I did not really know where to post this as its something of a rambling thought. But having been here less than a year, this place has become an important part of my daily routine. From my first post about an old double, right on through sharing my excitement over my first buffalo/ele hunt, you guys have been nothing but supportive and helpful. I had a ton of questions about gear, guns, ammo etc. and all were thoughtfully and intelligently answered. I have also noticed that folks here are quick to loan, or give items that are needed by other members. Case in point is that Sam Rose (srose on AR) had made himself a prototype aperature sight for his rifle. He subsequently made some other styles till he came up with the one he liked. I have the same make of rifle and emailed him to see about buying one of his early models. Long story short, he wasn't interested in selling them, but he would send me one for free. I got the sight, and it is exactly what I needed to allow me to see and shoot with iron sights. This simple act of kindness literally added years to my ability to keep on using my double. In my humble effort to "pass it on" I recently sent a pair of gaters to a young man for his first safari. So for all of you guys that may occassionaly get a little cynical or tired of questions from newcomers, please remember that we came here to gain knowledge from those that have gone before us, so that someday we can be a resource to those that are yet to come. Thank you, JCS

Great post! There is a wealth of knowledge and tons of experience on this board... and some very gracious people as well.

you aren't the only one that feels that way either. I'm not into chat rooms or twitter, facebook and all that crap but this site is informative and fun.

We even check the Mud Pit (ARPF) regularly, just in case somebody ever says anything valuable there. Search function is awesome and the wealth available grows daily. Glad to be "let in" to play even if not one of the heavy hitters -- find that anywhere besides church these days...

This is a great site.

With a wealth of good people, with great expereince and information available you can find no where else.

.

We always hear about the bad crap. Good never sells. But there is a lot more of good. So pass it on.

Mike

Sam is a hell of a good guy. I got to meet him at Michael458's house (another really good guy!). Just recently I was looking for some old school solids and Sam had some and I got them in a few days. A true Southern Gentleman!

Well said,

Everyone is an individual and looks at things a little differently. I am constantly learning something all the time from this site and it people. Those who have been many times are wealth of info and advise. Those of us who have only been once even have something to offer occasionaly.

Very well said! I'm also new to this forum and I've asked a dumb question (or three...) but 98% of the responders are understanding & helpful. That hyper-critical 2%? I reckon they just have bowel issues...

+1

Sam is a real gentleman. Back in 2008 when I was new on hunting forums I mentioned my fascination for double rifles & that I was visiting the US for a few weeks. He invited me to visit and shoot / hunt with double rifles! I could not resist the offer and was treated to a wonderful experience of shooting about 7 or 8 differnt doubles belonging to Sam & Corbin (another fine southern gentleman) and hunting with a sweet Webley (London Sporting Park) 450/400. I will never forget the experience!

JCS, thanks for the post. My thoughts exactly. I have learned a lot from the posters here and generally appreciate their helpful attitude and fun responses.

Tom

There are no dumb questions when preparing for a safari. The only dumb thing would be not asking the question that you needed an answer to.

Mark