- Joined
- Jan 23, 2007
- Messages
- 8,216
Shane, my one small bit of advice would be to go to one major show. The Blade Show in Atlanta (May 29-31, 2009) may be too far for you, and let's face it, flight costs ain't cheap these days. But it offers the broadest selection of custom makers you will find in any one show in the US.
There is also the Blade Show West in Portland (closer to you), scheduled for Sept 11-13, 2009. I have never attended it, but perhaps others here can give you an idea of how worthwhile it might be for your needs.
There is just nothing that can come close to meeting the maker, seeing his/her knives and grabbing and holding them (the knives, not the makers).
The only other advice I would give is a re-iteration of some advice already given here. It's so easy to buy this and buy that - only to find out a couple years later that you have knives you don't want and can't sell. Educating yourself, even if it costs a little bit of money, will save you bucks in the long run.
One of the founding principles of the CKCA is education of the collector. Everyone involved in the Association is always willing to help another member out with questions, etc - so you might want to consider investing the few dollars it takes to join.
Good luck!
Bob
There is also the Blade Show West in Portland (closer to you), scheduled for Sept 11-13, 2009. I have never attended it, but perhaps others here can give you an idea of how worthwhile it might be for your needs.
There is just nothing that can come close to meeting the maker, seeing his/her knives and grabbing and holding them (the knives, not the makers).
The only other advice I would give is a re-iteration of some advice already given here. It's so easy to buy this and buy that - only to find out a couple years later that you have knives you don't want and can't sell. Educating yourself, even if it costs a little bit of money, will save you bucks in the long run.
One of the founding principles of the CKCA is education of the collector. Everyone involved in the Association is always willing to help another member out with questions, etc - so you might want to consider investing the few dollars it takes to join.
Good luck!
Bob
