I can say only one thing - I have purchased many items from Jim Petty and although I have had to be patient from time to time, some times waiting two months or longer, I have always received excellent products for a price that I believed was a bargain because the part just wasn't available anywhere else. For example a Gretsch Microsensitive strainer lever. Granted, I had to do a little research and determine exactly which thread was correct.
He unfortunately does not take credit cards or use Paypal so you have to send him a personal check and wait for it to clear - that's why he cashes it immediately. Also, you may have to wait for him to receive several orders for an item before he will make a production run - he doesn't maintain a large inventory because most of his items are so specialized, like the correct rubber tips for a Dynasonic ladder style snare frame - try to find those somewhere else. I've always been able to reach him with a little persistence - I think he may have another day job.
I believe you have to be patient. If you read the blog, he offered the complainant a refund. He is a very small operator. Some people think finding this stuff is like shopping at Target. Some people just can't be made happy. I think we're fortunate to have Jim Petty making this stuff. If you don't like his customer service, just try to find his stuff somewhere else.
Thanks SlingerLynn, I didn't know he offer the B&B lugs!