Smity,
I have purchased from Mississippi Welding Supply; they provided what I paid for with reasonable speed. It's something like MWS.com but I've not used them for a couple of years... I prefer local and I have several to spread my business around to.
I hate it when folks latch on to an idea that isn't what you want to do, but that's where I'm going now with the rest of this...
I have had conversations with salesmen who were miles away from reason. I've had similar conversations with owners, executives, and managers who should know better, as well. Sometimes it pays to be patient and to nurture a repoir with these fellows.
Regards
d