We were given a very thorough and enjoyable tour by Pat Vroman and he discussed the basic operations and processes involved in producing a knife. The only think he wouldn't get into too much was the bone dying and jigging, except for to say it was all done in house which I knew.
As we made our way through the factory I noticed baskets of whalers with bone scales that will probably go out this week. They looked great. After the tour our host Ryan Daniels invited us all outside for a pig roast. We had a really nice lunch on the grounds and I had the opportunity to speak to Ryan one on one for quite awhile. I can see how GEC has gotten where they are with the enthusiasm, knowledge and friendliness of Ryan Daniels. He made us feel like we were guests for lunch in his home.
The way the factory is set up you can view the entire operation on the factory floor from the second floor walkway which is all plexi glass walls. All the rooms on the second floor are open to view too so you can see the entire operation except for the assembling room which Pete took us to and demonstrated assembling a knife.
It was a really great experience visiting GEC, I'll be going back next year. I'll post my purchases on the mail call thread.
...and you got a Whale....I'm not jealious... 
I don't think he ever even said, I just heard someone call to him. Thank you for the correction. He was amazing.
Evidently that's a good way to check for genuine ivory. 
