Just out of curiosity.... is it like a mad dash over to the popular knife maker's tables (ie. Hinderer, Strider, Les George) when the door opens? I haven't had a chance to attend one yet but I always wonder how chaotic it must be.
I enjoy the shows (Atlanta Blade, Shot Show, etc...) and attend on a yearly basis. My observation is that if you have not already cut a deal with the maker of your choice for the knife of your choice, prior to the start of the show you are way behind the curve. In many cases, dealers will get first look and opportunity to buy at the social events preceding the show.