For me, by the time I get to the shop I already have narrowed down the choices. So when I ask, "How much will it cost?" I'm more seeing if I can afford it or maybe have to go a different direction. So the shop owner may hear that question first but that's not the first priority. For example, my 318 project could really use 0.030" shaved off the deck. But it costs $180 around here, and I don't know if it's worth that to me. Both places I checked were close to that number, and they both are good. So the deal isn't what's the least amount, but rather, if it costs that much to get a decent job, do I want to spend the money? Obviously, I'm operating on a shoestring.

R.