Are opinion changing on restoring a shotgun?

[Bruce P.]

Originally Posted by Dennis V. Nix

... He should be shot and then shot again.

Dennis

And his horse too!

Bruce

[C.O.B.]

Some people just don't know their limitations.

Den you could add this and have a pair of 10's....think driven clays

[Marc Retallack]

C.O.B., Mr. Reed and Mr. Spencer,

What age group do you consider the current generation of shooters? If you mean teens and 20's, then yes, most are enamored with synthetics and semis. That, to me, is just the generation responding to fads and marketing. The pumpgun and the semi-auto contributed to the downfall of the American doublegun industry when former generations flocked to those actions for increased firepower and lower cost.

Tastes mature. I'm 40 now. I was almost 30 when an interest in classic doubles was sparked for me. Fortunately, the desire started around the time when I started to have the income to afford nicer firearms. I think for many of my generation, with all the demands of young families and kids in college, the disposable income isn't available to buy higher end guns. Given time, that will change.

There are a few of the younger generation who appreciate these guns. Danny Suponski comes to mind. From what I've learned through reading these threads, a lot of that is thanks to his father but also the community here. Take someone younger in to the fields and coverts this autumn. Let him or her use one of your doubles. Maybe you'll light a fire...

Cheers,
Marcus

[Harry Reed]

Wouldn't you like to see the factory letter on that Parker and compare it with what it is now???

[Harry Reed]

You are correct Marcus. If they ever shoot a light, balanced double the love will begin. There is nothing better then the feeling of cradling those double barrels in your hand on a rising target. I do not mean any disrespect to younger generations regarding my comments. They see beauty in a diffent form than I do. FYI, my generation is in their 60's. I had a love for old lever guns when I was a teenager. First one I ever shot was a Marlin 1892 in .22. Couldn't miss!!! Then, when I handled my first double I became even more addicted. Sorry, how did I digress down memory lane?

[Paul Stafford III]

Originally Posted by Rich Anderson

The younger generation wants black guns and synthetic stocks. These guns weather Parker, Winchester, LC Smith, rifle or shotgun are a finite resource BUT as people who appreciate these fine old guns we are a finite resource as well. this comes into my mind set of thinning down the numbers while I'm able and there are still enthusiasts to enjoy them.

As I am the younger generation, I can appreciate the skill and craftsmanship of a fine Parker. I wish I could have seen all the beautiful racks of Damascus guns in a sporting goods store in the early 1900's. What a sight it must have been...

[Autumn Daze]

Marc,Thank You for the kind word's. Danny loves these old guns and he has an appreciation for the workmanship that went into them. I cannot take all the credit though as alot of his interest came from the great people he has met and befriended in the PGCA. I still can't believe how much he loves grouse hunting! Lately though he seems to be up to his ears in another kind of fine American craftsmanship.....the two legged female kind...

[charlie cleveland]

dont worry the grouse hunting willcome back around... charlie

[Eldon Goddard]

Originally Posted by Marc Retallack

What age group do you consider the current generation of shooters? If you mean teens and 20's, then yes, most are enamored with synthetics and semis. That, to me, is just the generation responding to fads and marketing. The pumpgun and the semi-auto contributed to the downfall of the American doublegun industry when former generations flocked to those actions for increased firepower and lower cost.

I got my dad into these old guns. Only problem is he likes the Winchester Model 21. I try to get all my friends converted. One now is into over and unders and another liked my side by sides and went out and bought a stoeger.

[edgarspencer]

One step at a time, Eldon. Once he finds out how much more enjoyable SxS guns are, you then need to educate him on quality and balance. He sounds ripe for becoming a convert.