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Wednesday, November 11th, 2026

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These old guns bring back memories

A Winchester Model 61 .22 bought in high school became the author's go-to squirrel rifle. (Photos by Gene Kroupa)

Growing up outside of Belleville, Ill., on the bluffs overlooking St. Louis, I was blessed with lots of ground to hunt. And, like many youngsters, I made do with hand-me-down guns that were old but still worked.
The bluing had long ago disappeared from the barrels. Stocks were scarred; some cracked, and all devoid of finish.

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