Have you ever noticed that the better 'friend' you are to the local guys the better pricing you get..

when i originally got into the hobby i walked into my LHS and got a good package at a decent price. but the discount was probably only 5%. and i really had to bargain for it.

now on my $$#%^ plane (coded just incase the wifes looking) i do even ask for a price i "know" he will look after me.

on an average i get between 10 - 15% without even asking.

but the thing is I now dont care because i realised that while ive been a part of this hobby this guy has probably spent hours and hours answering questions chasing products and prices and giving general advice.

I've got my moneys worth out of this guy just from his advice, so in my mind the planes and gear are free