Not to be confused with the more famous Mike Bender, a guy named John Bender, in NJ, makes really nice cues. He studied under Richard Black.
How about Jeff Olney. There is a reason he has a 4 year waiting list. He is also one of the nicest guys as well.
North end or south end?
R
(north end)
I'll be watching out for Kent Davis of KD Cues. I understand he worked with Ariel Carmelli for a while.