location. I can check them both this weekend if no one else can sooner.

[ray1970]

I would hope the OP has some sort of resolution by now since he posted it over a year and a half ago.

[ray1970]

I would hope the OP has some sort of resolution by now since he posted it over a year and a half ago.

Umm. That was weird. After my reply it now says he posted about twenty minutes ago. Sorry.

[BigTexasOne]

SORRY!

Tulowitzki as in, no, not an athlete....

I thought I had typed in the address.. 420 Corporate Circle

The Colfax address is his old shop, He moved sometime around October, I think.

Thanks for anything you can do or find..........

Leslie

[TFOGGER]

My shop is close to there, I can check it out tomorrow morning on the way in to work.

[opie011]

Looks like TFOG has got you covered but I'll watch this thread as I'll be in that exact area Friday.

[BigTexasOne]

To make it clear, I do not suspect, in any way, that MJ is perpetrating any kind of fraud or deceit. I am concerned that maybe some circumstance has taken over and his focus is not on his shop, or he's been forced to close, or he's had family issues, or illness,,,,,,,,,,,I don't know

[Skip]

Umm. That was weird. After my reply it now says he posted about twenty minutes ago. Sorry.

Next time you're in the future can you get the PowerBall numbers for us?

[Skip]

Here's hoping this gets amicably resolved for both parties and the high power gets returned. It would be unfortunate to have another circumstance such as where Les Fletcher, of Plano Texas apparently ripped somebody off. https://www.ar-15.co/threads/96645-Les-Fletcher-of-Plano-TX-ripped-me-off-on-Armslist-need-ideas?highlight=Fletcher

[ROFL2]

First thing that came to mind!

---

CO SOS has the business filing with home address...

http://www.sos.state.co.us/biz/ViewImage.do?fileId=20171774889&masterFileId=20171774889


This was just filed in Oct 2017.

If the business is closed/closing you could send a certified letter and demand return of the pistol.

I don't see "MJ Yulo" or "Tulowitzki" in the CO listings of FFLs from BATF for Dec 2017 (the latest period available).

[Gman]

I was just happy to find that no chainsaws were borrowed and not promptly returned.

[TFOGGER]

I stopped by this morning, this sign was in the window (sorry for the crap pic):
73575

ETA: Could not see inside, as all the shades were drawn. I was not able to tell if there had been anyone there in the last day, as the walks were all shoveled clean.

[BigTexasOne]

I stopped by this morning, this sign was in the window (sorry for the crap pic):
73575

ETA: Could not see inside, as all the shades were drawn. I was not able to tell if there had been anyone there in the last day, as the walks were all shoveled clean.Thank you. This along with another members accessing his home address have given me a new avenue to pursue him. I will be sending him a certified, signature required letter demanding performance or,,,,,,,,,,, and I'll mail it tomorrow.

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[SouthPaw]

Stuff like this scares me...

[MED]

Back in 1992 I think, I lost a Dan Wesson 357 and my friend a pre '64 win 30-30 to a gunsmith/dealer who left town...hope it works out for you. Get it resolved ASAP...the more time that passes the less likely you'll see it again.

[def90]

Here's hoping this gets amicably resolved for both parties and the high power gets returned. It would be unfortunate to have another circumstance such as where Les Fletcher, of Plano Texas apparently ripped somebody off. https://www.ar-15.co/threads/96645-Les-Fletcher-of-Plano-TX-ripped-me-off-on-Armslist-need-ideas?highlight=Fletcher

LMAO.. I googled Les Fletcher Plano TX and that thread is the first return.. :D

[CS1983]

LMAO.. I googled Les Fletcher Plano TX and that thread is the first return.. :D

That was the idea.

[MrPrena]

I was just happy to find that no chainsaws were borrowed and not promptly returned.

Few years back, the same guy was asking member at other forum to borrow power generator.

[O2HeN2]

My gawd, I had forgotten completely about Les Fletcher of Plano Texas trying to rip off one of our community. I went back and read the entire thread about Les Fletcher of Plano Texas and his poor business practices and it was hilarious. I wonder how Les Fletcher of Plano Texas is doing these days after that debacle?

O2

[BigTexasOne]

My gawd, I had forgotten completely about Les Fletcher of Plano Texas trying to rip off one of our community. I went back and read the entire thread about Les Fletcher of Plano Texas and his poor business practices and it was hilarious. I wonder how Les Fletcher of Plano Texas is doing these days after that debacle?

O2


Weird, I work in Plano, and of course I've never heard of this "Les Fletcher", so I googled him, the thread y'all had a couple of years ago is the top listing in Google results. I read the whole thing, what a total piece of -----

Anyway, back to my issue. The address on the states articles of organization are for an apartment, but that's where my demand letter is going certified, signature required, and a duplicate to his shop. I want answers! Oh, and I want my HiPower.

[BigTexasOne]

Sent demand letters to both known addresses, certified with signature required. As soon as tracking tells me that either of them have been signed and accepted, the claock begins ticking for the beginning of legal proceedings.

Wish I didn't have to do this, but...................

[BushMasterBoy]

You will probably get the gun back. Flu epidemic has been rampant, but is beginning to wane. I'm sure there is a reasonable explanation.

