HJ Sable vs. Akubra Medium Brown

[cowboy827]

I have an Akubra Fed Deluxe in medium brown, and I really like the hat. Nevertheless, I keep thinking I may want to buy an HJ from Magnoli.

I'm sure that there are many collectors out there who have both hats. Can anyone tell me if there is a noticeable color difference between the two hats (both felt and ribbon), or about differences in the feel of the felt? I've looked at countless photos, and the color of EVERY hat seems different in each one. The felt of my Akubra is soft and floppy, and I hear that the HJ is, too. Some comparisons would be helpful.

I tried searching past posts, but couldn't find where these comparisons has been specifcally discussed in the past. If someone can point me to a previous thread, that would also be appreciated.

Lastly, is there anyone in New England who owns an HJ and wouldn't mind showing it off to me in person? I'd really love to see one.

Thanks to all.

[DR Ulloa]

The Akubra has better quality felt. That being said, the Mag/AB HJ is s custom hat. Magnoli has all the parts shipped from HJ to Steve Delk and he stablelizes the felt more, re pounces the felt, sews in the sweat and ribbon by hand, and uses his ribbon. You are essentially getting a custom HJ from AB. It won't stand up to the elements like a Federation will, but since you already have one, this would make a great dress hat. As far as floppiness goes, it is much floppier than the Federation. I'd say its the floppiest Indy hat on the market. Steve posted a photo not too long ago where the Mag/AB HJ was practically falling into itself. Durability aside, and remember that it is stabilized as much as possible by Steve so its not as bad as the stock HJ, it is the ultimate SA Raiders hat.

Dave