[ahfoxman]

Good Morning Mr. Skeuse, I wonder if this smokepole's lumber made the #5 rating? The other side is just as nice, but really lousy in the head area. It is serial: 28-01787 and I am under the understanding that it was owned by an outdoor writer? I have hunted it hard the last two years here in Pa. and up in NY, and did manage to fall with it more than a few times. So far, no damage, the Grouse Gods must be smiling on me, or taking pity on an old bone head who is still 'Pat' hunting after back surgery and with an articulated knee brace/contraption. My wife isn't a happy camper as I hunt mostly alone (except for my best buddy, Get'r Done 'Ice', who is getting to be a pretty damn smart pointing grouse dog), because I go slow and run out of gas after only a few hours out and about in the covers. Some friends still take me out, but I feel quilty for slowing down their day. I have missed more birds in the last two years than in the previous 10. This Getting Old Business isn't for Sissies. I think Will Rogers said that, if not he should have. Enough BS for now, sorry if I have hi-jacked this thread, but I am really bummed out and felt like talking, as I recently lost one of my grouse hunting and gun show buddies, who helped me scour The Ohio Gun Collectors shows for treasures for some 15 plus years back in the 80's and 90's. His name was Russel Bickel and he was an outstanding friend, a dedicated hunter, an outstanding sportsman, a true gentleman, and was one of the very best metalsmiths and a fine doublegun restorer. He will be missed by many. I have been very privileged to have had you as my friend and you will be always be in my thoughts. Rest in Peace, Russ.