why you should have an old shotgun

Theres something about walking around the woods with a dirty old scatter gun that just feels nostalgic. I myself have a subliminal desire to head straight to the used rack any time im at a gun shop or sporting goods store. Ive always favored glossy waulnut stocks over the modern materials. The craftsmanship that went into these guns can be marvelous, however most were plain jane models with no frills, often sold out of a sears cataluge. They were utilitarian in nature. Now when found, Many show worn blueing where it was held on many upland hunts. The stocks are scratched from holding a briar patch at bay. Maybe a few chips in the furniture. These firearms were once relied upon to put food on the table, they were an invaluable tool. I think the damage is what i love most about them. They usually have more stories behind them than scars. I cant help but think sometimes about what it would of been like to shoulder seven pounds of wood and steel over a good pointer back in the 80's when pheasants were almost as common as the geese are now here in northern Illinois.