Existentialistic question

[KuKulzA28]

Originally Posted by Spunjer

now, nothing beats with that actual sword on your hand. you can only read so much about it, but once you got it in person, it takes a whole new meaning.

Most definitely

Originally Posted by Spunjer

think of it like a library: you borrow a book, you read it, once you get done, you return it.

That's how I see it. Some like to amass libraries, others just borrow books... and I guess in a way, it's the same with weapon collecting

Originally Posted by Spunjer

of course there are what i call the Keepers, which, weird as it may sound, you can actually feel if certain pieces wants to stay with you.

Yea, it is kind of strange... sometimes there's something special about a certain piece, and it's hard to say why

[Rick]

I'm down to one or two a year .
Not much leaves my collection .

Then there's the rare bottom feeding score .
Mostly not from eBay .

[Neil]

Reading this thread I have laughed out loud more than once, thank you. We are a strange lot. I have asked my self many times why I collect the things I do. In the end its just who I am I think.

As far as limits go, I have a few guidelines. Predominantly I collect antique Chinese civilian arms. I have been a student of Chinese martial arts for a long time and have found working with these pieces lead me down such insightful paths of understanding, both in the history of my interest as well as my personal practice. That being said, the items I collect need to be complete and functional for solo kung fu practice routines, and or examples that offer a new opportunity to learn in a broader context. Few seem to be long term keepers. The chase is fun though.