It would not surprise me if some people are turned off to guns, just by how ugly some newer guns are.

Very true, Mills. Particularly some of the new Brownings and Berettas.

I certainly don't disagree that some of the newer gun designs are unappealing. I like the classic designs, but that's why we're members.

I have a young hunting friend who I started duck hunting. He and his new duck hunting (younger) friends like the new designs, but when he goes quail hunting with me he uses one of my doubles. I think he is beginning to see the appeal, but it might take a while for him to come completely around.

I'm hopeful that we can cultivate another generation of hunter/shooter/collectors, but it will take work on our part...and maybe a little understanding.

Not many, I'm afraid. And only those who remain with a relative sense of the aesthetic.

Sadly, today's American society is rife with appalling taste and boorishness. Accordingly, the "guns" on offer reflect that classless vapidity.

Proof? Just page through any recent issue of American Rifleman...

There. Time for my mimosa...

Don't be surprised when someday you receive an invitation to join the new BGCA "black gun collectors association". :rotf:

Bill

The older Ar's are C&R eligible now. Time does seem to be flying by.

Jack Kuzepski

The Double Gun Journal is a great read with fantastic guns, There will always be Black guns for sale somewhere, for me I will take the double, whether it be rifle or shotgun! Gary

I find that people who don't own guns and hate AR 15's and "full semi automatic military style assault rifles" are fascinated by my Parkers. Count me on the optimistic side.

My dad, who was born in 1917, couldn't wait to trade in his 20 ga. Fox Sterlingworth for a used automatic shotgun with a cracked stock. He hated being limited to two shots. Thought five was better. I grew up shooting auto's and never owned a side by side until I was in my thirties. Now I've got more double barrels than I know what to do with and wouldn't allow an automatic in the house. Wish I had that old Fox. Not sure anything ever really changes. The older generation has always thought there was no hope for the younger.

"The children now love luxury; they have bad manners, contempt for authority; they show disrespect for elders and love chatter in place of exercise. Children are now tyrants, not the servants of their households. They no longer rise when elders enter the room. They contradict their parents, chatter before company, gobble up dainties at the table, cross their legs, and tyrannize their teachers."

Socrates

I have sold a bunch of lower grade American doubles this year and more than a couple have been to 40 something guys locally. Anyhow t hey are knowledgeable buyers looking for original condition. They know the value of what they are buying thanks to the internet and auction marketplace.