Originally Posted by Duragrouch

I can definitely understand your caution, especially with a hub assembly or cartridge bearings or roller bearings, etc. However, common steel bearing balls, typically 52100 high-carbon steel, are incredibly common, low price, and so are the processes. It's amazing the low cost for the typical quality. But getting from a known name like Shimano from a trusted distribution channel should be great. However, if your town has an industrial supply (in Detroit it was Detroit Ball Bearing, who sold all kinds of hardware), bearings from a source like that will typically be genuine, top brand, and fantastic prices. I recall 40 years ago getting genuine made-in-USA Timken roller bearings for my car front spindles, at 1/3 the cost of the auto parts store, and better quality. In the '90s it was huge 86mm ball bearing assemblies for a german car, german brand OEM bearing for a small fraction of price at the dealer.