Ya know we honor and respect the craftsmanship of guns that stand the test of time but alas they are just material objects, that will probably outlast all of us. Most of the guns we talk about have been owned by people that have already passed. Its the people and the relationships we form around a common interest of hunting, shooting, collecting and the bonds that we make to connect us that make a difference. I never knew or met him but sounded like he was like many quality people that you wish you got the chance to meet but paths do not cross. Your proud and honored to spend time with them which is our most precious item. For those that knew him, I'm certain he won't be forgotten.
For me I appreciate the worn and well used guns that have been taken care of but show their age and character, it is what I enjoy the most with regard to the old SXS. The ones I have could be spruced up some, maybe checkering cleaned up, that old gun patina cleaned up, but I don't have the heart for it. I feel it would desecrate memories and it just doesn't feel right, but that is just me.
Common saying is if these walls cold talk or if that gun could talk what kind of neat story would it have. Every time I shoot an old gun and hear its report it is talking to me the same way it talked to guy that owned and shot it before me. As a matter of fact every time I pull the trigger on an old gun makes me feel connected to something bigger than the moment.
My condolences to those that knew him and were impacted by him.
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