The choice of 'shops' I buy my knives are from, for where I am are:
1st-
A commercial equipment supplier where I get an additional 10% off on already very cheap wholesale (trade) prices.
(For example my F Dick Combi Steel I paid AUD$192 after discount from a 'trade-retail' shop which I had to order in and wait two months for, later I found it there on display and in stock for AUD$165 before discount at the commercial equipment supplier.:crazy::crazy:)
If you can ask the chefs at your school, they'll point out where locally and easily to get knives, uniforms and other equipment at proper trade prices.
My school had a tool kit available at a decent price, has everything needed for the course, eventhough I already had a neat collection of knives I got it anyway because the little-bitty items (eg. whisks, cookie cutters, dough scrapers,...) was too much a waste of time and money to running around for the best prices in retail shops and in correct spec.
As you cook more and go through the variety of cooking and service methods, you'll find other tools better suited to your style and you upgrade and acquire as you go.
Uniforms- Our chef pointed out to us where to get uniforms that are more or less half price the nearest competitor, for example if I'm getting 5 jackets I could easily save at least AUD$80.
2nd- For Japanese knives,
Japanese Chef's Knife. Great product range, tasty prices, US$7 flat rate EMS shipping per order, helpful staff.
3rd-
eBay, hunting needed. Very much a game of luck, even if you have the time to bid.
4th-
Retail outlets- some offer better prices than other retail outlets on certain items, but since you are paying them for them to have that $$$ convienent retail space. Unnecessary $$$ passed on to you to pay for.
