Adriene, I am responding to your posting regarding the dilema of firing the gun by the still-living donor from the Pan America Games. Many firearms of this vintage (ie., 20th century) are considered "living firearms" and are kept and maintained in constant use by owners & collectors. If the gun is in excellent condition then firing it once should do no harm as long as it is thoroughly cleaned afterwards. There is an underlying principle here, however, as to whether you feel that this might set a precedent in which any firearm in the collection might be liable to be placed into use in this manner. There is also the matter of public perception which such events and their publicity engender. If this gentleman (donor) is very excited about firing his old gun then you might consider indulging his wishes - it is really a judgement call when one is dealing with living people and recent artifacts. Dave David Harvey Conservator of Metals & Arms Colonial Williamsburg Foundation P.O. Box 1776 Williamsburg, VA 23187-1776 USA voice: 804-220-7039 e-mail: [log in to unmask]