Knife Show Etiquette...

[dirtyfonzie]

so, i will be attending my first knife show tomorrow. the aeca in oak lawn, il.

i am going there to try to learn as much as possible and maybe make a small purchase.

i go to a lot of flea markets ect. is haggling over price accepted at a knife show?

i don't really know what to acspect.

any tips on proper etiquette?

[garddogg56]

YEA Bring your MR. Johnny Cash avitar that is the best.I have that poster along with Mr Willie Nelson Oh yea ETIQUETTE Mmmmmm bring your sunday knife and don't pick yer knose

[chetr1200c]

why do you have to ask.. can't you act what is considered normal behavior.. most of the vendors have probably seen it all anyways

[pinnah]

any tips on proper etiquette?

Don't flip off people?

[dirtyfonzie]

thanks for all the advice.

my question was more whether to ask to handle a particular knife, negotiating, and finding reputable dealers. what questions to ask.

[garddogg56]

Dirtyfonz;feel them all up that's what their there for Have fun I know I allways do

[chetr1200c]

negotiating is always expected,, you never know what you can pay if you don't ask, all sellers want top dollar, but they also want to move their items.. and yes, if you want to know the fit and finish on a knife,, go right ahead and pick it up,, most will probably encourage you to do so.. but whatever you do,, never hold the knife in one hand and try to wobble the blade from side to side..
maybe the blade can take it,, but even the strongest blades will eventually work its way loose after prolonged abuse like that.......


and bring either lots of questions and money.......... or no questions

[dirtyfonzie]

thanks.

i ussually find most of my knives at garage, estate, and the flea market. my taste is just starting to get a lot more refined.

never been, so thats why i asked.

so, basically a flea market with all knives. im excited.

[chetr1200c]

i am going to a show next weekend in easton pa. usually i try and document just what i am looking for to augment my collection.
it never works out that way for me. i am too much of an addict to just follow a prescribed path.. a little lighter in the wallet when i leave,,but i do always have fun
good luck fonzie and welcome to the club

[wishful]

fonzie, Most dealers appreciate it if you ask to handle an expensive knife. That will give way to a better conversation, and possibly a better deal. Obviously, handle knives carefully and don't keep snapping them closed. Even though most dealers will wipe a knife off after it is handled, try to restrict finger prints on the metal. Good luck and have fun !

[FRJ]

Welcome.

Take a magnifiyng lenz, a small clean rag, ask to handle knives. hold knives over the table, bring the blades down, don't interupt a sale or a conversation. Enjoy a great inviornment.

[dirtyfonzie]

good stuff!

[SHAMAN]

Negotiation is okay. A lot of dealers get a little miffed with the guy who wants to see and open almost every knife in his case. Always ask before touching. Also, if you are quoted a price dont whip out a price guide. Usually there are a lot of free publications. Take all of them.
Have a great time.

[Paladin]

And don't forget to give us a report when you get back home. with pictures.

[dirtyfonzie]

just counting down the clock at work till 11 and leaving the office.

really excited, pics to come soon.

thanks to all for the advice.

[olderdogs1]

I think it is good form if you want to make a lower offer than his asking price to ask the seller of you can make an offer. If he is firm he is likely to tell you at that time or he may say sure, lets hear it. I don't think a dealer would expect you to make an offer without handling the knife. It is extremely bad form to buy a knife, then bring it back saying you noticed something wrong with the knife after you purchased it. Also don't interfere if the dealer is talking to someone else about a knife you may have an interest in. Wait your turn.
As a side note if it is a single spring knife don't open the blades on opposite ends at the same time. This could make one or both of you extemely unhappy. Most dealers welcome questions and some will even flag you down and ask what you collect. Overall lots of fun and very educational.
Tom

[dirtyfonzie]

had a great time, got some good deals, learned a ton, asked a lot of questions, and shoulda brought more money.

picked up a case xx and ec simmons keen kutter barlow. also grabbed a light daily carrier.

the show didn't seem too busy, but i showed up at noon on a friday.

once again, should brought more money

[philco]

I've never been to a knife show yet where I had enough money.



I'm not sure it's even possible.

[garddogg56]

That Keen-cutter is sweet