Hmmm.....
Wow - an old thread that I passed over... I can do this <img border="0" title="" alt="[Wink]" src="wink.gif" />
My past is like many of you. I was intrigued by Lugers in my pre-teen years, in the 60's.
When I became 18, I was able to purchase my first Luger. That one I gave to my Dad on a special occassion, just because he always wanted one. It's a G date - and today, it sits in my collection because my Dad is a bit old to take care of it any longer.
From there - I started collecting in the late 70s - and after purchasing my first Krieghoff - quickly discovered I was ripped off by a fake. So - I sold that as a "part's gun" at a loss, and figured if I was going to collect - I wanted to collect Kriegs and find what was "right" and "wrong" (plus, I couldn't afford to lose another $1000+), In short - I wanted to do it "right. So, I hung on to a few pieces ('06 AEs), and sold off the "shooters".
So then - I began to do "research" on Krieghoffs - and it's become a worldwide passion and quest.... About 20+ years later - I'm still researching, but have built up a small but humble collection. Somewhat narrow in focus - but I really enjoy it.... And yes, I have some interesting pieces for my efforts.
And yea - I do "dabble" in other variations besides Kriegs - but those are just for me, and what I enjoy to broaden my interests....
Great thread.....
John D.