lee valley sets up a smart booth at a show.
They have all the products handsomely displayed in open display. Each item can be examined close up, and they have a work bench set up with wood so you can try out a plane.
I believe alot of woodworkers unfamiliar with hand planes and their different uses shy away from approaching the sales reps only because noone wants to show how ignorant or unexperienced they might be, and well, woodworkers are for sure in a class all by themselves.
OFcourse, Ive overcome my shyness and Im not concerned anymore with what a pro woodworker thinks of my skills. Im fighting time now, and when I need something, I need to go and ask questions.
I noticed the Lee Valley guys and gals sorta laid back and watched as Ken went over each detail, and I mean every single little detail of this plane, explained things to me, uh, maybe like 5 times(Im dense on hand tools), and set me straight. He didnt notice, there was a group of people watching him give me a lesson on shoulder plane use and router plane use.
Woodworkers unfamiliar with hand planes, need people like Ken to patiently show and teach, as I believe many more would approach hand tools instead of forgetting about them.
Being with Ken in a Lee Valley booth, well, the boy is at home, surrounded by all his little friends. He knows his stuff, all his stuff.
Got a scraper also.
(only 124 more to go and Ill catch up to Jim)