[BigTexasOne]

i certainly hope so

[Great-Kazoo]

You will probably get the gun back. Flu epidemic has been rampant, but is beginning to wane. I'm sure there is a reasonable explanation.


Unless he's been on life support, no one has the flu for 300 + days . At least not bad enough he or someone representing the business can contact any customers, who have work there.

[BushMasterBoy]

Facebook says he is originally from New York state. You almost have to do a background check on anybody you do biziness w/ anymore. So many scam artists out there. Not much goodwill...

[SideShow Bob]

Umm. That was weird. After my reply it now says he posted about twenty minutes ago. Sorry.

See, I’m not the only one experiencing time travel on this site..... [ Insert alien probing smilie here]

[OtterbatHellcat]

Here's hoping this gets amicably resolved for both parties and the high power gets returned. It would be unfortunate to have another circumstance such as where Les Fletcher, of Plano Texas apparently ripped somebody off. https://www.ar-15.co/threads/96645-Les-Fletcher-of-Plano-TX-ripped-me-off-on-Armslist-need-ideas?highlight=Fletcher

I hadn't forgotten about that, but it has been a while since I thought about it. As I remember it, I think we did a pretty good job messing with his and his brides wedding gift registry as well.

:)

[O2HeN2]

Any update on this?

O2

[BigTexasOne]

Any update on this?

O2Still no contact. No messages, no phone calls, nothing. The USPS did deliver a demand letter to his residence, but as of today's mail, NOTHING.

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[BushMasterBoy]

You could tell the ATF. Guy could be doing a Rich Wyatt. If they get enough complaints they will do something. Rich Wyatt was a gunstore owner who got raided by the feds. If see something, say something.

https://www.atf.gov/firearms/report-firearms-theft-or-loss-0

[O2HeN2]

So I just looked him up on the ATF's FFL listing and as of November, this was his address (that someone also got, above):

5 84 059 07 8K 06585 M J TULO GUNMAKERS LLC NULL 9797 W COLFAX AVE SUITE 3WW LAKEWOOD CO 80215 9797 W COLFAX AVE SUITE 3WW LAKEWOOD CO 80215 7209215126

Can someone up North pop by? It's a bit of a drive from the 'springs.


I stopped by this morning, this sign was in the window (sorry for the crap pic):
73575

TF, which address was that, Golden or Lakewood?

O2

[kidicarus13]

I say we Les Fletcher of Plano, Texas him!

[Gman]

I say we Les Fletcher of Plano, Texas him!
You must be talking about Michael J Tulowitzki at MJ Yulo Gunmakers taking money for work and then not contacting customers and not returning their firearms.

[TFOGGER]

So I just looked him up on the ATF's FFL listing and as of November, this was his address (that someone also got, above):

5 84 059 07 8K 06585 M J TULO GUNMAKERS LLC NULL 9797 W COLFAX AVE SUITE 3WW LAKEWOOD CO 80215 9797 W COLFAX AVE SUITE 3WW LAKEWOOD CO 80215 7209215126

Can someone up North pop by? It's a bit of a drive from the 'springs.



TF, which address was that, Golden or Lakewood?

O2

Golden, just about a mile form my shop, as the crow flies.

[TFOGGER]

I may be able to sneak over there during the day sometime in the next week or so, scope the place out...

[colorider]

I'm going to be in the area tomorrow. I will stop by the colfax address and see if he is there. If he is, would you like me to address the situation, or just let it go and notify you that he is physically at this location. If he is not there and doors are locked, I will gather as much info as possible. Take pics of any signage or info on the door or windows.

In the meantime, here is a link to start a small claims court process. When I do small claims, I always have the deadbeat served the papers by the sheriff. Gets instant results. Never end up in court.

http://www.courts.state.co.us/Forms/PDF/JDF%20248Instructions%20forSmallClaims%20R7-131.pdf

[BigTexasOne]

I'm going to be in the area tomorrow. I will stop by the colfax address and see if he is there. If he is, would you like me to address the situation, or just let it go and notify you that he is physically at this location. If he is not there and doors are locked, I will gather as much info as possible. Take pics of any signage or info on the door or windows.

In the meantime, here is a link to start a small claims court process. When I do small claims, I always have the deadbeat served the papers by the sheriff. Gets instant results. Never end up in court.

http://www.courts.state.co.us/Forms/PDF/JDF%20248Instructions%20forSmallClaims%20R7-131.pdfSorry for not replying earlier, but if you do run into Michael, please feel free to ask him snout my situation and my Hi power, as nicely as possible. I'm not interested in aggravating the situation, I just want my pistol

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[colorider]

On my way there now. I’ll behave if he’s there. Lol. Seriously, I’m a calm and nice local business owner. I make a living being nice and listening / being a kiss ass.

[colorider]

The Colfax address is full of costumes. Boxes and racks of them. Packed full. Looks like a storage space for a costume rental company. It’s in a old shabby retail strip mall. There is a “space available “ sign in the window so the occupants are obviously looking to move out.
Door was locked and nobody inside.

[TFOGGER]

Yeah, the Golden address appears to be the current one. I dunno what the regs are concerning FFLs and change of address...

