For discussions sake, I wonder what everyone's take is on all the blank sales and discounts that seem to be everywhere these days. I know it means I can get good deals on blanks that cost me twice as much last year, but does it signal problems or sagging business in the rod building industry???

Also with the advent of all the free information available on the internet these days, are rod building shows redundant at this point?? What am I going to get in Charlotte or anywhere else that I can't already get in the magazine or on this or other websites??

Not trying to start arguments, just curious what others' takes on these situations are.

I want to watch the masters at work. I want to hold and feel different rod blanks. I'd like to see the new innovations that seem to be coming out near daily at times... and I want to meet in person some of these wonderful people that I've met here, online.
Putter

In my opinion, dealers cut their own throats when they discount product or constantly engage in "sales." Of course, nothing is ever quite that cut and dry. The best you can do as a consumer is take advantage of the savings and don't look a gift horse in the mouth.

I think informal regional rod building gatherings will always be popular with a few because it's a great way to meet other builders in your local area and swap ideas and the like. It's just easier to do this in person with several other builders than doing it over the phone, by email or chat room. I don't think these type gatherings are going away.

Something like Charlotte is a different deal altogether. The size and scope of the show means you can get things there you can't get elsewhere. What can you get in Charlotte that you can't get elsewhere in the magazine or the internet? Well, I don't think you can put your hands on that much product, shake that many blanks, or query that many manufacturers and dealers via a magazine or the internet. So there's one for you.

The next thing is being able to see the various demonstrations and seminars in person. You may already be adept at most of the subject matter that will be presented - I won't presume to know what your current rod building abilities are. But neither the magazine nor the internet lets you see any of these things hands on, or ask immediate questions of the people doing the presentations. Granted, a year's worth of RodMaker has far more information than any show does, but it's a totally different form of presentation.

Nor can you meet as many rod builders, in person, as you can at a show the size of Charlotte. If you enjoy that sort of thing. Some do, some don't.

The cost to attend Charlotte, including access to the show floor along with all the seminars and demonstrations is just $12 for one day, or $20 for two. So other than your travel and lodging expenses (you have to eat no matter where you are, so let's not factor food into this) it should be a tremendous value all things considered.

If you're driving in, you can take advantage of special show prices and pick up items that you might not quickly find elsewhere. Again, that may or may not interest you.

Obviously, the overall size of a show factors into the value aspect of such things. More products, more people, more demonstrations, etc., for the same or less money also contributes to greater vallue. Then again, some enjoy smaller, more personal venues.

Ultimately, whether or not such a show offers enough value to offset the price of admission, travel expense, etc., is something each person has to decide for themselves.

..............

I know there a deals all over the net. Some are good deals. What I would do is make sure I was dealing with a company that has a good reputation and what their guarantee is on your satisfaction of the product.

As for shows, you can be book smart, but nothing can compare with hands on and being able to discuss the qualities of a product face to face with a rep. or the way a certain pattern weave is done. I always pick up a new procedure on some thing. I know there are lots off excellent sharing on the net. You still can not beat hands on.
Good Wraps Bob

Not to mention if you plan on purchasing there you can save a lot of $$$ on shipping costs. I wish I were in the financial situation to be able to attend but my better half wont allow it this year. Too many other trips taken

In my 72 years of life, I have found finding a good reliable supplier for anything, is the way to go. When you find them, be loyal and stick with them and thy will be loyal to you. Sometimes it cost you more, but it is worth it. John Butterfield

I have a year less experience than Mr. Butterfield but I agree with him whole heartedly. That means you have a total of 143 years of advice for your consideration and benefit. Stan Grace

John

It only took me 20 years to learn that, and I've been practicing it for the past 28. Good words of advise.

Sometimes low cost is not always the best option.