I have for several months now been waiting rather impatiently to go to my first Pen Show in DC. Now I have a dilema, well a nice one at least. Fahrney's here in the DC area is having a warehouse sale this week. Up to 60%, I am not affiliated with them, but now I don't know whether to spend my pitence (spelling?) at this sale or hold on until August. Are the deals this great at the show? I am just beginning in this obssession and need some advice. Show? Sale? Both? Ah, such sweet agony, Caz

I love that feeling of anticipation too. Go to both the sale and the show if you have the time. Regarding pen shows, go to Richard Binder’s website, click on Reference Info and then scroll down to his posting under Pen Shows entitled, “Your First Pen Show”. Excellent advice – just what we’ve come to expect from Mr. Binder.

My limited experience at pen shows is there are good and, occasionally, very good deals there. Deals come and go, though. At both the sale and the show, take your time, browse around, and experience what the reviews can’t provide: how different pens look to you in person and feel in your hand. This will help inform your decisions on how to spend the money you’ve budgeted. You have all the time you need to put together a nice collection of pens that will give you enjoyment every day for years to come. Or perhaps just one pen will do it …nah, silly me.

Have fun, Caz

J.D.

I would definitely wait. Fahrney's has some good deals but I imagine the pen show will offer more good deals and a better overall experience.

Thanks folks for your comments and wonderful help as always. I have read Richard's page, very helpful. Looking forward to a DC trip this week and the Pen Show in August. Hope to see some of you there. Best Regards, Caz

I live in the DC Metro area, but that week I'll be out of town!

Fortunately, my wife is agreeable to visiting Columbus during the weekend of *their* pen show, in November I believe.