[crays]

The Colfax address is full of costumes. Boxes and racks of them. Packed full. Looks like a storage space for a costume rental company. It’s in a old shabby retail strip mall. There is a “space available “ sign in the window so the occupants are obviously looking to move out.
Door was locked and nobody inside.

So you're saying this guy is a clown? [Flower]

[colorider]

Well, there were about 24 rabbit head costumes on a rack, tons of Santa ones, Boxes and boxes of other stuff labeled with other seasons and holidays. I'm guessing there was a clown stash somewhere in there. Surely does not look like anything that has to do with an FFL business. Quite possible his main business is renting or selling costumes and does the Firearm thing on the side. Either way, this dude needs his gun back. BigTexasOne, If this Michael guy received your letter, signed for it and has not responded, I would quickly start small claims or even get in touch with the authorities that he has your firearm and will not get it back to you. Small claims is probably the quickest way to do this. Have the sheriff serve him the papers. Serve him at the address where you had the certified letter sent. I think you can file online. Follow that link I sent earlier to see what needs to be done. This also may get special attention as it has crossed state lines and a firearm is part of the ordeal.
From the sounds of it (and from experience) it really sounds like this Michael guy no longer has your gun. Either lost it, sold it, or for some reason does not have it. If he had it, a simple call back to you saying he is shipping it back unfinished would sure solve a bunch of problems. Or say I'll get right on it. Silence is never a good thing.

[hurley842002]

He's on Facebook, although he doesn't appear to be very active.

[BigTexasOne]

He's on Facebook, although he doesn't appear to be very active.I knew he had moved out of the Colfax location, and set up shop in the corporate drive location in golden

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[BigTexasOne]

I knew he had moved out of the cold facts location, and set up shop in the corporate drive location in golden

Sent from my SM-G950U using TapatalkHe told me all about how he moved and at 1 point in time even posted a photograph I think back in November of the view from his new office window at the corporate location in golden, Anybody else take a chance a shot at the golden location? 420 corporate drive suite C

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[buffalobo]

Good on colorider and TFOGGER for helping out. [AR15]

The rest of you piranhas be patient with the Les Fletcher job. [dig]

[colorider]

I'll check out the Golden location tomorrow.

[colorider]

There is a costume shop 8 doors down from the colfax address. So either the FFL address is total bullshit, or he owns the Costume shop and uses the FFL location as storage. Either way, I would pursue the address where the certified letter was sent.

[BigTexasOne]

There is a costume shop 8 doors down from the colfax address. So either the FFL address is total bullshit, or he owns the Costume shop and uses the FFL location as storage. Either way, I would pursue the address where the certified letter was sent.Anyone willing to help, be aware that Tulo Guns says they are only open Tuesday through Friday. I would really appreciate anyone stopping by the 420 Corporate Circle address, suite C, in Golden to find out if he ever goes to work. If anyone happens to run into him, my name is Leslie Leslie, (yes, both names are the same) and I want my HiPower.

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[TFOGGER]

Anyone willing to help, be aware that Tulo Guns says they are only open Tuesday through Friday. I would really appreciate anyone stopping by the 420 Corporate Circle address, suite C, in Golden to find out if he ever goes to work. If anyone happens to run into him, my name is Leslie Leslie, (yes, both names are the same) and I want my HiPower.

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I'll try to get by there Tuesday, and let you know.

[O2HeN2]

I'll try to get by there Tuesday, and let you know.
See if you can identify any other companies that he might own (like the costume business?). If we can verify that he owns/operates anything else WITH 100% ACCURACY*, they might merit mention too if we have to Les Fletcher him.

O2

* But boy, we better be absoluetly sure we don't make a mistake!

Ps. If I were you I'd start my phone's video camera and put it in your chest pocket (boosted up if necessary so the lens clears the pocket) before you knock - might come in handy if BTO needs to take him to court.

[Irving]

I'm pretty sure that costume shop has nothing to do with this. They've been over there forever.

[O2HeN2]

If you ever had a FFL copy (which I'm guessing you did) plug the #'s into ATF e-verify to see if it is still current and/or if anything has changed.

The FFL "ez check" (https://fflezcheck.atf.gov/ (https://fflezcheck.atf.gov/fflezcheck)) site is broken. My guess that this is enough reason to call for more gun control, since government ineptitude results in punishment of gun owners these days...

O2

[Irving]

What happened to DOC45's post? I thought it was right on.

[BigBear]

This is why I always try to find local people to work on my firearms/tools. I'll never ship something off... ugh. Hope this gets resolved.

Any new news?

[buffalobo]

What happened to DOC45's post? I thought it was right on.He deleted it.

If you're unarmed, you are a victim

[Doc45]

Thanks, yeah I thought perhaps I was too heavy handed. Err on the side of caution and all that.

