I am curious about the Blade SHow. I have heard about it and understand where and when it is, but I have received conflicting information from people I respect.

Both parties know what my collecting interest are - Randalls and Vietnam-Gulf War tactical knives. One says I would be happiest at the SOS show in Louisville and the other says the Blade Show in Atlanta. I've not attended either and can't afford to make both in the same year.

I must add I don't have much interest in newly made knives.

What do you experienced folks recommend?

Thanks.

rimfire

I’m not familiar with the SOS show, hard to believe there would be another show with more available knives than Blade??
Might have to check it out, for curiosities sake..

The SOS is sponsored by the Ohio Valley Military Collectors and is primarily military collectors. The folks I spoke of know my collecting habits and said I wouldn't find many vintage knives at the Blade SHow in Atlanta.

I'm a victim of conflicting opinions.

rimfire

That is, quite simple...to put it mildly, not the case! The international blade fair (The Blade Show) is the "largest" cutlery show in the entire world! There'll plenty of militaria cutlery to find there! I cannot address the Ohio show...but I've been doing "Hotlanta" for decades....It's a splendid knife show...for "all" things cutlery.
Best, Capt. Chris

I have been to every Blade show since they moved to Atlanta and about 7 SOS shows. Without exception the Blade show is better. The SOS show does have some Randalls, and most that you see are older and typically have a military association. But the Blade show a lot more older knives and you have the benefit of new knives as well. I only do Randalls and am always looking for older knives. I stopped doing the SOS show years ago. Hope this helps your decision.

Thank you both, Capt. Chris and Gary. I figure you two know way more than the other opinions I have. You guys are certainly A-list when it comes to information.

rimfire

I like both shows. I picked up the nicest Tenite I ever owned at the SOS. I’ve also picked up many old dandy military knives at the Blade show. I’ve also sold a ton of old military Randall’s at the SOS. However I think the Blade Show should be your first show to do. You will not regret it.
Here are a couple of shots of my table a couple of years ago at the SOS. Some nice Randallin that box.

What?!? No more pics from other attendees?

Thanks Ronnie...

You bet.