Smith, Lefever, Parker, Ithaca, Fox, etc. Find an example that is in good operating condition, a hundred or so years old and I'll guess that you will cease to exist before it does, making this whole which is best argument a moot point. At least, to me. I have two old Parkers, each over 100 years old. My prized bird guns but I know that they will outlive me as Dave's Elsies will outlive him so who cares about any of this? Your kids probably don't care about your old relics except for the money they may bring. Your guns don't have to be the best. Only good enough for the rest of your life. This argument will undoubtedly continue so I will end with this: Enjoy what you have for your own reasons. Let others do the same.