re: booking a hunt at an industry trade show... yes or no?

yea. i have it narrowed down to 4 outfitters. im going to pay 5-10% more even if it only helps me sleep at night. i was to give myself the best chance if im going take on something like this. one suggested if i was flexible on my date to get on a cancel list. i could save around 5K but would have very short notice if something came up. i don't think i'm willing to chance something like that. i would also like to talk to these people in person. i guess thats only for the warm and fuzzy feeling i expect when im about to hand them a check of this size.

ETA: ive also spoken to a couple of "brokers" who say they do not charge anything for their service and it would cost no more booking through them than through an outfitter direct. these people were referred to me through the wild sheep foundation. Jack Atcheson and Sons and Safari Outfitters. obviously they are going to push their preferred clients but at the same time they would have such good reputations if they used 2nd tier outfitters. its just really hard finding an objective opinion since i don't know anyone who has a lot of experience on hunts like this.
i know its entirely possible but you talk about a shitty feeling going on one of these hunts and coming back with nothing.