!*!*!*!*!*!*! LFS or ONLINE STORE VISITS !*!*!*!*!*!*!

[JBradford]

I visit my LFS one a week at least sometimes more if I feel like harassing the owner. Never bought online. So I can't compare.

 

[KingBlingTX]

As @Diesel mentioned, we have several decent LFS around the Houston area. There are several I would buy from and a few I won't. My favorite LFS store for corals is Oceanlife Aquariums. I like to buy dry goods from LFS when I can to support them. However, there are times for convenience or because the LFS doesn't carry an item in stock that I will order from an online vendor. I've ordered from Bulk Reef Supply, Dr Fosters & Smith, and Marineland in the past.

I always buy fish from a LFS because I want to see it in person before purchasing it. I do periodically order corals from online vendors such as Jason Fox and Battle Corals.

 

[cshplumber]

As @Diesel mentioned, we have several decent LFS around the Houston area. There are several I would buy from and a few I won't. My favorite LFS store for corals is Oceanlife Aquariums. I like to buy dry goods from LFS when I can to support them. However, there are times for convenience or because the LFS doesn't carry an item in stock that I will order from an online vendor. I've ordered from Bulk Reef Supply, Dr Fosters & Smith, and Marineland in the past.

I always buy fish from a LFS because I want to see it in person before purchasing it. I do periodically order corals from online vendors such as Jason Fox and Battle Corals.

I've purchased dry goods online but never livestock. I live in So Cal, I can think of 12 locals and maybe 8 more that are a little out of the way. My job takes me all over S.D. so I drive by at least 1 a day and always stop to see what's new. There are some where I always leave with at least a $5. frag but if it's close to the end of the day and I'm heading home it can be trouble.

 

[Mr. Comer]

There is this shady guy down the street that has some nice corals id like (just pokin at you Disel). For me it's Oceanlife for almost everything except dry goods (BRS) and buying from from our local club members.

 

[bairdimusprime]

i'm fortunate to have several fantastic LFS's under an hour drive from me so i tend to shop LFS.
that saying the few online vendors I've dealt with (all through R2R) have been fantastic.
but in my opinion its best to be able to see what you're purchasing live.