Joe,
Blade West last year was my first "Knife" show, though I'd been to, and worked probably 20+ "Gun" shows. I've been to 3 other major "Knife" shows since then.
My advice would be to first determine "exactly" what you want, and what (how much) you're willing to spend for it.
Secondly, get a listing of the folks that are going to be displaying their knives at the Tulsa show, and see if any of those makers or purveyors will have the knives that you're interested in.
Research the knife prices and products before you go, "do your homework" if you will...
Make a Nametag that shows your name and interests....this is primarily for other "Civilians" that you may run into at the show.
Save your money for the show! Nothing sucks worse than going to a knife show with no money....worst yet would be to not go at all, just because you blew your "wad"
We've been very aggressive in our knife collecting over the last two years, nearly 100 high end knives bought...but in 2 of 4 shows, we bought nothing.
We had other knives lined up if we didn't find anything at the "show", and twice that was the case...nonetheless, you'll be feeling better at the show, more confident possibly, if you have a pocket full of cash.....and you'll be in a better bargaining position as well.
You may find knives you like, you may not, but your options will be open, and you'll have more knives to choose from than you might normally.
Even if you don't buy at the show, it's a great way to meet the folks in the "bidness", and you can always make a purchase from them later.
Save your cash, make a list, go to the show, and if you're still "looking" for knives after the show, you can always buy here...
when handling the knives.