This.
I have some that are simply tools, some that have sentimental value, some made by true craftsman, some made with practices long-abandoned (viewed in today's world as too costly), and some that are collector grade. Only the last group doesn't get "shot", for what I hope are obvious reasons.
For just plain well made fireams, pre WWI is where it's at. Hand fitted, hand polished, hand checkered, hand engraved - they are marvels. Unhappily, metallurgy, and components -- powders, primers, and bullets -- of the day, leave these firearms lacking, when compared to the ballistic capabilities of their contemporary counterparts.
Can't imagine never enjoying the use of a firearm that was actually crafted. (there are a few modern exceptions - but normally, they are a custom firearm).
Can't imagine never enjoying the use of a firearm that's utilitaian in design, but posesses marvelous capabilities.
