My Esteemed Colleague,
Money being a finite commodity, I can either buy Navy Lugers or digital cameras. I am *certain* you know the default answer on that one!
As fas as smell goes, it is a vitally important part of my examination approach. And with holsters, it is absolutely essential. I even give them a nibble in an unobtrusive location if it is a big dollar acquisition.
I always give any unit markings a sniff as well as the reverse side of the side plate and under the grips....these areas should have a distinct smell and should not smell ANYTHING like cold blue.
With holsters, W.W.I. era should smell very much like the inside of your grandma's purse with a heavy scent of tobacco smoke. W.W.II era should smell somewhat similarly but not nearly as intense...
Tom <img src="graemlins/beerchug.gif" border="0" alt="[cheers]" />