For this old grumpy collector's money, the best eye candy at the Hickory airgun show, was this marvelous display of eight classic Walther target rifles, that Tom Strayhorn brought. I hope he won't mind my showing them off here:
The overall display:
Older guns on the left side--LG 51, 52, 53, and 55:
Newer ones to the right--another pair of 55's and two stunning LGV's. Check out the double-set triggers on the LGV Tyrolean...airguns just don't get any cooler than that, period:
NOTHING BUT GORGEOUS! Thanks Tom!
Seeing Tom's beautiful Walthers is a Christmas present in itself ! Just wanted to say hi to everyone but great to also see these guns.. If I had it to do all over again I would have collected nothing else, LG 51'a to LGVS's . Should have listened to Tom. Mike, thanks for posting them.
When I got out of the airgun business I kept one gun, an LGVS Jr. It is like they made it for me and it very newish except it needs a seal. Bought one but never gotten around to putting it in. Maybe a new years resolution (:
A few months after getting out I received two more Walthers from someone I dealt with in Germany. I had told him to be on the lookout and our relationship was so good he would buy and ship then email me a price. Always a joy. I got a really fine LG 52 DST, what a little beauty and a 53 DST, both rare as mike pointed out.. The 53 has great metal but some idiot sanded the finish down and oiled it. still a great shooter. I also discovered under the gable two dissembled LG 55's and a bunch of parts that I honestly forgot !@!!
Been busy designing houses, have two underway and another for next year plus now two chromium-cobalt knees, two cadaver inner corneas, and hearing aids !!!! I promised my wife I would retire, again, at 80 ! If I last that long ! LOL
Many good memories here, the best, but I am living proof you can quit! I also answered, literally, what is the one airgun you would keep. I need to put that seal in !
Warmly,
Gaines