Bosch VS IPS Extrusion Systems

[kmcclary]

We're trying to evaluate extrusion construction systems. Is the IPS extrusion system different from Bosch, or is it the same thing under a different label? If different, which one is:
- Cheaper
- Lighter
- IYHO Better
- Used by the most teams (at least in MI).

We wish to hear from anyone using either (OR ANOTHER) extrusion construction system, so we can evaluate which one (if any) to use.

If we're to use one, we'd like to use the most popular system so we can join in your "spare parts pool" at the competitions.

Here's the links we've seen for them so far:
Bosch - http://www.boschautomation.com/produ...m_framing.html

IPS Michigan
12874 Westmore Street, Livonia, MI 48150
Phone: 734-522-9100 800-333-4932
Fax: 734-522-9102
Email: sales@ips-i.com
WebPage: http://www.industrialprofile.com
Other locs: http://www.item-products.com/SearchByState.asp http://industrialprofile.com/IPSCatalog2000v11.htm

There was a recent posting on another forum showing a couple of IPS "FIRST Kit specials" featuring an image of the TechnoKat's machine. A "small kit" for $325, and the "large kit" for $1K. (I've included it again here.)

Are those two IPS deals a good mix and/or a price break, or simply a compiliation of parts at normal price?

What are the pros and cons to these systems? (weight per foot, etc...?)

Please advise us on these sytems soon. We're about to "cut iron" so if we're going with one of these vs. traditional construction, we have to pick one right away.

Thanks!

- Keith McClary, Advisor, Huron High Team 830 "Rat Pack"