[BigTexasOne]

The USPS totally sucks, in my humble opinion. The 2 certified letters that I sent to Mr. Tulo regarding my hipower, one was lost, and the other was delivered, however the postal service cannot say to whom nor where. So, apparently I have to redo the letters and send them signature, receipt required, personal individual delivery required, by fedex or UPS. I think it's time the federal government sold the postal service to the high bidder, Maybe then we could get some performance, or even maybe, some accountability

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[Skip]

The USPS totally sucks, in my humble opinion. The 2 certified letters that I sent to Mr. Tulo regarding my hipower, one was lost, and the other was delivered, however the postal service cannot say to whom nor where. So, apparently I have to redo the letters and send them signature, receipt required, personal individual delivery required, by fedex or UPS. I think it's time the federal government sold the postal service to the high bidder, Maybe then we could get some performance, or even maybe, some accountability

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If he's avoiding communications he might just avoid a second round of letters at this point. If he's a deadbeat, they are probably stacking up. And if something serious has happened to him, he probably doesn't care/have time to care.

IANAL but at this point I would proceed with a civil action, but I'm local. You can use a PI to track him down and serve him. But you've still got the hassle of trying to file docs and appearing. Not to mention collecting if you win.

Does anyone have any advice on how to go through small claims when you're out of state?

[Irving]

Why hasn't the ATF been involved yet?

[TheGrey]

The USPS totally sucks, in my humble opinion. The 2 certified letters that I sent to Mr. Tulo regarding my hipower, one was lost, and the other was delivered, however the postal service cannot say to whom nor where. So, apparently I have to redo the letters and send them signature, receipt required, personal individual delivery required, by fedex or UPS. I think it's time the federal government sold the postal service to the high bidder, Maybe then we could get some performance, or even maybe, some accountability

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Whenever you send important documents, use FedEx or UPS with certified delivery, signature required upon delivery, and select the alert to let you know it's been delivered.

Now that it's been delivered, he's on the alert. He may reach out to you in a day or two, or he'll be ducking you now. You can try to send the documents through one of the other services so you have a paper trail, proving you have made numerous attempts to contact him, or you can start raising holy hell through the local police department. Did you say you have his phone number? Call hm and let him know (even if it's on voice mail) that if he does not contact you with regard to yur gun by the 14th, you will contact the authorities. Be polite, be succinct, and let your tone show that you are DONE playing.

Either way, the next step would be to either hire a process server and have him served with the papers you file, or

[BushMasterBoy]

Why hasn't the ATF been involved yet?

Because he doesn't have a reality TV show ?

[Irving]

Sounds like he's stealing firearms to me. That's ATF territory.

I bet if someone drove a stolen Jeep Cherokee through the store front it'd get someone's attention. :p

[Skip]

Sounds like he's stealing firearms to me. That's ATF territory.

I bet if someone drove a stolen Jeep Cherokee through the store front it'd get someone's attention. :p

OP wants his HP back not locked in an evidence room, handled by monkeys, for three years+.

BTW, price on genuine HPs are going up because Browning has stopped production.

[TFOGGER]

I'll run by there tomorrow on my way to the bank. We'll see if he has actual business hours...

[BigTexasOne]

I would appreciate that, thank you.

As some have said, I just want my pistol back. I don't want to cause trouble with the ATF, and I don't want to go to court. I just want my gun!

[Mazin]

Somtimes the things we dont want to do is exactly what's needed to get accomplished what we want / need. Besides at this juncture your probably not the only one who is getting screwed.

[Doc45]

This ^. Horse, meet water.

[TFOGGER]

Went by there at 1015. Door locked, lights off, mail stacked up inside the door.
73843

Note: The emergency number shown on the hours sign is cut off, but I believe it to be his cell #. Missing the last digit, it'll take some time to figure out.

73844

[O2HeN2]

Missing the last digit, it'll take some time to figure out.
No more than it takes to dial a maximum of 9 wrong numbers :)

O2

[crashdown]

Phone number was easy to figure out:

[Great-Kazoo]

Somtimes the things we dont want to do is exactly what's needed to get accomplished what we want / need. Besides at this juncture your probably not the only one who is getting screwed.

Good thing he didn't get involved in a suppressor group buy .

[Mazin]

You know I was thinking the same thing GK

[Doc45]

Maybe the op should just call Tom Martino [ROFL1]

[CS1983]

Wonder what sort of goodies are in the priority mail box...

[colorider]

I'm guessing he will be back to pick up his mail and package. Maybe a note taped to the door stating he needs to contact Leslie Leslie by the end of the business day or the next step is the batf/FBI/police.

[BushMasterBoy]

That is a good idea. Like.

[TFOGGER]

If I had to guess, he tried to complete the work and totally botched the job, or perhaps even destroyed the pistol in the process. Now he's trying to delay until he can come up with a solution. Just a guess, though. the note thing has merit, I'll be happy to do that if asked by the OP.

[BigTexasOne]

If I had to guess, he tried to complete the work and totally botched the job, or perhaps even destroyed the pistol in the process. Now he's trying to delay until he can come up with a solution. Just a guess, though. the note thing has merit, I'll be happy to do that if asked by the OP.I don't know what condition the pistol currently is in, but I do not believe at this point in time, that he damaged or injured or screwed up the gun. I think he has a major life issue of some sort and has disappeared from the scene for some reason like debts, Drugs, or such

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[kidicarus13]

You are a very patient and glass-half-full-kinda-guy Leslie²

[Gman]

You are a very patient and glass-half-full-kinda-guy Leslie²
I thought his name was "Job".

