As a spokesman for MR Direct, I'd like to address the two originally posted questions regarding lacquer coatings and the ability of MR Direct to sell at low prices. MR Direct does not apply a lacquer coating onto its copper sinks. It's the nature of copper to constantly change its patina because it is a highly reactive metal. This transition of its appearance over time is typically a major attraction for purchasing any copper sink. We believe that the collection of copper sinks offered by MR Direct is a superior representation of the hand-hammered craftsmanship that can be achieved when using 99% pure-mined copper. With complete authority to manage the operations of its overseas manufacturing facilities, MR Direct boasts unsurpassed quality control. Even though many other familiar names in the sink industry also manufacture overseas, the reason MR Direct is able to sell for less is that, as our name states, we ship direct. No middlemen means no additional markup. It's really that simple. We encourage you to shop around and compare specs and prices. We are confident that you will find us to be offering an outstanding product at an affordable price.

I can help enlighten on the UPC and certification. In the USA there is NO i repeat NO regulation on stainless steel sinks. That being said, typically prices to good to be true ARE. What happens is most of the companies are Brokers and do NOT manufacture and are at the mercy of the importer to bring them in quality. Problem arises when the factory, to save money, switches stainless you wouldn't know if you were getting 16ga or thinner cheaper 18ga or they claim 304 stainless and product is lesser grade that WILL rust. Yes i am in the industry and i give no brand name, however i can tell you there is independent testing to satisfy this claim. UPC is a company that certifies products, however once again there are many loopholes as the manufacture picks the sinks they send to be certified. Rule of thumb stick with a name brand - do a little research and by all means ask if the company is a true manufacturer. Be leery of companies not willing to put themselves in the public eye EX. advertising etc. Also be leery of any companies the DO NOT put logos into the sink, this is an good indication the sink is most likely not certified. Remember you cut the hole you own the hole. You cant go back and change a sink in granite. BUYER BEWARE. This isn't the place to skimp all though most do. See you tube video below from Designing spaces on how to choose a kitchen sink Here is a link that might be useful: Designing Spaces

I got a large single bowl sink and a smaller prep sink - they will be installed next week. Quality looks good so far - be sure to inspect EVERYTHING you ordered - sink, drain, grate, etc. Inspect even if you won't be installing it for awhile. My sink drain was bent slightly and they replaced it. I can't wait to have a sink again!

i wanted to update this for future searchers. i decided to take a chance on homecenter because. after searching several sites, they had all items i wanted both in stock and at the best prices; i did order far enough in advance to resolve any problems. i ordered three days ago and received the faucet the next day and the sink and strainer today. everything looks in order, except they did send the wrong strainer. apparently there is a mixup with the stock number and this happened to others with the particular item. they told me to just toss it out and i should receive the right one in three days. i will update if there are continued issues, but as of now i would use them again.