I've read through this entire thread, but I never saw the correct answer to the question. Every day on this board, people want answers about the most efficient cartridge. The best barrel makers. The strongest action. The preferred cartridge for deer, antelope, or lions.
I want you to read this.
Art: the expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as painting or sculpture, producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power.
Some posters were so close to nailing it. The reason for owning a 300 H&H, a 45-70, a Rigby rifle, etc. is because of its beauty. I like the lines of certain cartridges and rifles. They appeal to my eye. The most velocity doesn't do it for me. Nor does the latest marketing release. It's got to appeal to my eye. I have to get a good feeling from it. That's why I prefer certain cartridges and rifles.
Art is a personal thing. What moves you may leave others cold. But it's still art. Something to be appreciated for its beauty or emotional power. Does it move you?
Without art, there's little purpose to life.
That's a fine post, Steve, and I utterly agree with your point. I remember being a child of 5 years old looking through my father's reloading manuals. Certain cartridges just seemed "cool". I couldn't say way then. I still can't describe the "cool" in exact terms.
I suppose it's like porn, in that it is difficult to define, but we know it when we see it.
