GoodNESS, I thought I was going to be the odd duckling out to tell you to tell the detractors to buzz off…. Looks like that is the consensus around here, and a good one at that.
I highly agree with the resale market is determined by what the buyer will bear. And if you are going to sell it. There will ALWAYS be tough guy arm chair warriors that sit behind a computer screen and preach the gospel of the ivory tower. Words, man. Words.
Mehavey said it perfectly, guns are tools. They were designed as such. While I do feel that some are just gorgeous relics that shouldn’t be diddled with, a hunting rifle is just that, for trudging through the woods, getting a little scratched and dinged up on the stock. Taking an animal for dinner. Or sport, if you are a donor.
I had originally looked at a pre-64 Winchester as the base of my current build. Just trying to find stocks and the like for them was a bit of trouble. For me, at least.
Very nice rifle. I hope it serves you well for years and years to come, and then you can pass it on. Action, if well maintained, should outlast even your grandkids. Barrels can (and will need to) be replaced from time to time, but it should serve you well. Don’t let the sphincters get under your skin.