Post #147255 by Monkeyman on Wed, Mar 16, 2005 2:48 PM

You can get a excellent assortment of tools from online providers so seeing them in person is not that important (Lee Valley, Rockler etc).

What I would do is check out the wood stores here in San Diego County.

Frost Hardwood in San Diego has a huge selection of exotic lumber at fairly competitive prices. http://www.frosthardwood.com

Cut and Dried Hardwood in Solana Beach has an excellent selection of exotic woods and carving stock. The also have a tremendous library of books from cabinet making to carving. They also sell some tools. http://www.cutanddriedhardwood.com

Tropical Exotic Hardwoods in Carlsbad has some excellent and rare wood both in lumber and carving/turning stock. The owners kida smug but he has some wonderful stuff.http://www.anexotichardwood.com/