Columbus Woodworking Show Question

[Scraper]

I have recently moved back into the Central Ohio area. I saw an ad for the upcoming Columbus Woodworking Show. Was wondering if anyone had been to it and what their thoughts were. I am a rookie with a few basic tools, but have hope to someday be a rookie with really nice tools. What can I expect from the show? Good deals on tools? Supplies? Good place to pick up some knowledge? (The ad I saw wasn't very specific.)

Thanks for the help, S.

[Larry Kraus]

You should probably go at least once, just to satisfy your curiosity. Expect some good demonstrations, crowds, long lines, so-so deals. Most prices can be matched online, though sometimes the show-only price includes a video or an extra accessory. If you want something specific, know your prices before you go. This may be your only chance to put your hands on a Veritas plane without buying one or going to Canada. Eat before you go - the concession prices are outrageous. Parking is $4-5 dollars, though I think Rockler is offering to pay for it with a $30 show purchase. Even if you do not go to the show, Woodwerks (for REALLY nice tools) is offering 10% off most everything in the store that same weekend...

[Dave Jackson]

I go the show every year, and will attend this year as well. I wouldn't expect any great deals, but there are some good ones. The prices are generally close to street prices, but you often get some freebies thrown in. If not, ask for some! There generally are several vendor demonstrations going on at once and Marc Adams will be there this year offering some classes. Here's a link to the event:

have the full brochure I got in the mail if your need more info. After paying for parking and admission, enter the show and look to your right. You should see a restroom sign. In front of that sign there is usually a beer vendor cleverly disguised as a pretzel stand. Get yourself a cold one and do some tool shopping! Nothing better in the world than enjoying a beer while shopping for power tools! --dave

[Karl]

I will be there also...been to the last two...no biggies on tool specials. Watch yourself if you have to ask product vendors specific questions. Last year I asked the Delta people a specific machine question and they told me they didn't know and were just hired to promote products and not answer tech questions. They tried to give me a brochure that was 2 years old also...

The one thing that I want to see if the gentleman showing how to create some simple products featured in Wood magazine. I am especially interested in the mantel clock since I was going to make this last summer but had questions on how to do some of the cuts so I am looking forward to watching him do the cuts and asking questions.

There are also the misc info commercial products there also. Very interesting to see the demos in person just to prove to yourself the items are pieces of junk whether on TV or in person.

Karl

Scraper wrote:

[Dave Jackson]

It'd be nice to meet some other local columbus wood workers at the show. I'm currently laid off (almost like being retired, except the benefits will run out sooner!) so I am available about anytime. I planned on going friday morn, but that can change. Maybe a bunch of us could grab a bite before or after the show? Anyway, I'm at OHtoolman at yahoo dot com. Hope to hear from some fellow WW's --dave