Thanks Tom,
Actually, again we (as I keep doing it) the original pattern is 1884, not 100% sure where the 1885 comes from.
Tom is a good source on detail information. One reason I prefer to buy from him and Robert (and why I recommend them) is that they both not only do exceptional work, but have done their research! Handling many originals.
Often when you find cavalry boots with a too good to be true price they are made overseas. While I have seen some GREAT stuff come from overseas it tends to be the exception. This is not always the fault of the maker, but more the fault of the original customer. Often they send a poor quality repro, or more commonly, a picture to the guys in Asia and Mexico. So what they get back is what you would expect from just sending a picture. They give little or no guidance (as they too have never handled an original) and there is no quality control. If the original "seller" is not happy with the shortcuts the maker starts to take, the maker easily finds another "sutler" in the states who will peddle his substandard wares.
Again, Tom and Robert make good stuff, here in the USA, one at a time to YOUR feet. They have handled originals, they have alot of original period bootmaking tools, equipments, lasts, etc. And both believe in customer service.
The only disclaimer I will put is that I do not really favor one over the other. My rule of thumb is more out of personal obligations. I tend to buy my 19th Century boots from Robert and my 20th Century boots from Tom to spread my money to both (Robert does not like to do 20th Century at all). I also tend to stick to their catalogs (though I know both have taken on projects otherwise). SO I'd buy my M1872 boots from Robert and M1887 from Tom. The only other thing I will throw in here is that as much as Robert is also a personal friend, Tom has taken the time on the board to add his wisdom, I think that should count for something with the GAF.
Chris Fischer
F-Troop