Both flutes are of great quality, and current designs have plenty of “bark”. I have a Hamilton 6-key myself, very lightweight, and I think his flutes have a unique tone that cuts through sessions.
There are some differences:
Keywork:
Copley: attractively-executed key. I think leaf springs are used. Block mounted. 8-key is a good value at the prices you quote.
Hamilton: simple, strong, utilitarian, lightweight keys. Uses coil springs, which can be easily adjusted. Block mounted or post mounted.
Body:
Copley: 2-piece (ie: left/right hand split) is standard, 1-piece available.
Hamilton: 1-piece body, unless Hammy now offers a split body.
Headjoint:
Copley: fully-lined head standard, 1/2-lined as option.
Hamilton: generally 1/2-lined, but he may have the other as an option.
Wait time for keyed instruments:
Copley: Seems to be fairly fast delivery.
Hamilton: Often a longer wait time.
Since you would be importing a flute from either Ireland or the U.S., I don’t know if that impacts your pricing any differently regarding currency conversions, shipping, taxes & customs duty, etc.
The only sensible advice would be to suggest that you play each flute and then make your own decision. They are very different beasts. But alas …
They are both good flutes. I own and play three of Dave Copley’s flutes. I could never come to terms fully with the Hamilton. It is still a good flute just not my cup of tea. I would observe that the Hamilton is more true to the classic Pratten design features than is the Copley.
Hamilton has made two piece bodies (at additional cost I would guess) if that helps you.
It’s the Hammy. I have 2 of them - a 6 key post mount, and a custom keyless with a short foot.
They are demanding, no shortcuts, brilliant players with an enormous tone. If you’re a lazy player don’t do it. If you’re a working player you get volume, quickness, complex and surprising overtones, but an incredible sweetness and flexibility.
I’ve had a lot of flutes, and was convinced on Hamilton flutes after hearing Conal O’Grada and Paul McGrattan play so comfortably and naturally. And, Hammy is a great fellow who will make an instrument for you within his perception of what you ask him to do, and what his conception of how it should sound will be, based on your playing, or description of your needs. That said, his formula is based on his instruments, so you may have to conform to the basics of what his flutes are before some of these nuances become clear.
Hammy just restored a Hawkes & Co F flute for me that was a nearly! complete loss - and is now a real gem.
