@Mgunner: they have an english version of the web site (I am sure you noticed the UK flag in the bottom-right part of the site) but I do not know if the entire site is going to turn into english, maybe some parts are going to stick with italian..in case you need something translated, let me know.
The retail price is actually on par for an italian customer to buy from. They are the lowest price in Italy that I know of (I do not sponsor the store, it is just simple math). For an italian customer, getting something from them or order it from Honk Kong, the UK or the US is going to cost the same if not slightly more.
@Metallicafatcat I know Italian customs are just like everything in Italy: rule of thumb is that if it is not about food, air, landscape and relaxation, you are probably into something being done the WRONG way. It could happen for customs too but I can only speak for importing and not for exporting. Importing-wise, if you use couriers like UPS, FedEx, GLS etc. there are good chances you will not be stopped. I ordered from Redwolf and they simply called me, asked me if I confirmed the package contents as "models parts" and I told them "yes, they are spare parts for a model". Nothing more. The package shipped normally, with all the normal VAT+customs taxes.
One trick is to avoid ordering from abroad during peak times, like before Christmas, where everyone orders from web sites because italian retail stores are locally dying..they have no display, no availability and such, so you are always better off a 100% web-based store.
I ordered my upgrades in mid-July so probably the entire nation was thinking more about bikinis, tan, getting a hair cut and generally being the average stupid guy on the beach.
Consider me your deep-undercover agent in the land of Italistan. If you need the lay of the land, I've been undercover for 30 years
