I posted on the Firearms Identification section, and my post sent me right back to here...
To all you "stitchcounters" - and I use that word in a most positive sense - all of you who do the research, who have (or develop) the skills to make/assemble your own firearms, horns, knives, clothing, everything involved in this pursuit, and come up with an article that is superior in quality and authenticity to what is available "factory made", you to whom the pride of your work and the pride of your worth are as one, who have an eye for the beauty and functionality of architecture, and a patience of mind to work quietly to achieve your aim...To You I say: "Thank You."
Without You, there would be no Traditional Muzzleloading Forum...there would be no Traditional muzzleloading as we know it today, on any meaningful scale. We who dabble - however deeply- in the pursuit, owe You a debt that we can never repay, for You keep the traditions alive, with as much authenticity as is achievable. There is workmanship seen on this Forum, that can hold its own with the original period items...trekkers who have recreated historic treks in all but the bloodshed...members who could sit down at a wilderness campfire and be welcomed among 18th Century French voyageurs or Colonial Rangers or Longhunters. If I met some of you in the woods, it would be a moment of enchantment...a fleeting glimpse of another time.
I am most proud to belong to this Forum, to be among so many of you who have led me along the path and gave me the benefit of your skill and experience. I try to be helpful to others here in return. Angry? I rarely even get annoyed here. New members, who seem a bit glib, or unaware of the Traditional nature of this Forum (but they did join!) I try to nudge them toward the more traditional ways. They learn.
No one on this Forum ever personally offended me ; if I have done so to another, I assure you it was without intent.
I am currently down with Shingles on my left face, and Thrush in my mouth. Not much pain, modern meds can be amazing (on anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal). Forty years ago, it was much worse. Yesterday I was able to spend much of it on The Forum...it was a most enjoyable day.
I have rambled on enough. Again, to All, "Thank You."
Richard/Grumpa