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Jared, that is one grand gentleman's hat! I wouldn't be disappointed in it lacking any special 150th ID. All mine have is a lazered sticker on the sweat. Are they supposed to have something more? I like the ribbon but if you change it I definitely would stay away from a horsehair hat band; too small & too modern for the hat. Looking forward to more pics.Big ol' box came today:
Big hat! Special edition Stetson Boss Raw Edge from JJ Hat Center in undyed "natura" felt. 4" brim with kettle curl. It came to me creased, so I don't know the open crown height, but it's at least 6". Wide 2" ribbon with fray. Also has a nice 2" leather sweatband and last drop liner.
My one nit pick off the bat is that there's really no special markings for the 150th. The Boss Raw Edge stamp on the sweat is nice however. And oh, of course, the dreaded hatco signature fishing line tacking stitches....
The felt is a nice western weight felt that has a nice melange that borders on a heathered look. No idea what the composition is, no X markings either. The brim is nice and stiff but the crown is decently soft. A little bit of steam and I got the front of the brim to dip a little. They used a really nice block on this one that really does remind me of those early Stetsons. With the deep crease the front ends up with some 'reverse taper' when viewed in profile.
Service from JJ was great. I had ordered a 56 off their website, although they had actually sold the last one in store. Claire offered me the 57 with some sizing strips and the understanding that I could return it for a full refund if it didn't work out. Well, with the strips in it fits decently well, so I guess I'll go ahead and keep it....I mean come on, did you really think I was going to send it back? ;-)
I'd actually say it's probably the nicest modern Stetson I've laid hands on...although the felt is apparently "vintage" (says Mr. Deckard on Instagram). It's definitely calling out for some kind of accoutrements. Big pheasant feather? Beaded or horsehair hat band? Decisions, decisions....