[BPTactical]

Good thing he didn't get involved in a suppressor group buy .

Or borrow a chainsaw.....

[TFOGGER]

I don't know what dition the pistol currently is in, but I do not believe at this point in time, that he damaged or injured or screwed up the gun. I think he has a major life issue of some sort and has disappeared from the scene for some reason like debts, Drugs, or such

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I'll be happy to draft a note to stick on his door with instructions to contact you immediately, lest you decide to involve the authorities. Just say the word!

[Skip]

I'll be happy to draft a note to stick on his door with instructions to contact you immediately, lest you decide to involve the authorities. Just say the word!

I'd seriously consider this offer OP. At the least he would know there are people here who can knock on his door and complicate his life and you aren't going away.

Doesn't mean you have to go that route but it's an option. That would be my "scorched earth" option just to make sure he didn't get away with it. I understand things happen in life but this is pretty much theft at this point. If the guy isn't in the hospital I'd be pissed.

BTW, a search on the company/individual info is starting to lead back to this thread.

[henpecked]

A few years ago there was a gunsmith located on the frontage road by Firestone. He was pulling the same crap. Fellow got so mad he called the Firestone PD, CBI, Weld County sheriff's department the ATF. A lot of guys got there guns back. Some had been trying for up to 8 years. The ATF is the one to call.

[henpecked]

Give the Colorado school of trades a call. Someone there may know where he is. There located in Lakewood. If he went to school there they have a alumni page on Facebook.

Pm sent your way.

[gnihcraes]

looks like his daughters instagram account, he's alive and kicking with her a few days ago. looks to be the same fella.

[Irving]

Quit pussy footing around and get serious players involved. People don't like attention from law enforcement, but he forced you into that position when he stole your gun.

[BigTexasOne]

I'd say, rather than put it on the door, slip it through the mail slot. If he ever shows up, he'll go inside.
Thanks, this is getting to be a bigger mystery all the time.

Leslie

[hurley842002]

I'll be happy to draft a note to stick on his door with instructions to contact you immediately, lest you decide to involve the authorities. Just say the word!

The gun community as a whole could take a few lessons from this forum, WE take care of one another, good on you for the offer.

[BigTexasOne]

looks like his daughters instagram account, he's alive and kicking with her a few days ago. looks to be the same fella.

What is his daughters instagram account? I see no link or photo...

I know his daughter had some trouble back in November, an that is why he claimed to be out of contact ,(November and December)at that time. He said she was a witness to a murder, or something like that, and was traumatized, and he was spending his time with her, as she is his only family.

Please, get me more info on that Instagram account

Thanks; Leslie

[Great-Kazoo]

Quit pussy footing around and get serious players involved. People don't like attention from law enforcement, but he forced you into that position when he stole your gun.

Agreed, Time for No More Mister Nice Guy.

DOC45 was right
.
You should have started action after the 2nd - 3rd month of no contact. Having dealt with similar situation[s]. Had i, like you took action sooner this may have been resolved last year

Sending the FFL in question a Please Contact Me Letter Instead of notification from local LE or worse yet ATF. Who actually take firearm theft seriously, this would have been over with.
Now, who knows? He could be in the wind, already sold customers guns and not going to be held accountable.

https://www.atf.gov/denver-field-division/colorado-field-offices

[BigTexasOne]

I want to thank everyone that has been involved with this fiasco, I really, truly appreciate your help. I am also a motorcycle rider, and that's one of the great things about that community also, you have "friends" and "family" everywhere.

I consider everything you've done, so far, as a real blessing!

I just want my pistol back, in what ever condition it is in.

I am going to call the Lakewood police, today, and request that they do a "welfare check" on his appartment, under the guise of "I am concerned for his well being" because he hasn't been to his shop in some time and doesn't answer his phone.

Again, Thank You


Leslie Leslie

[Great-Kazoo]

I want to thank everyone that has been involved with this fiasco, I really, truly appreciate your help. I am also a motorcycle rider, and that's one of the great things about that community also, you have "friends" and "family" everywhere.

I consider everything you've done, so far, as a real blessing!

I just want my pistol back, in what ever condition it is in.

I am going to call the Lakewood police, today, and request that they do a "welfare check" on his appartment, under the guise of "I am concerned for his well being" because he hasn't been to his shop in some time and doesn't answer his phone.

Again, Thank You


Leslie Leslie

Absolutely not. You tell them you believe (based upon repeated attempts to contact) with no response on his end, that the person in question may have stolen your gun. At the same time a call to the link i included should be done, today.

WTF good is a welfare check, when this should be a face jail time visit.
Besides. You ask for a welfare check and they feel he is somewhat off. The legal cost to get your gun back from a police evidence room after thy confiscate his guns .... Well by that time it will be C&R eligible

[Ramsker]

Absolutely not. You tell them you believe (based upon repeated attempts to contact) with no response on his end, that the person in question may have stolen your gun. At the same time a call to the link i included should be done, today.

