That's just about the same story for my first Krag! The difference was that dad got an ugly duckling from the back of the locker and left it alone for 25 years or so until I came back from camp with my riflery stories. Beneath the chewed up stock and obliterated handguard (and much to our surprise) hid one of the most awesome bores! Dad has gone on to collect his rewards but the Krag awaits the eventual hand-off to my son. Only with much effort, luck and money have I ever found a couple bores any better. I suppose that the lack of asthetics kept it from being used and abused by years of blank firing? All fixed up now, I make sure to bring it to the range on or near every Father's Day!