I ask because it is a common question/complaint among cleaners that I've read in a few other places. If you don't mind addressing my question a little more specifically, what part of an upholstery tool in general causes it to have such a high price tag relative to the amount of materials in it? Is it the body of the tool? Or something else?
The question is fair Bryce
Mike has far more experience than I in manufacturering, but I have a little experience in working with manufacturers over the years in an advisory capacity.
Examples. I'm purposely not using Mike's tool for this comparison, as he can better answer to the unique engineering costs.
This is a fairly generic tool, which can be produced in large quantities, and versions of which may be made overseas.
This tool sells for between 125.00-150.00:
This next tool looks similar, but has several modifications: The jet is internal, with special machining to allow for that type of jet to be used, a vacuum release built in, a solution and vacuum hose that runs internally, and is only sold in limited quanties, so there isn't any economy of scale involved.
This tool sells for 500.00-525.00
Having used and tested Mike's tool myself, it is far ahead of the more expensive tool shown here, both in ease of use and modern design. It should probably sell for 750.00, but my understanding is that it will sell for closer to the second tool listed.
I hope this is helpful.