New member introductions thread ......

Hi everyone. I recently purchased a 1873 period Frog for my Trapdoor Bayonet. However, the leather has shrunk. What can I use to soften this antique leather so I can slide it on the sheath. Thanks.

Dubbin lavishly applied when the leather is hot after a sun tan? Let is soak in, try, repeat.

Thanks, I'll get some.

Gentlemen (and others),
New member, but not new to firearms. Like I assume with many of you, I've been involved with firearms for most of my life (currently 61). As to military firearms, I've got five of my late fathers. One is a 1911 in .45 ACP built using an early Colt frame, topped with a later Remington slide (w/adj rear sight). Next is a Type-99 Japanese Arisaka in 7.7mm, with folding mono-pod and winged ladder-style rear sight (with intact chrysanthemum). Next is an M-1 Carbine in .30 carbine. After that is a 1903-A3, that I've yet to shoot (which also includes the carbine, and the Type-99 Arisaka - which I've got no ammo for, yet). Last, but certainly not least, is what was my fathers pride and joy of his collection, a 1903 Sporter in .30-06.
As to my civilian firearms, I've too many to list, stored in two safes.
Researching (who made) the 1903 Sporter is what lead me here.

I'm new to this. How can I create a new post with pictures? I'm looking at buying a P-14 but is has something strange on it.

Hello Gents and Ladies,

While I am not new to collecting--I have been fascinated with military history and military collectibles since I was a kid--I am new to this community. I am a native of Pennsylvania but now reside in Georgia--the state, not the former Soviet republic. I got "serious" about collecting in 1979 and since then have collected just about everything related to the United States participation in WWII. My collection consists of guns, knives, cartridge boxes, uniforms, SSI, posters and other ephemera, especially home front items. But I haven't limited myself to U.S. military collectibles of that era. I have some items that go back as far as the War of 1812 and I have German and British pieces from conflicts prior to and up to WWII. I also collect antique fishing tackle and even old fireworks. Those hobbies drain money from military "stuff" and at times, I wonder why. Right now I am focused on SMLE rifles and, although my "collection" is pitifully small, I hope to expand it in the years to come. One thing that concerns me (and hopefully some of you will respond to this) is that I cringe whenever I see import stamps on firearms. In your opinion, is it better to stay away from guns with import stamps? (I only have one right now, but there are temptations everywhere.) Hope to get some response on this. Thanks so much. Gary/Aero626

Looking forward to learning some things and best reguards to all.

Been lurking here for a few years, and only just decided to post recently. This forum has been a terrific resource for browsing and learning silently, and I think I am at the point where I am ready to start asking questions.

A big thanks to all the contributors and the knowledge they share. Perhaps, in time, I will be able to return the favor.

Hi, I’ve been around this forum for a while and as yet had nothing to add to conversations. What I must say now is that this forum has been a real pleasure for me. I enjoy finding out about things from people with experience and I find that here.
As the old saying goes “ Learn from the mistakes of others as you will not live long enough to make all the mistakes yourself “
Thanks everyone
By the way my latest hunt is for a Ross 1910 model E commercial sporter in 303. Any body want to inform me ? Thanks

for promptly renewing my dormant account - happy to be back -