Anyone been to the PA TimberExpo?

[Brad_S.]

I enjoyed Sawlex but was a little disappointed in the small number of exhibitors there. I'm wondering if there is anyone who visited Sawlex who has also been to the Timber Expo in the past and can compare the two as far as size and quality. Thanks.
http://patimbershow.cas.psu.edu

[Tom]

That was Sawlex's first experience at Niles.   It would probably be unfair to compare it to an established show.  If the support is there, the Niles, Ohio site may end up being a good spot for that area of the country.  As it turns out, it is a long way for a Florida boy. 

Support is what makes these shows.  If people begin showing up then the exhibitors Will show up too.   So many of the shows have priced themselves out of exhibitors.  The cost to the exhibitors can be exorbitant.  Many shows lose out on advertising too. It's amazing to me that there isn't more Internet advertising, what with the abundance of forums and State Forestry sites.

Sawlex's big draw was the shootout.  If the producers develop some stability in location,  that will be a big draw.

[Brad_S.]

Tom,
I agree, it will only grow in the future. But I am looking to replace my loader trailer, and expected to see more of these units. I'd also like to see the latest from other mill manufactures besides the few at Sawlex. I'm not knocking Sawlex, just trying to decide whether to make the trip to the PA show or actually get some work done what with the temperature finally due to drop to a more reasonable level by the weekend. I don't know how you southern guys get anything done all summer long!

[Ron Wenrich]

The PA show only comes around every other year.  I was at the one 2 years ago in Harrisburg.

PA used to have some really good shows.  Most of them were held at the Bloomsburg Fairgrounds.  The last one had quite a few of the bandmills on exhibit and several firewood processors.

Here's a list of this years exhibitors:  http://patimbershow.cas.psu.edu/ExhibitList.html

You'll find that there are distributors of bigger equipment at the PA show, which seemed lacking at SAWLEX.  For loader trucks, Hubler Bros will be there.  They sell Prentice loaders, trailers, and other logging equipment.  Lyons Equipment will also be there. 

As for mills, there are only a few bandmills.  The larger equipment is represented a little bit better, with Kline, Deacon, McDonough, and the like being present.  Most don't have any equipment running, but can answer lots of questions. 

[maple flats]

Haven't been to the PA show, but the NYS woodsman's Field Days has a lot more exhibitors, has been running for over 50 years in Boonville NY. For this one look it up on the calendar for mid Aug and there is a link. You will see lots of loaders and trucks, trailers etc. along with most mills, firewood processers and a lumberjack competition that draws competitors from all over the US and Canada and some from Europe as well. Warning though, this is a really well attended show and there are big crouds, but that is also why the venders are there.

[Brad_S.]

Ron,
Thank you, that is just the kind of comparison info I was looking for. Still up in the air about making the haul there, but I'm sorely tempted.

mapleflats,
I usually catch Booneville every other year, so I'm due this year. Definitely a pretty comprehensive show. Speaking of big shows, have you been to Empire Farm Days in Seneca Falls? A minimum of sawmills and logging equipment, but if you're into agriculture or just plain a fan of BIG farm equipment, it's well worth a visit. Even some evaporator manufacturers there. It's usually the week before Booneville.

[racer9]

I was at sawlex, and am also going to Timber 2005, on Friday. I had a good time at Youngstown, but was hoping for some larger equipment, such as skiddders, and trucks to be there.
I attend Ag Progress Days every year, and this will be a great site for the timber show.

  Quite a few good places to eat in down town State College PA, also.

[Ron Wenrich]

The Phyrst   ;D

I was in State College last week and Youngstown the week before.  Think I'll stay home this week.

[Ironwood]

I have been to scarce few events but did like the Paul Bunyan Fest in Nelsonville Ohio last fall. Just my two cent.