Time does fly Frank. I think its been about 12 years since I discovered 88's. Have the sporter, 3 military rifles, a Kar 88 and a cut down rifle. Really like the 88, Only wish I'd discovered it sooner and accumulated more examples before the dramatic increases in value. None of my guns are huge stand outs for condition, but are ok. 4 are shooting. 2 are not, Have a 1889 Erfurt with a nice stock that's broken at the wrist but repairable and a 1889 Spandau war bond gun that's less a bolt head and pretty much the worst for wear. But the cool thing about it is that I believe it is very close to being the earliest surviving Gew 88. Not worth much. but an interesting and fun novelty. Jay