Mechanicsburg, Pa. - Holiday shoppers were out in full force on Friday. Just how much they're willing to spend could indicate whether the economy is showing more signs of life. Retailers know it, and that's why some people say they're finding better deals this year.

The Best Buy store in Mechanicsburg opened at 5:00 a.m. and we saw a steady stream of customers well into the evening. Some said the economy has changed the way they shop and this Black Friday was more about necessity than festivity.

Sales brought in people who usually stay away.

"No, we normally don't go out on Black Friday," said Bill Butdorf, of Michigan.

This year is different for Bill and his wife Irene. The retired couple is counting on deep discounts because their 401K took a hit.

"We told everyone there will be a little less for Christmas and we expect the same," said Butdorf.

Other shoppers told us their holiday spending habits have also changed.

"I kind of watch for what's on sale now instead of buying on the spur of the moment," said Vickie Wilson, of Carlisle. "I wait to see what's on sale and check different places. Which has the best prices?"

Best Buy managers are convinced they do.

"Some of the TV deals have been enormous for customers, almost up to 40-50 percent off of those," said general manager Troy Combs.

"I wanted a wireless to wireless router and they had one for 60 bucks instead of 120 so that's 50 percent," said Linda Fake, of Florida. "I'm willing to come out for 50 percent."

How are the deals compared to 2008?

"I think they are better," said Eileen Kline, of Spring Township, Perry County.

So much so, it seems the early birds left little behind for the night owls.

"The good deals were in the morning so I was a bit late," said Gloria Chiwaka, of Mechanicsburg.

While some left the store empty handed, Butdorf bought a lap top for his wife. He spent a little more than he'd like, so the computer is more than just a Christmas present. It's the gift that keeps on giving.

"Christmas, anniversary, birthday, Hanukah, kwanza, and bah mitzvah," Butdorf said.

Across the nation, retailers are reporting larger crowds than last Black Friday. They said more people are paying with cash or debit cards instead of credit cards.

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