NCCA had a knife show about a 1/2 hour from my home today.  Mostly it was collectors and sellers of collectible & production knives with a few guys that are making some very nice stock removal knives.  Nobody seemed to be forging blades...but I did come up with a few great finds on handle material.

Trying to find some interesting handle material for my newly forged Kesslar/tippit blade, I met this fellow (originally from the UK) who had switched for large knives to folders.  He pulled out some India Stag in slabs that was Magnificent and Large   :eek:    He said he'd had it for some years and couldn't use it anymore...well there didn't seem to be any makers interested and I got a very good deal  

Also came across some micarta blocks in a light jade color 2"x5"x3/4".  It was the type of thing you'd just walk by and not pay any attention...except he had a small hunter with thin scales.  The stuff was translucent compared to other paper or canvas micarta.  At $2.00 per block, I picked a few to try.  I think it will make a very pretty lades blade.

I also got to see and hold a couple Winkler blades and saw some interesting new file work designs.  All in all I had a great time day.  Plus I felt a little like a kid at Halloween with my goody bag heading home...tippit

I know the feeling, Jeff.
I am ALWAYS in "material mode".
Everywhere I go, everything I'm doing, doesn't matter, I am ALWAYS keeping my eyes open for a steel supply, wrought iron, unique and interesting handle material, etc.
Sometimes it can really pay off!

Sounds like you had a great time indeed!  I'm anticipating your new knife debut!
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IN GOD WE TRUST