Walnut and Steel

This is going to be an insight into my thoughts regarding a lifetime of my addiction to fine firearms. During my 55 years of shooting, I have become enamored by the fine craftsmanship when blued steel and exquisite lumber are configured to produce a masterpiece as splendid as a DaVinci. Does it make me shoot better? No. Do I baby it out in the field? Yes, but only until that first scratch shows up, then I relinquish. Also, as the bluing begins to fade, I take pleasure in seeing a work of art that ages like fine wine.

Some people are captivated by a fine car like a Lamborghini Centenario Roadster while I drool when I see a Ceasar Guerini Invictus VII Sporting shotgun. The Turkish Circassian Walnut is breathtaking; the hand engraved receiver and leather covered recoil pad make me blush. If I was to select a rifle, I marvel at the sight of a Blaser R8 that gives you an option of 11 grades of Noble Root wood that takes my breath away.

Call me old fashioned or a traditionalist. It doesn't matter to me that the newer generation of firearms are made of plastic and steel and are just as enticing to a lot "gun nuts" as my choices. I have a tremendous amount of respect for the newest technologies and innovations and have owned quite a few myself, but give this old boy my "walnut and steel".