[Adam Helmer]

Yes, acquiring fine vintage military arms is fun and I had a "good run" that began in the late 1950s. My collection has many duplicates of two or three or five of the same arms, with "correct" accoutrements. Last Saturday I had a family reunion here at the farm and shot many arms with my sons-in-law, grandsons and other good folks who never shot a military rifle before. Two 14 year old lads, and their dads, used charger clips for the first time in a 98k Mauser and a MkIII Enfield. I realized these hunting buddies missed a lot that many of us take for granted when it comes to surplus arms.

This Christmas some fine vintage arms, not now available in the mint condition I got them, will go to good homes. I look forward to seeing my fine arms in new hands in this year's deer stands. If you go to a few estate sales of good guns, you may make your own advanced preparations as I shall do.

I intend to live another 20 years, or so, and that will be enough time to ensure the new owners take proper care of fine military surplus arms.

Adam