I find that I (actually my kid) use this brand at ultra high speed lately. It's one of the most expensive shuttlecock out there. As such, I'm looking for a place (mail order is fine, but preferably in U.S.) to buy a high volume (like 50 tubes, possibly more) at a deeper discount. A Google does return some such merchants doing wholesale, though I don't know if they're selling authentic brand, or imitation, and whether the website is safe. Also, when they say a barrel or a lot, how many tubes are there? I could email them also, I suppose... Anyone has any good experience? Alternatively, if anyone has successfully used a close replacement brand that has similar flight characteristics and durability but at a lower price, I'm willing to try also. Thanks.
Try Mybadmintonstore.com ? The store is based in Hong Kong. http://www.mybadmintonstore.com/shop/product_info.php?cPath=25_58_59_83&products_id=853
Checked the price - $22/tube for 25 tubes. This is before shipping, and possibly import duty/tax. Plus the wait. I'd heard of fake rackets, but is fake Yonex brand birdies a known problem these days? Also, I heard Yonex AS-30 are all made in China, not Japan. True?
Do you mean for 2013? Yonex are raising the price of everything. Racquets, Strings now Shuttles. Nothing new, just have to look elsewhere for better value.