Though many of us probably think of the No. 1 as "elegant", and as a potential "heirloom", that alone may not be enough to get it into the field with the next generation. Kids don't see things the same way we do. Most teenagers I know see single-shot anythings as a "handicap", as well as what Dad buys you when he didn't have enough money for the RemingChesterAvage.

Rather than buying something with the intent of it becoming an "heirloom", consider that what you already use has that category sewn up, whether it's beat up or not.

Much as I love my No. 1, I think the "heirloom" in my collection is probably the rifle I took my first deer with - a gently worn, well-maintained M600 Remington that still finds its way to the field. It has stories behind it - and that gives it character.