I find it hard to believe that a designated examiner with the power to charge whatever he likes would turn down an initial ceretification, if authorized to give one.

If local examiners/inspectors are too busy, then go to a location that isn't; shop around. As an instructor, you may have to do th same thing for your students, and your instructor or program should be doing that for you. If they don't, then you take charge and do it.

I'm deeply opposed to "building hours," and would rather see someone build experience. If you want hours, theen falsify them. Write them in your book. That's what they're worth; no more than the effort to scribble them in place. Experience can't be bought or falsified, and it's what makes you an aviator. Not hours.

If you want experience flying airplanes and can't get it locally, then look beyond locally. Whether that means seeking an inspector or examiner, or finding work towing banners, tossing jumpers, doing pipeline patrol, or any number of other things, then do that. Tens of thousands of us have.

The industry tends to winnow out those without the commitment, who won't do what it takes: that puts the ball in your court. How badly do you want to fly?