Knife shows

[B . Buxton]

Well fellows I just got back from a Knife and gun show in Springfield,Mo. I didn't have much luck at selling (just a couple) but I sure met some great people. Received a lot of great feedback on my knives. Met Leeroy Foster,a knifemaker that was quite interesting, and several makers from around the state.Late saturday afternoon Tom Willis stopped by my table and started commenting on my work, he said he had a little shop and made damascus, so I told him I had tried my luck at it with little success. Next thing he's inviting me to his shop (this fall) for some demonstration and guidance. Come to find out Mr. Willis teaches damascus making and is one of the premier makers in the state. I can't wait, knifemakers have to be some of the most generous people I know. But we all know that thanks to Don Fogg,Wayne Goddard,the late Bob Engath and many more and our own bladeforms Bruce Evans. Bruce, sure glad to hear your up and going again, Still waiting to see those new knife pictures.
I just want to say, if you have a knife and gun show coming close to where you live, rent a spot and go show your stuff, its darn good advertising and you'll meet some fine people. I LOVE THIS JOB.

Bill

 

[sharprhino]

hi guys, RHINOKNIVES here. had some problems with equitment so if you e-mailed me in the last week it is lost in syberspace. my website is the same through. it feel good to be able to post.

 

[Bruce Bump]

Bill, I know what you are talking about. I love the gun shows and set up at all the local ones. Its a low investment and high return of contacts. I have met so many good people that I couldnt count them all. Some of them buy knives also. The rent at the gun show compared to a knife show is usually lower. Blade Show West wants $495 for table rent. Ive never spent more than $50 for a gun show. I always at least break even finacially but take orders and make future customers.

 

[george tichbourne]

It usually takes a while for the public to get to know you and for you to get to know the local tastes. I went to a lot of shows before I developed a regular clientel. It gets darned depressing none the less in the mean time.