Trade show visit

[sheathmaker]

I just got back from the Boot and Saddle Maker's Trade Show in Wichita Falls, Texas.. I got to visit with a lot on my old friends including Barry King, Bob Beard, the guys from Leather Machine Co. (Cobra), Jerry Van Amburg, and many others including the gang from Weaver Leather.

I got a big bundle of exotics from Jerry Van Amburg. I bought five or six of the very best small Nile Crocs I've seen. The tannage is outstanding and the hides are flawless and the price was very reasonable. As always I stocked up on Shark skins, buying four each in black and brown and a new "mottled" grey/black that will go with anything black or dark. Also picked up 150 Sam Browne studs just so I don't run out.

Chuck Smith tools has a new little gadget that is fascinating. It is primarily for punching lace slots, but could easily be used for punching hand stitch holes as well. The slot blade is fully adjustable for positioning 360 degrees and there is also an adjustment to lock in distance from the edge, and a stitch length adjustment. It functions a la pump handle action and with an accurate automatic advance to the next hole position. If I did any hand stitching, or lacing I would definitely have come home with this. It's $495, but if you do a lot of stitch/lace it would amortize quickly.

Really a good couple of days and an excellent chance to pick up staple supplies and new stuff.

Paul

 

[knifeleather]

Sounds like a good trip Paul. One of these days I'll make it out to that show, I swear!
BTW got my Cobra 14, sweeeet!!
Mark

 

[Horsewright]

Sounds great Paul! We've got Wickenburg tentatively on the schedule for Feb. Owe ya a call.

 

[ljparsons]

Nice to visit with you Paul. We never ran across each other again and I had to leave. I'll give you a call one of these days. Larry.

 

[sheathmaker]

Larry, I looked for you the rest of the day Friday, but I was really glad to put a face with your name.

Paul

 

[dbl-edge]

This show is always fun and even better because it is nearly in my backyard! I picked up several items that I "needed" and, as always, enjoyed the company of fine, encouraging men like Paul, Jerry and Josh! - Nita

 

[sheathmaker]

This show is always fun and even better because it is nearly in my backyard! I picked up several items that I "needed" and, as always, enjoyed the company of fine, encouraging men like Paul, Jerry and Josh! - Nita

As a matter of fact the very best part of the show ​was in her back yard. Nita and David hosted a very lovely dinner Friday night featuring freshly caught Idaho fish and famous fresh out of the field Idaho baked potatoes courtesy Of Jerry Van Amburg of Blackfoot, Idaho.

Lots of good friends and dinner on the patio…..doesn't get better than that!

Thanks again, Nita and David

Added: NITA, show some of your sheath work here!!!!!…..Please!

Paul