WTF good is a welfare check, when this should be a face jail time visit.
Besides. You ask for a welfare check and they feel he is somewhat off. The legal cost to get your gun back from a police evidence room after thy confiscate his guns .... Well by that time it will be C&R eligible

This . . . don't concoct some strategy/story outside of the facts you have to work with. You sent the guy your gun to have work done . . . he has strung you along, lied and failed to send the weapon back and has gone no-contact. You have every reason to consider the gun to be stolen at this point. Best case scenario is that he still has it and is just a con man or very poor businessman. But he may have destroyed it, sold it, "lost it", taken it for himself . . . who knows. The fact that he's not responding and is dragging this out lends to the belief that something untoward is going on.

Time to call in the dogs based on the facts you have to work with.

[CS1983]

Unfortunately, you need to do what others have suggested. It's no fun. You seem like you want to just be a good person about it. Sometimes, being a good person means getting pretty darn nasty.

Also, a welfare check is potentially putting police in unnecessary danger. If this dude is legitimately aware that he is in violation of laws concerning firearms, he might go off instead of face jail. It's best to at least give the cops the courtesy of knowing this is more than someone who might have broken a hip in their apt.

I know it's not stateside law enforcement, but in 2005 we had a tip in Iraq that seemed like a standard meet n greet of the locals. The Ministry of the Interior Commandos failed to tell us they had intel that it was a freakin' AQI training camp. We rolled into the situation thinking we were going to interview simple fishermen and started catching RPGs and machine gun fire. Had we known, it would have been a whole different approach. DON'T. DO. THAT. to the cops. Give them proper intel and let THEM decide if they want to roll in with nothing more than a smile.

[colorider]

The letter and phone calls were the nice guy approach. He ignored them. Time to move on to phase 2. ATF FBI, local police.

[O2HeN2]

Gonna have to chime in. Either stay with the nice guy route through this board, or go full-LEO (report a stolen gun). Don't mess with a welfare check.

The choice is yours, but do one or the other, not something in between. I'd be torn, too.

O2

[TFOGGER]

I spoke to the OP this morning. Note is drafted and will be delivered today.

[colorider]

Good job Jim.

[Irving]

Looks like I've missed some developments today. Starting to wonder if we're being trolled.

[Skip]

Looks like I've missed some developments today. Starting to wonder if we're being trolled.

By OP? That would be epic!!!

I think the only troll is MJ Tulo Guntakers.

[Great-Kazoo]

Looks like I've missed some developments today. Starting to wonder if we're being trolled.

was thinking this also

[hurley842002]

Looks like I've missed some developments today. Starting to wonder if we're being trolled.
was thinking this alsoCrossed my mind as well, but try to give the benefit of the doubt.

[TFOGGER]

Having spoken to Leslie on the phone, I think it's unlikely. He seems to be a genuinely nice guy, just trying to get his gun back. He seems unwilling to see the possibility that the smith in question might not be on the up and up.

[theGinsue]

Having spoken to Leslie on the phone, I think it's unlikely. He seems to be a genuinely nice guy, just trying to get his gun back. He seems unwilling to see the possibility that the smith in question might not be on the up and up.

At this point in time, that sort of attitude is being wantonly naive. If the smith in question were on the up & up then he would have at least maintained communication.

OP: It's long past the point where you need to wake up and realize the nice guy approach isn't working and this is now beyond a shadow of a doubt a stolen firearm. You need to shit or get off the pot - report this to law enforcement or resign yourself that the gun is forever gone and drop it.

[Great-Kazoo]

Having spoken to Leslie on the phone, I think it's unlikely. He seems to be a genuinely nice guy, just trying to get his gun back. He seems unwilling to see the possibility that the smith in question might not be on the up and up.

While i commend your assistance, if he doesn't want to get LE involved at this point in the game. There's really nothing a letter will do to get this deadbeat FFL issue resolved.

[Irving]

+1 for TFOGGER and his efforts.

[BigTexasOne]

i have made digital contact with MJ's daughter, and she seemed surprised that his phone was not working and she stated that she was extremely concerned and would go check on him and get back to me. I also contacted the Lakewood PD, where he lives, and requested a "welfare check", they said they would and would call me back after contact, I also found twitter and instagram accounts that I have left message on. I also talked with Ralph Stovenor, he seemed genuinely surprised that MJ wouldn't be going to his shop, also surprised that I had contacted him. If nothing else, I have stirred the hornet's nest and will wait a few days for results. If nothing, then I'll go to the ATF. Wish me luck

[Irving]

Who was Ralph Stovenor again? I don't remember from the first time through the thread. At least you've gotten people's attention.

[TheGrey]

Good luck, Leslie! Hopefully that shakes the trees and will get you your gun back.

[Grant H.]

i have made digital contact with MJ's daughter, and she seemed surprised that his phone was not working and she stated that she was extremely concerned and would go check on him and get back to me. I also contacted the Lakewood PD, where he lives, and requested a "welfare check", they said they would and would call me back after contact, I also found twitter and instagram accounts that I have left message on. I also talked with Ralph Stovenor, he seemed genuinely surprised that MJ wouldn't be going to his shop, also surprised that I had contacted him. If nothing else, I have stirred the hornet's nest and will wait a few days for results. If nothing, then I'll go to the ATF. Wish me luck

You're way to lax about this.

It's been 3-4 months since you have heard from him.

