[AGE]

Wes,

I have avoided these arguments in the past, but I'm going to risk an answer to you. Certainly, even shooters (me too) will admit that original fine condition guns (like Lugers) are more desirable than refurbished ones just like original antique cars, etc. in fine condition are more desirable than rebuilt or restored ones.

However, items that are used (like clothes, cars, and guns) do eventually show wear and after a time, lots of wear. I must admit that I like nice (finishes on cars and guns, clothes, etc.). Most of us eventually replace worn clothes and cars that are becoming shabby rather than restore, repair or rebuild old ones. We might not do this if we could refinish or rebuild them like we can old guns.

I have been shooting for 59 years. Shooting handguns for 47 years. It's great fun and a non firing gun in my opinion is worthless. An unused gun is a shame (to me, not to a historian--I admit there is a difference).

I admired Lugers as neeeat guns for 30 or 40 years before buying one (a refinished shooter) last spring. It isn't that I couldn't afford one before this, it's just that I chose to spend my hobby money shooting more modern guns (and Colt SAAs--talk about expensive) rather than buying Lugers. I am completely satisfied with my first purchase, but I became enamored with Thor's refinished guns recently and decided to blow some more $$ on one of these.

Again, I am a shooter not a collector or historian. I have no interest in German history or artifacts, but Lugers are neeeat. You couldn't give me a 98 Mauser or P-38 (they don't turn me on like a Luger does--sorry RK). Sorry if you can't see my point of view, but my gun from Thor satisfies my needs (desires) while saving me thousands of $$ for ammo to enjoy shooting my toys.

When I am through enjoying my hobby, my guns are unlikely to be mistaken for original unrefinished collector guns. Who knows, I might even have Hugh put S&W revolver sights and a long barrel on Thor's product if it suits me. (I won't tell him, he might cry.) Even Hitler didn't have one of these.

Anyway, if it won't shoot out it goes (no matter how pretty). I have no concern for the guy who buys my guns except that I hope he enjoys them. Also, I have no concern for whoever admires my guns--I bought them for me and as long as I admire them I will be happy.