First Knife Show...need advice.

[Fleetwood]

Well I'm going to my first ever knife show here in about a month. What do I need to know? I know what I'm looking for and feel like I've got a pretty good handle on the basics, but does anyone have any tips on how to get the best deals. Honestly, I'm really not that great of a haggler when it comes to dealing. Any advice?

[singin46]

Bout all I can tell ya is if you feel the seller is too high just ask if he would take less for the knife. If he acts like a jerk, just walk away. Most good knifers will actually talk to ya and enjoy it. IMO, no question is a stupid one if you don't know the answer. I've met a lot of great dealers over the years and can always tell if someone is engaging or not.

[troyl2]

yeh take $20 with you and leave your wallet at home.

[singin46]

LOL! True true!

[rangerbluedog]

Make your first purchase a good knife book.
Look on ebay for the average selling price of the knife you're looking for.
Nothing more dangerous at a knife show than an educated buyer.

I'm a terrible haggler myself. All I do is know what I can get the knife for elsewhere. If I think a price is too high, I'll make the seller a reasonable offer. If he doesn't like my offer, I walk away. Just be patient and don't let your emotions make your purchasing decision for you.

[Tom Hudson]

Well I'm going to my first ever knife show here in about a month. What do I need to know? I know what I'm looking for and feel like I've got a pretty good handle on the basics, but does anyone have any tips on how to get the best deals. Honestly, I'm really not that great of a haggler when it comes to dealing. Any advice?

Hi Fleetwood - I'm on the other side of the table from you. Been working shows over 40 years - Every maker or vendor is different - I try to price my work at the best price i can - My prices on my engraving, Hand-made knives & Customized knives are firm - For a fully customized Case Trapper with file work, Stag & engraving i charge $125.00 - 15 years ago i charged $125.00 for the same knife! with that being said if i'm talking to a good guy & he's interested in 2 or 3 knives i might cut a person a deal - don't forget the maker has sometimes drove a long ways to the show - wear & tear on his vehicle - gas - motel bill & has to pay the promoter for the table which can run 75 dollars to a few hundred - so some of the guy's really need to sell something to recover some of his or her expence - they might be more willing to cut their prices - i'll haggle on antique knives, thats part of the old knife business but this is how i make my living - I agree that most knife people will take the time to talk & share imformation with you - Once in a while there will be a maker or vender who is love with himself but thats really rare - Take a pocket full of money - enjoy the show - take your time, make a couple of laps around - if you see something you really like you better get it on the 1st lap - might not be there the second lap again - enjoy the show! - Tom

[gmusic]

You're in for a treat.................shows are great! Just talk with folks like you know them already. No BS, just be up front and honest no mater your dealings, most folks will return the favor.

Have fun...............................

[remington collector]

Are you going to the Dixie Gun + Knife Show in Wilksboro? I'll be there. I didn't realize I had a neighbor here on AAPK.

[gino]

If you see a knife you just must have, get it fast. Otherwise the guy after you will. It has happened to me before more than once.

[Joe Dirt]

Take a Jewelers Loop with you so you can see the stamps and other details.

........ Joe

[Luckypaul777]

I think Tom hit it on the head; "Take a pocket full of money - enjoy the show - take your time, make a couple of laps around - if you see something you really like you better get it on the 1st lap - might not be there the second lap again - enjoy the show!"

I have been to many shows and nothing works like a hand full of $100. Be realistic you can't expect seller to give it away; he knows what his bottom price is and it's usually less than what he is asking. I like to get in as quick as the show is open to the public. Have a general idea what you are looking for; not like a kid in a candy store.

Paul

[Knife Nut]

I've been to many knife shows over the past 30 years. My best advice is to take it all in.
95% of the dealers are truly nice people that want to help you with information and share their knife knowledge. Ask questions in a courtious way, don't butt in if the dealer is helping someone else. Take some type of magnification to check out the knives your interested in. Even if you don't make a single purchase, it will be a great educational experience.
Have a great time!

Paul

[singin46]

What gmusic said.

[peshikthe]

have fun ,talk alot, listen more and enjoy.

[Fleetwood]

Thanks for the advice guys. I really appreciate it! Yes Remington Collector, I'll be at the one in Wilkesboro. Where are you in NC?

[remington collector]

I'm just off 194, across from Railroad Grade Road.

[MrBlister]

Ozzie Marie gave me this wonderful advice....
If ya DONT see what yer lookin for, ASK..........
cuz they have a lot of stuff NOT out on a table