Asking for a welfare check on a person, before you then charge him with theft, isn't going to help your case. Unless you told the PD why you wanted this welfare check, I suspect they aren't going like having you call back in a few days to tell them that this dude actually stole your gun and hasn't been obeying the laws or talking to you.

There is a time and place for being understanding and nice. That ended MONTHS ago.

Call the ATF and get this taken care of.

https://www.atf.gov/denver-field-division/colorado-field-offices

[Ramsker]

Well . . . good luck. Despite the advice you seem intent on doing this your own way and I would imagine it's just going to lead to more of the same run-around until you get serious about applying pressure.

[BigTexasOne]

Who was Ralph Stovenor again? I don't remember from the first time through the thread. At least you've gotten people's attention.Ralph, I believe, was an instructor at Colorado School of Trades, and MJ was one of his students.

Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk

[TFOGGER]

The note has been delivered. Somebody had obviously been there since Tuesday morning, as there was less (and different) mail on the floor inside the door. Still have not seen an actual person there.

[BigTexasOne]

I have spoken wins the area office of the ATF, and MJ Tulo never filed the paperwork necessary to notify ATF of a change of Address. They are going to send an agent out to investigate, of course, I don't know when, But, the saga continues

Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk

[BigTexasOne]

Well, isn't this amazing! With in 3 minutes of leaving a message on his phone telling him I have contacted the ATF Chama he called and promised to ship it today and text me a copy of the postal receipt with a tracking number. I wonder what happens next

Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk

[Ramsker]

I have spoken wins the area office of the ATF, and MJ Tulo never filed the paperwork necessary to notify ATF of a change of Address. They are going to send an agent out to investigate, of course, I don't know when, But, the saga continues

Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk

As Buford T. Justice would say . . . "THAT is an attention getter."

Should shake things loose with a visit from the ATF. If he has the gun, he should be motivated to return it. If he doesn't have the gun . . . he's got some serious 'splaining to do. I'm the first person to give someone the benefit of the doubt, but this guy seems shady from the history of it all.

https://i.makeagif.com/media/8-11-2015/ZcVl2m.gif

[Irving]

Now that you know that local gun forums exist, in the future you can ask locals before using someone out of state. I don't think anyone here has even heard of this guy until your inquiries. Just one more layer of protection for the future.

[TFOGGER]

Well, isn't this amazing! With in 3 minutes of leaving a message on his phone telling him I have contacted the ATF Chama he called and promised to ship it today and text me a copy of the postal receipt with a tracking number. I wonder what happens next

Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk

Interesting...

[colorider]

Crossing my fingers that your gun hits the mail. Just for giggles, have him send you a pic of your gun. As proof he has it and is shipping it.

[henpecked]

Crossing my fingers that your gun hits the mail. Just for giggles, have him send you a pic of your gun. As proof he has it and is shipping it.

Do this.........

[BushMasterBoy]

I'd rather have a tracking # so you can be there when it arrives. For all we know, Tulo is dying of cancer. Let us know when it arrives safely. remember, bad advice is your worst enemy...

[colorider]

You get a tracking number as soon as you print a label. Doesn't mean the package is actually in the hands of the post offfice or other carrier. Unless he brings it direct to the shipper.

[Skip]

This is great news!!!

Pretty shitty that it took threatening this to get him to be a decent person.

[BigTexasOne]

I have a FedEx shipping receipt and a tracking number for overnight shipping, I'm supposed to get it tomorrow, and he included am aluminum case with foam cut to match........ We'll see, i'll post more pics when it gets here. This is a 1976 Hi power that was showing its age on the outside, but showed very little wear on the inside. Almost as if it had been a daily carry but seldom fired. I will probably replace the grips, those are the originalhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180316/9db95c711ac125020151a082babf074f.jpg

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[Great-Kazoo]

Looks like the only thing he did was let it collect dust & rust Either way he needs a real shitty review from you, so others don't have to hit state forums for help.

[davsel]

Is that a before or after pic?

[theGinsue]

Is that a before or after pic?

Likely both

[BigTexasOne]

This us what it looked like when I sent ithttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180316/f8e5c2f730680a8cbb385982ee830f4e.jpg

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[TFOGGER]

So he did a fairly poor color case hardening job on the frame, and basically left the rest untouched? When does the man ever sleep, I mean he's only had it for 11 months...[Sarcasm2]

[davsel]

I am truly sorry for your loss.

[BPTactical]

I hate to say it but that looks just awful.
This guy screwed you big time.

Only one place for color case hardening: https://www.turnbullrestoration.com/

[TheGrey]

I have a FedEx shipping receipt and a tracking number for overnight shipping, I'm supposed to get it tomorrow, and he included am aluminum case with foam cut to match........ We'll see, i'll post more pics when it gets here. This is a 1976 Hi power that was showing its age on the outside, but showed very little wear on the inside. Almost as if it had been a daily carry but seldom fired. I will probably replace the grips, those are the originalhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180316/9db95c711ac125020151a082babf074f.jpg

Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk

What did he DO to your gun? Why is there rust? I hope the gradations are just from the photograph. Oh, man.

[Gman]

Looks like failed case hardened frame, target sites, and a crappy bronze Cerakote.

