I think the NE forums have many good knowledgable persons. Mark (400NE) is a very valued member for his knowledge and I am always amazed at the extent of it. Actually I think I invited him here years ago and I'm glad he took up the invitation and has continued to enjoy it here. Thank you to Mark (400NE) for his contributions.

I've been thinking I have never had a good look at the proofs and other markings and origins of my own DR and 400NE's and other members great knowledge might prove useful yet again. From what I've seen in the past, often even down to the date ranges of various serial numbers. Thanks in advance.

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We also have many other very good and knowledgable members and I won't name them all, as there are too many to name. I always say the membership of the forums makes the forums. It is good to have a VARIED membership from many different parts of the world, from different backgrounds and interests, sharing some common interests which is why they join in here. Variety makes for good discussions and hopefully most of the time the discussions stay polite and constructive.

When they don't, well it usually doesn't take long and the storm blows over, and getting the blood up occasionally is probably good for the heart.

I for one enjoy talking about vintage and newer English rifles, and also Continental makers, vintage as well as the brand new ones many of us buy these days for our hunting. I am a big fan of Mannlicher and Mauser bolt actions and good shotguns. More of a "user", I like hunting with them, than a collector and definitely not an expert in any form. So it is great to hear the discussions from our members whom have great depth of knowledge on many varied and sometimes broad areas as well.

NE members, I hope you all continue to enjoy the NE forums and website, JOINING IN is the best way to get the most out of them, hopefully we all learn something from time to time, but enjoy the experiences and make new friends around the world. I know I have. I've enjoyed seeing members dogs, photos of their families in the snow, hunting sheep in North America, or buffalo or springbok in Africa. Even hares and rabbits in Australia, Finland or Canada. I love seeing their prized double rifles and other firearms. Well oiled gun metal and warm walnut. Sorry to the stainless steel, plastic fantastic people - hey I'm guilty of posting photos of stainless steel DRs and plastic stocks for them as well.

Merry Christmas to everyone again. Its not far off now and it is actually raining today, the first for months. Hope you all enjoy a break if you have one and good times with family.