Phil tbh that is close to what I do myself but I have traded with fasteddies. No local bearing shop here but there is a national online wholeseller who are happy to send a few "samples packages" to hobbyists. The prices are low compared to specialized shops for industrial grade ceramic and even platinum bearings. That said, a word from this posts sponsor, Cpt. Obvious;
Speaciality RC shops is good for our hobby. Most people do not want the hassle of looking up the correct sizes (often more than one type in large trucks) and then go hunting after having spend time on figuring out what type is even right for them in the first place. They want a place that sells "bearings for mah truck". And god bless them for it. Personally I try to strike a balance between geeking out to save a few bucks and supporting the shops that make my hobby more appealing to those with a foot in the door. Money mostly wins because im a cheap cunt.