Actually, quite a few bowyers ask for a non-refundable deposit. I think it's fair. I am willing to do it.

Let me start by stating I do not have any issues with the non-refundable deposit on a bow.

But in the custom knife world a maker that requires a deposit, refundable or not, is frowned apon.  Unless expensive and/or rare materials (ivory, walrus tooth, etc.) are used.  

I know a bow is more user specific. But if a bowyer is in high demand that a lead time is required, I am sure any bows not going to the orginal buyer will sell quickly at show or on the net.

Just wonder why the differnece?

Moral of the story:  Really think through your decision to purchase a bow before putting down a deposit and make sure you are perfectly clear on what the bowyer's policy is on deposits.  
Certainly,  unexpected things can come up in life,  especially when some wait times can be 1-2 years, but the bowyer shouldn't have to feel the burden of it.

I understand a non refundable deposit if there has been any form of work done towards my bow.  But as it stand  I'm a name on a  long list my bowyer  has not even taken any info on my bow. Money is not the only issue I'm considering hanging up trad  shooting all together.

Mr. Fingers, my opinion is that it doesn't matter what myself or anybody else on this forum thinks.  It is between you and the bowyer.  Your best bet is to call and discuss it with them.  Good luck!

X2 on Sam's post......

QuoteOriginally posted by Froggy:
X2 on Sam's post......

X3 I was just feeling it out  it is between me and my bowyer. I just feel bad I'm where I'm at right now.

QuoteOriginally posted by Mr. fingers:
 

QuoteOriginally posted by Froggy:
X2 on Sam's post......

X3 I was just feeling it out  it is between me and my bowyer. I just feel bad I'm where I'm at right now. [/b]

Thanks everyone for your opiinions

Our policy is same as Bill and Mike's. I did make a exception one time but that was only because of special circumstance. They always have a credit until they are ready.
What good is a deposit if it binds nothing.

I have lost two sizeable deposits in my day for hunts....The first for $3000 and the second for $5000. They hurt really badly, but I new up front they were non refundable.

We have a refund policy, but we retain a small percentage for charge fees as they are often non refundable after a certain time frame. We also offer roll back or 100% trade for items in our store.

It is easier if the depositor finds someone to purchase their spot.
Thanks, bigjim

I've always refunded deposits when guys say they fall on tough times and can't afford the bow.  Many times, I know they are just having "buyer's remorse" or found something else they want to buy.  But I do it anyway as it doesn't cost me anything as I usually haven't started the bow.  

If I've started the bow, then I keep a small part of it as stock bows sell for less then custom orders.  

This happens more then you would think but overall it is a small percentage.  It's just the way I've done it and I have never been accused of being a good businessman.

Call the bowyer and see what he says.  Chad

My take is that if the bowyer has a non-refund policy (and I sure wouldn't blame any who do)and you know that going in, don't do it if you can't or won't abide by the policy. Just deal with bowyers who tell you they'll refund your deposit (if you find one).

I know this doesn't exactly pertain to your question,but look real hard in the classifieds. I've seen great bows in there for just a little more than some bowyers ask for a deposit,and the bows are practically new.

I found myself in a similiar situation a couple years back with Steve Gorr of Cascade archery.  He actually has a no refund for deposits policy, if I recall.  The military threw me a curve ball and I could not purchase the bow any longer.  Steve is great!  I called him and explained my situation.  He promptly gave me a full refund.  Contact your bower.  He may just work with you.

I would not expect it, it is a deposit.

Interesting thread with the varied perspectives and seemingly, all well thought thru.

Only counter to a refund is the other side of the same coin...we plunk down a deposit, lock in a price quote and then want to bail...

OK...so what if the bowyer misses your bow limb weight? Would you say, "I'm sorry, but I contracted for X weight and you built Y, so do it over?"

Over the years, I know many bow builders who have a sizable inventory of missed-weight limbs.  Customers want what they ordered at the price they ordered.  

I'd say, that should work both ways like the majority of bowyer's who replied above.  Most bowyers are very decent folks...and if a situation is genuine, they do what they can.

I like the suggestion and some saying they "roll back" the spot to allow time to regroup! Neat!

Doc Nock:I'd say, that should work both ways like the majority of bowyer's who replied above. Most bowyers are very decent folks...and if a situation is genuine, they do what they can.

There Ya go:

God bless you all, Steve

That was my point, Steve.  We as customers want to hold the bowyer to HIS agreement for our benefit, so why should it be different if we make a contract and then things change on our end?

But stuff does happen, and all the bowyers I've met were stand up people... when and if THEY can...they seem to do all they can.

I have a non refundable deposit policy, this turns into a credit for the customer if times get tough.  With a 4-6 week wait time, I order anything I need for your bow when we hang up the phone.  Risers are cut out for accents when I have the jig set up so your riser may be cut out immediately or weeks before your bow is glued up.

My deposit requirement is $100, fair to me to obtain materials, I think fair to a customer that isn't into a bow so far we can't delay an order if necessary.

You can sell your spot( deposit)  on the waiting list as long as the bow Is not glued yet. Lot's of guys are interested in a shorter wait. I did it ( as the buyer) several times and was really pleased to wait 2-3 monthes instead of the full year...