For those who dare, eBay is always an option.

I had the unfortunate luck of finding a wood supplier who lives just a mile or so from my house (no shipping charges).

http://stores.ebay.com/Chits-Exotic-...QQftidZ2QQtZkm

Chit always has a good selection of exotics and most auctions start at $3.80, so it is a great way to try out a few different kinds of wood with just a little investment.

A lot of his auctions are for shorts (smaller pieces), which will work great for most people here involved in knife- and sword-handle making.