bl4

Thanks, all.

I've never used Sideline Swap, but I've noticed that a lot of folks on MSH seem to use it (or, at least to check it out for pro stock offerings). Perhaps a silly question, but how receptive do sellers tend to be to negotiating/fielding lower offers? Of course, I realize that this varies seller to seller - I've bought and sold on ebay plenty of times. But I just wondered if there are any norms on the site (at least among hockey sellers). I don't want to be a jerk by showing up and lowballing if that's viewed as bad form, but I also would rather not pay sticker if it's not necessary. Thanks!

As a big fan of the Lidstrom/Leetch/Getzlaf style heel curve (which I, too, believe is pretty similar to what you were using), I think you'll find the Drury a bit different from what you were used to. The Drury (and similar patterns) is more of a wedge - i.e., the're a slight heel curve, but the most noticeable feature of the blade is how open it is. The Lidstrom is open as well, but perhaps a bit less so and with a bigger curve. FWIW, I like the Drury pattern, particularly for rising slap shots. But I personally find the wedge style to be a bit more unwieldy for puckhandling, particularly if you're someone who likes to break out a toe drag now and again.