planejoy

Sounds like it's a "Must Have" and destined to become quite worn in my hands!

As with any issue, there are at least two sides to this story, and we've only heard one, or just part of one, side. That said, you simply can't ship stock and tell the retailer it's all up to them -- it's a partnership.

If you want to sell anything, you need to teach at least one person at each store on how to demonstrate the use, strengths, and care of the product. One can't assume that all salespeople have had the opportunity to personally use and know everything about everything sold in their store. In woodworking, as with many things, there's usually more than one way to achieve the same result. The decision between products usually is based on a user's knowledge, biases, specific application, and circumstances.

It's also incumbent on a manufacturer to ensure appropriate product display. Some manufacturers go so far as to provide display cabinets, ensuring their products will be shown the way they feel is best. Demonstration and demo units for customers to try are both part of "pre-sales product support." As a customer, I have noticed that this is usually correlated with good "post-sales support." If necessary, I will wait until I have enough saved to buy the more expensive product, but you have to convince me that's it's appropriate for my size, abilities, and application.

A friendlier neighbor upstairs, one who doesn't care if I make a little noise as I work early or late on my projects.

Also wanted: More time! More lumber!

SLIGHTLY more realistically: A Veritas or L-N Low-Angle Jack Plane (if L-N, a "hot dog" handle to go with it too), a Veritas Low-Angle Block Plane with additional Small Tote and Front Knob, a Gramercy Tools Bow Saw.