I think it is when, not if. Lots of good statements in this thread that I totally agree with.
I also think that when it does happen, the majority of people will gladly give up more freedoms, than stand their ground and demand something be done.
+1 on touch up with the Birchwood Casey's, if you use your guns, they will not stay pristine. I really like mine to look nice, but some things just happen. Unless it is a really big ugly looking scratch, {like falling off the car roof while driving ugly} I would just do the touch up thing.
Sad, just sad. The world is snowballing downhill at a very high rate of speed. I know it is pointless in the long run, but I pray some of our youngsters are being taught better than the majority seems to be. I am afraid in the long run we will be overwhelmed with chronic stupid.
Good on you. I will never forget my father giving me my first gun, also a .410 and taking me on my first hunt.
I also will never forget doing the same for my son. Now my granddaughter has also passed this great point in life.