Lochem wrote:Uncle Ron, can you list a few of the shops where I'd get top gear but still for reasonable prices and feel comfortable with my purchase?
From what I've read thru the forum so far, I've collected a few spots on my map that I want to check out. They so far include :
Double Reggae
Rastababy
Grey Area
Speak Easy - i heard of good deals here
The Noon- same with this place
Bushdoctor- staying at the Nh Carlton which is right nearby
Basjoe
Double Reggae and Rastababy - never been inside, but from what I hear don't bother. Decide for yourself.
Grey Area - Very small shop; they offer quality gear but prices are nearing Barney's.

Speak Easy - never been inside; Decide for yourself.
The Noon - chill place, nice location away from the madness; good gear at reasonable prices.
Bushdoctor - convenient to have close by; ok weed and prices.
Basjoe - Always good gear at reasonable prices.
My 2 cents:
Dampkring (near the Flower Market) - Extensive menu; good gear that for the most part is reasonably priced; excellent Belgium hot chocolate.
Mellow Yellow - Standard menu; good gear; reasonable prices; does get busy (and loud); check out the upstairs.
Katsu - Out in the boondocks (De Pijp) past the Albert Cuypmarket; nice place to stop and have some quality smoke.
Homegrown Fantasy - try their version of Cheese.
Green Place (near the Nieuwmarkt) - extensive menu although can get pricey; excellent location to people watch.
Bagheera (next to Basjoe) - extensive menu with a decent selection in the 8-12e range, although they do carry boutique gear for 15e+, ala Barney's.
I could go on, but many will add their two cents worth as I have done. You decide for yourself which shop does it for you. Something you could do to pass on what you have experienced it to write a Travelogue and post it here in the forum.