11Bravo, that 104 3 is the winning numbers to the lottery - you just don't know it yet!

As far as numbers, Charlie is just an "average" collector. I am still trying to play catch up (divorce is a killer on hobbies). There are some guys around this forum that have 20 or MORE carbines, but I won't rat them out - yet. Don't worry about numbers, just quality. Don't settle for the rebuilds and fakes, these guys here will help you find the really good ones which will grow in value over time. Your bank account will see it as an investment, but unfortunately, your wife will see it as an addiction. And those other firearms in the safe???? most will just be a fading memory pretty soon!

Oh, just to try yourself on luck of the drawn, you can always pop over to CMPicon and drop an order for a carbine straight from Govt release. Your military service more than qualifies you. They are not in the best of condition, but they are genuine, well priced and actually a very good way to learn about carbines. But you better hurry, they will be completely out within the next week to 10 days.

Ed