John: I roger your sentiments on us older collectors. In fact I don't envy younger collectors such as yourself. Michael and I were just talking on the phone last month and recalling how we used to buy rifles for anywhere from $275 up, to the then outrageous price of $750 for rifles that we now routinely see priced at $4500-$6500. In fact I have bought rifles in the past, that the scopes on them could not be replaced in today's market, for what I paid for the whole rifle with scope originally. I guess that is why I made the point I did. The gentleman who does my bluing charged $35 a rifle for beautiful work when we started together 37 years ago, now that is what he charges me when I send a 1903 Springfield floorplate...not triggerguard, off an N.R.A. Sporter. I'm afraid the "Golden Age" of collecting these beautiful things has passed, but the great news is there are still plenty around and as the older collectors "Cross the Bar" many will reenter the market through estates,inheritances etc. albeit at much greater prices than we ol' timers paid in the 60's... 70's and 80's. Warmest Regards Jerry
