Getting A Jump Start On Black Friday

It's not hard to see the sights of holidays at Hamilton Place Mall.  But for some, their eyes are set on Black Friday deals.

"Toys, any toy specials that they've asked for, PSPs, DS, normal video games," says Shannon Pruett.  "And clothing, we got one that's interested in the clothing sales, and shoe sales."

Pruett made her way to the mall --with her three kids -- from Flat Rock, Alabama. She says, so far,  she's seeing some good deals.

"I found some good deals at belk with the percentages off, but i haven't found any on the toys yet, so we're still looking,she says.

And those deals are what people are looking for.  In fact, some sales papers are already out touting the hours and the savings. And online, doorbuster deals can be found right on the front page.

But those deals do come with fine print.  Sears fine print says it won't match prices that are limited in quantity at other stores, and doorbuster deals less than 6 hours at other stores won't be matched either.

Online, at Best Buy, you'll see a *minimums* on quantity, and how much you can get per customer.

There are others holding off their shopping.  Glen Carter says his shopping won't come until right before Christmas.

We asked Glen Carter if he think he'd be able to get a good deal.  He says, "I hope so. I think some managers realize that the closer it gets, the more deals they put out, the more they're going to get off the shelf, so i hope to find something within five days of Christmas."

But Pruett says she'll be ready early Friday, saying, "I think it'll be pretty bad, I don't think the economy is going to affect (the crowds) any...I think it's going to be pretty crowded.  It's crazy but it's fun.

Bottom line?  One retailer we talked with off-camera said if you want the 'big items' like the $200 dollar laptop, the cheap flat-screen TV, or the highly sought Zuzu Pets--get ready for Black Friday shopping.

Otherwise, if you're willing to sacrifice some savings, you'll still be able to get a good deal throughout the holiday season.