I got my Ruger Old Army today, polished stainless with fixed sights.  This 
was my first experience with a cap-and-ball revolver, and very nearly my 
first experience with black powder.  I only tried it out briefly, shot up a 
soda can and put a few rounds on paper, then cleaned it up carefully.  I just 
got my feet wet a bit, but what can I say?  It was FUN!  I enjoy simply 
handling this gun, and shooting is even better.
I've never been much of a pistol shooter, and even less a revolver shooter.  
There could hardly be more contrast between this gun and the last pistol I 
bought, which was a used Glock 17.  I think the main reason why I enjoy the 
Old Army must be because it's a learning experience.  I've fooled with modern 
guns enough that they don't have many surprises for me.  Now I get to do 
something I haven't done before.
At the gun shop this morning, the owner proudly showed me his new Taurus .454 
Casull revolver.  I made polite noises, but I imagined shelling out big money 
for one of those, then shelling out more for the exotic ammo, and then the 
joys of cracking my wrist and blowing out my eardrums.  No thanks!  On the 
other hand, I suppose some folks would think scrubbing black powder residue 
is not the most rational hobby at the end of the 20th century.  I figure he's 
just doing what I'm doing: exploring new territory, trying something he 
hasn't done before.
 Tony Belding 
 http://hamilton.htcomp.net/tbelding/
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