Like Rainbow21, I was fortunate to get one of Chuck Moore's wonderful ukes. I got mine on the used market, which also as stated doesn't mean you scored a "deal". They come up for sale so rarely that the values always stay pretty high. The seller I got mine from was primarily a guitar player so it didn't get played much (was "as new" when I got it), and he was a great guy to work with as spending that kind of money online with someone you don't previously know is SCAREY! We Facetimed and I got to see the uke in action and meet the seller, it was a really nice experience and I made a new friend.
Unlike many of Chucks ukes, mine doesn't have artist inlay on the headstock, the model is called “Pearl 'n Curl“ and even without his traditional artwork (probably the reason I was able to buy it), it is trimmed out beautifully! Most people, myself included, never had the chance to play a Moore Bettah uke before buying one and trust the reviews of other players. But when you make that purchase, you are REALLY hoping there's truth to all the hype about a Chuck Moore ukulele.
I can say from experience that when Chuck builds a uke, the build is impeccable, and the trim is amazing down to the finest trim lines. He builds out of the best materials so the look is always top end. But all that aside, there's a feel to my uke that just holding it, you can tell it's truly a special instrument. And playing it is a wonderful experience. The setup is past great, smooth as silk, and it's voice is also a big step up from other high end ukes I've played. I will admit there are several great builders out there I have never played, and when the build levels are at the top of the class, I'm guessing any one of them would have a similar reviews.
For me, my Chuck Moore is what one would refer to as "the total package". And yes when I bought it, it was to play, not to collect. In fact it hangs in one of a couple climate controlled display cases, 15' away from the couch with 2 of my other favorite players, and is probably one of my most played ukes (though I would never consider playing it at gigs with my all ukulele band).
One last thing, Chuck is also a great guy! I've had several email conversations with him both about my uke and about learning how to play my Lap Steel ukulele, and he's just a down to earth guy who is happy to help others with his skills. I think that kind of person is more common in the ukulele world, we all help each other with our experiences. But Chuck exemplifies this personality!
