The only unknown for me is the test of time. So far the parts aren't "substandard" comparing them to factory (third party) parts. My machine is for personal use so cost does play a large part of this. I just got tired of searching for the right attachment method for my needs and being commited to that method evry time I wanted to add a new attacchment to my toy box. If one doesnt mind doing this kind of work it's really no big deal. The down side is the time spent on drawings and phisically building up the parts. Rigid Excavator Thumb for 5-6 Ton Excavators. Quickly change buckets with the pull of 1 pin Free shipping within Continental US. The Ideal Addition to your Mini-Excavator or Backhoe. My thinking behind this decision is #1 cost, #2 I hold my own drawings for all my required attachment parts (coupler, ears etc.). (3) Amulet Excavator Mini-Hitch Coupler for 3-5 Ton Machine Class. I built the coupler and wood splitter (other post) and will be buying buckets without ears and using my drawings to have the ears cut out for the buckets and I will weld them on myself.
I used draftsight to draw up coupler parts and attachment ears.
The route I am headed is transitioning from pin on attachments to quick coupler. I am in the same situation myself (need a variety of buckets/ attachments).