ABS show in Troy Ohio, Would it be good for a newbie?

C

catsmasher

Joined
Jul 20, 2008
Messages
49
Hey guys,
I am new to knifemaking. I just recieved my first knife kit actually. Then I planned to work on some purchased blade blanks and then move up to doing the whole knife if I enjoy it.
I live in northern Indiana not too far from Troy and was thinking about going down on Saturday. Would the show in Troy be something I would benefit from? I am not all that interested in forging (but I do plan to do some heat treating eventually), and it looks geared more toward forging. How big is the knife show part of Saturday and would the demonstrations be open to the public.
I did look on the web. It waqs hard to tell how big he knife show would be, and it looks like the demos and the forging class might only be open to those who pay a fee.

Thanks
Rob
 
Let me say that I, also a newb, had a super time at the ABS Hammer-in in Maine last month. Met some forum members, learned a LOT in the classroom and demos and forged my first blade with some expert help. The knife show was modest, but worthwhile. My advice is to go, learn, try forging and have fun.

Michael

PS Even if you are not interested in forging, many topics covered pertain to stock removal as well (grinding, heat treat, handle fitting, hand filing/finishing, etc.)

PPS Loosen up the pocket book and pay the modest fee--it is WELL worth it.
 
Knife shows and hammer-in's are really good for any stage in your knifemaking journey,you will meet great people and learn alot,and if you know alot you can help others.Make evry one you can.
Stan
 
I'm new at this as well, and attended the ABS Forged Blade Expo in San Antonio last weekend. I learned more sitting in on the seminars Friday morning than I would in a month of piddling by myself. Then the rest of the day I got to meet some of the makers whose work I see on BF, and actually handle their work.

It was well worth the time and money!
 
Rob, I wouldn't expect a giant show, but there will surely be many top makers in attendance. The difference in ABS shows vs. some others I've been to is the quality and quantity of the work present. If it's anything like the Exop in San Antonio this last weekend, in quality, much of it will be amongst the best quality cuttlery you can find. In quantity, there won't be a ton. Many makers end up bringing 4 or 5 pieces at the most, some just 1 or 2. Some of it is going to be dependent upon who is allowed to get tables at the show.

I'll agree with Doc that the seminars can be very helpful even if you're not into forging. Usually there's several classes to choose from with topics ranging from handles to forging to photography to sheaths to collecting. I'll second Doc's sentiment that it's worth the time and money.

Good to shake your hand last weekend, BTW, Doc.

--nathan
 
silver_pilate said:
Rob, I wouldn't expect a giant show, but there will surely be many top makers in attendance......<snip>

--nathan
Click to expand...

Thanks Nathan, Today was terrific. I haven't attended this hammer-in for about 3 years and it is even better than ever. It just so nice to get out of the shop to attend events with other makers. I truly love hammer-ins!

It's been a great Friday and I can't wait to get back there in the morning.

-Rob
 
Thanks for the feedback.
It is 50/50 if I will be able to break free, but you all answered my question.
I will continue to look for opportunities like this.
 
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