A bit of background on this project for those who care: Magpul Industries Corp. was founded in 1999 by a former Reconnaissance Marine named Richard Fitzpatrick, who sought to resolve some of the equipment shortcomings he experienced while in the Marine Corps. The company has since become one of the industry leaders in the design and manufacture of weapon parts/accessories for military, law enforcement, and civilian shooters. The bulk of our product line consists of injection molded polymer products, most of which are far more complex than an iPhone case. My personal job is military/international sales & business development.
Two years ago when the company decided to issue iPhones to the staff, we were all frustrated by the poor quality and high price of the case offerings at the major retail outlets, so we decided to make our own. Injection molding is our specialty, so we know what a product is truly worth. Compare, for example, the Magpul PMAG - a 30-round polymer magazine for the AR15/M16. The PMAG consists of a body, floorplate, and snap cover made from a reinforced polymer, a lock plate and follower made from a self-lubricating polymer, and a stainless steel spring. One product consisting of 5 polymer parts and 1 steel part, with an MSRP of $14.95. Oh, and 100% of the design, manufacturing, and assembly is done in the United States.
We know how much injection molded cases cost to make...not much. You will never hear anyone from our company slander another brand for making money - that is capitalism, and good for them - but for those of us know manufacturing, it was insulting to pay $25 - $35 or more for a case that wasn't even worth as much as the packaging it came in. I think many here will understand and appreciate this sentiment. I don't know what the future holds as far as Magpul iPhone or other cases, but value for money is one of our core foundations. Our current cases are designed and manufactured in the U.S.A., and worth every penny of $9.95 compared to most other retail offerings. If you disagree, we will refund your money no questions asked.