Sent from my SM-T700 using Tapatalk

[Skip]

There is nothing more beautiful than a honestly worn (steel) gun IMHO. If it can't be left alone, I would go with the original bluing.

(I completely understand the need to refinish the newer aluminum firearms, not much can be done other than anodize/coat)

Here is my '53 (I think) West German police.

https://i.imgur.com/jmJRveV.jpg

[Gman]

There is nothing more beautiful than a honestly worn (steel) gun IMHO. If it can't be left alone, I would go with the original bluing.

(I completely understand the need to refinish the newer aluminum firearms, not much can be done other than anodize/coat)

Here is my '53 (I think) West German police.

https://i.imgur.com/jmJRveV.jpgNice pistol...and I agree with keeping it original.

Sent from my SM-T700 using Tapatalk

[BigTexasOne]

Ok, the gun arrived this morning just as Fedex said it would.

73893

It looks much better in person than his photo, and I'm not much good at quick photos of a gun, they are hard as hell to get the lighting correct.

I will not say that I am "thrilled" with the result, but on the other hand, I am not too disappointed. The frame was color case hardened, the slide was refinished with a blue finish and the hammer, slide release, and the extractor were finished in Nitre blue. He installed new sights with fiber optics and an adjustable rear. These are the original 1976 grips, and I intend to replace them. The trigger pulls at a very smooth 5.5 lbs and it's, more or less, what i wanted. actually, I want a Nighthawk/Turnbull final 50 HiPower, like this,
73894

But I'm in this only $1350 and the Turnbull would set me back well over $3000

Well, it is what it is, and I've learned a few things about "artists"..........I'll never do business with a smith that I can't easily drive to their shop to check on my project.

btw, as far as leaving it original, I have other HiPowers, inclucing a Mk III built in 2016, that is still in it's original box, unwrapped, unfired! So this was a project for me, my way. And the sights, yes they are inappropriate to the year and model, but they are what I wanted so that I can daily carry and shoot regularly

[Skip]

Great ending to a saga!!!

[Ban1]

[Gman]

Second picture is much better than the first. Glad you got your shooter back.

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[BigTexasOne]

Thank You to everyone who helped in this fiasco, especially;

Tfogger

Chuckchili

O2HeH2

Colorider

The situation is resolved, and that's all I really ever wanted.

On y next trip to Winter Park, I'll notify y'all in advance and I'll pay for a couple of rounds at a place of your choosing.

Thank You

Leslie V Leslie

[TheGrey]

I'm so glad it's back home where it belongs!

The second round of photos are much better. :)

[izzy]

well that's pretty cool how that all worked out

[TFOGGER]

Glad it all worked out for your Leslie! Please give me holler when you next pass this way!

[wctriumph]

I am happy that you got it back.

I really like my Browning 9mm. This my old one that I used to win the first Put Up or Shut Up.

[Ramsker]

Glad it worked out! My Hi-Power is happy for your Hi-Power.

https://i.imgur.com/B52LIBG.jpg

[henpecked]

Count your blessings and buy lottery tickets this weekend. You were very lucky.

[pickenup]

Interesting thread for sure. Watching as it unfolded, wondering the outcome.
This story ends here with an amicable ending for "you" but could be the start of another interesting story for the other party involved.
We will probably never know.

[OneGuy67]

Now that you have your pistol back, don't be a stranger here. We always enjoy having new people on the forum!

[BigTexasOne]

Having been to the range with her, now, I think I understand his hesitancy to return it. The sights are wrong, and it would be my guess that he didn't know what to do to fix it, or was to embarrassed to admit his mistake.

When I decided that I wanted to go to fiber optic sights ( my eyesight ain't what it used to be), knowing that the slide needed to be welded, repaired, and then re-cut for the dovetails, it originally had only a staked front and basic rear. What we have determined here, is that the LPA sights he got to put on it would have been good, if he had machined the newly remanufactured slide correctly! However in an attempt to make the rear sight fit into, rather than onto the top of the slide, he machined a platform into the slide and then dovetailed down from there. End result, the rear sight is about .10 - .15 inches too low, therefore, the front sight is too tall! Result? At 7 -10 yards, the POI is almost 3" too low, even with the rear adjusted all the way up.

Now I've ordered a new front sight that my local smith determined would be the appropriate height, with a very cool program Dawson Precision has on their site, https://dawsonprecision.com/sight-calculator/ and as soon as it comes in, I'll update you on how it works.

Other than the sights issue, the weapon functions perfectly, has a nice sub 4 lb pull, and the beauty is growing on me. I really like it! Now a new set of grips to accent the frame colors, and I'll be ready to go!

Thanks for you interest, and remember, Gun Control is being able to know when to shoot, and then being able to hit what you aim at!

[Gman]

Thanks for the range report! Glad to hear it's back in your hands where it belongs. Hopefully your local smith will be able to get it all worked out for you.

Happy shooting!

[SouthPaw]

Finally glad to open a thread like this that has a happy ending. Congrats! This goes with out saying, but pretty cool we have some guys that took personal time to help a complete stranger out.

[ray1970]

Love a happy ending. Or at least not a sad one. Hopefully if any of us poor folks here in Colorado need a favor from someone in Texas ya’ll will have our backs.