The most important thing a boat owner should have

[Mr. Sandman]

The problem with defender is... it is in CT. If you need it now...and there is a west marine down the street, that is where I go. I normally don't worry about pennies but on bigger ticket items I will shop around and generally order online. Many times defender does not have the best price. But in general they are very good.
If you are really anal about getting the lowest price, and still want it now...a better way is to get the one of the bar code ap's for your smartphone (red laser or a couple others out there). Simply scan the item with your phone in the store. It shows you the price/info for the item then lists the best you can do online and at specific stores. Then take the phone to the counter and ask for the lowest price. You will still have to pay tax but you have the item right then.

[likwid]

Originally Posted by Mr. Sandman

The problem with defender is... it is in CT. If you need it now...and there is a west marine down the street, that is where I go. I normally don't worry about pennies but on bigger ticket items I will shop around and generally order online. Many times defender does not have the best price. But in general they are very good.
If you are really anal about getting the lowest price, and still want it now...a better way is to get the one of the bar code ap's for your smartphone (red laser or a couple others out there). Simply scan the item with your phone in the store. It shows you the price/info for the item then lists the best you can do online and at specific stores. Then take the phone to the counter and ask for the lowest price. You will still have to pay tax but you have the item right then.

Saving pennies?
For example, Interlux Pre-Kote is about a $15 difference in price. Not pennies.
VC Performance, last I looked, $40/gal difference.

And most west marines just showing them the price on the phone won't fly, you need to print it out. Hense the catalogue.