Well, that was a bit underwhelming. Forst of, it was, believe it or not, twelve bucks to walk in the door. Twelve! Thats, like, groceries for two days!
There were, maybe, about 30 vendors…there was the usual assortment of nylon gear and books. Also, beekeeping stuff, a couple realotors, some medical stuff, pocket stoves, essential oils, and a few other staples of these kinds of shows. But…all in all, not worth the drive and definitely not worth the price of admission.
On the other hand, I did try to salvage the trip by hitting a few gun stores and came across a place that had a a few 2nd Gen Glocks for sale for $300 ea.. so, not a total loss.
To be fair, this was the first time this sort of thing was held there and perhaps that accounts for the less than impressive showing of vendors, but if it isn’t significantly larger next year I’ll save my money and stay here in little ol’ Montana.
No, it wasn’t the first “expo” – but it sure is pricier than the one I went to a few years ago. I think I paid $5 or $6. Sounds the same – about 30 vendors. Mostly for stuff I either already had or had decided I didn’t need. The one I went to had a couple of lectures – nothing that I hadn’t heard before since I’ve been reading & learning about preparedness since the late ’70s.
If you were told this was the first one, then maybe a different outfit put it on. It was at the fairgrounds, right? Which is where it’s been held for several years now.
CZ I’m sorry you had a negative experience, both times the Self Relience Expo has shown up locally I’ve enjoyed it and learned a few things. True the vendors aren’t great (I loved the tinfoil hattery) but I have found vendors close to home for products that I would normally have shipped (great for showing up in person and using cash).
Mostly I go for the local gardening experience. Grows from my area and climate who know have figured out what not to do give lectures and I scribble notes like mad.
The expo around me has flyers that usually have a free or reduced price coupon on them for the entry fee. Might look for that next time.