I have only few friends who do deal with bitcoin and other payment processor. Regarding bitcoin i am the only one who is constantly selling it to my friend circle but in relatively small scale. Face to face is quite easy and most secure way to deal.
I agree that F-2-F deals are very secure compared to online trades and it's good to only deal with known friends. I was initially afraid of dealing personally with a person as these deals are usually over 2-3 BTC and plus I don't know the person who I will be trading with.
It went well the first time but the person was making excuses while giving me cash. However, it went fine then but I don't prefer dealing this way as with regards to money, known people also try to dodge.