Metal Sources

I buy from a freight salvage store near me. A couple weeks ago I found 200+ pounds of aluminum in 6061, 7075 and 7050. That will last me a while. Friday they had 45% off their regular per pound price. Picked up some stainless round and blocks of 1018. Most of the time there is still markings identifying the metals.
Dave

Ok, I'm jealous of you fellas that have found machinist's "Manna from Heaven" nearby.

Yeah, now I'm in Sacramento, other local hobby guys have turned me on to some local steel and metal suppliers. They have huge inventories, but even better, lots of scrap and leftovers. Some will cut, for a fee. But still cheaper than online.

When I lived in the sticks, I would often search at the local machine shops and fabricators. They all have boneyards and scrap piles. Some will let you pick thru, others even have stuff sorted by type of material. Pricing often depends on mood of the seller.

Online is now my last option, due to S&H, as others have noted.

I've used Online Metals, but as mentioned above their shipping is often as much or more than the actual material cost. McMaster can be a good source for small pieces, I get lots of stuff from them and for online ordering their website is second to none, and fast service... I've placed an online order in the morning and had it that afternoon without asking for fast shipping. Aircraft Spruce & Specialty is another good source, prices often better than OM or McM, though they mostly sell lighter/thinner stuff you'd expect to see on a small airplane.