Choosing between online savings and the LGS

[SouthPaw]

All you can do is ask. I have worked for small business owners and have friends who own a small LGS. They appreciate any feedback you can give them because they cannot always check their competition. I purchased my suppressor through silencershop as it was almost $300 in savings including transfer fee, tax, shipping, etc. To me, that is three additional mounts that I was able to purchase. I generally call around before making my online purchase and at least give them the opportunity to match the price or get close. If its within $50, I like to keep my business local.

[TFOGGER]

All you can do is ask. I have worked for small business owners and have friends who own a small LGS. They appreciate any feedback you can give them because they cannot always check their competition. I purchased my suppressor through silencershop as it was almost $300 in savings including transfer fee, tax, shipping, etc. To me, that is three additional mounts that I was able to purchase. I generally call around before making my online purchase and at least give them the opportunity to match the price or get close. If its within $50, I like to keep my business local.

This. I am in a similar situation with my customers and bike parts. I always prefer that they at least check with me before ordering something online, as many times they assume that I can't compete, but in reality, I'm already less expensive (tires in particular). You might be surprised to see what kind of deal they can manage. At worst, you've wasted a phone call confirming just what kind of deal you're getting online.