Hello

[mrgrzeskowiak]

I like this site, but the only complaint I have is, I feel almost "scared" to ask questions and post... I am eager to learn more about authentic reenacting, but dont want to be scolded for asking..

Mike **********************
9th NYVC

[huntdaw]

Be afraid.... Be very afraid!

Seriously,

If you been visiting this site for a while you've probably noticed that the ones that get in the most hot water are the folks who post without doing any previous groundwork.

Nobody wants to mess with the 'who makes the best cartridge box' question. Now, something like 'I was looking at Brand X cartdridge box and noticed the stitching looked like such and such and I'm not sure that's correct. Does anyone know how authentic these boxes are?' will probably get you some help without scolding.

Or, 'I want to know about the X Montana regiment. Can anyone tell me about them?' Will get you hammered. But, 'I was looking through the roster and regimental history about the X Montana regiment and noticed this or that. Can anyone shed some light on this or give me an idea of where to get further information?' will have people doing their best to help you any way they can.

In short, this is not a forum for the beginner to post just to be posting and want everything spoon fed to them. Do your homework, have your information together and your opinions or thoughts organized and post them here.

It's really not a scary place. When I first stated on this forum, I never had any problems with anyone and to say I have learned a lot from here would be a gross understatement.

It's always good to do some research, then come here to discuss your findings and get some more info.

[paulcalloway]

I personally try to be as patient as possible with new users - and their new questions.

I understand that it gets frustrating to see the same questions asked over and over but for me, its easier just to do the search myself and post a link to discussion threads that answer the question.

Don't be a afraid to ask - but do use the search feature here whenever possible.

[Curt-Heinrich Schmidt]

Hallo!

Hall0 Herr Mike! Welcome!

But yes, amid the anti AC Forum feelings and negative commetns you received on the "Other Board," there is some decent advice on what this Forum is for and how it works.
Like mining for gold or diamonds, there is a way "it works." Some lads hate it, some come away with a gold mine...
It is not for everyone, but can be...

Others' mileage will vary...

Curt
Eight Year Forum Veteran and Survivior Mess
Pocket full of Gold Nuggets Found Here Rifles

[tomp40]

Welcome Mike, there are many, many threads here.. And these guys really know their stuff, so take advantage of it all and do a lot of reading.. and enjoy. Paul runs a great forum here!

Tom Ragno

[Charles Heath]

Mike, spark that desire to learn by seeking out and attending some of the better events, and then you'll sharpen the focus for your reading and research. The search engine on this forum is pretty darn good compared to a lot of them, so take your time to enjoy it.

The next time you see Terry of Sharps & Hankins "80 round magazine" fame, give him a swift (but very light) kick in the butt for me.

[Hank Trent]

Every forum or real-life group, it seems, will deal with those who don't fit their vision for the way the group ought to be. Sometimes the rules are stated up front, sometimes they're hidden behind a veneer of welcoming everyone, until you cross the unwritten line and get blindsided. I've learned to be "scared" of every group, until I can guess what the rules are. Some times that's easier than others.

One good thing about the AC forum is there's an attempt to state the vision clearly, with things like, it's not a place to ask beginner questions, "no farbism," etc. It may make the forum seem more intimidating beforehand, but it helps people know what they're getting into.

Hank Trent
hanktrent@voyager.net

[redleggeddevil]

As a comparative new-comer here, I can say that I have only been party to one exchange that I considered uncivil. A poster asked a question concerning peoples' philosophical opinions on a particular trend in reenacting.

I stated my opinion on the matter, only to have one poster tell me "No, you are wrong."

I was tempted to ask the fellow who posted that if he knew what an opinion was.

That being said, the particular blow-hard who questioned my right to an opinion doesn't post here much anymore.

Of course, I try whenever possible not to say anything particularly stupid. That goes a long way.

[Old Reb]

I am scared every time I post.:)

[GA_Tarheel]

Mike, welcome aboard. The folks here at AC are quick to answer intelligent questions. There is a great wealth of knowledge on this site. Speaking for myself, I have learned a great deal just by reading what other members have contributed to the forums in the past so I don't feel the need to post that often. :D

[Curt-Heinrich Schmidt]

Hallo!

The fear of death, is worse than death itself.

But the burns from the candle under the bushel are said to be far worse. ;) :)

Curt
Burning the candle from both ends and the middle Mess

[CC sewing]

I am scared every time I post.:)

Me too! :tounge_sm

[Frenchie]

Sometimes the newbie's problem is easy to identify: http://redwing.hutman.net/~mreed/warriorshtm/xenophobe.htm or http://redwing.hutman.net/~mreed/warriorshtm/howlers.htm

[mrgrzeskowiak]

Um...ok Frenchie.. now im really scared!

[MuddyWaterMess]

OK OK Just let me say the first few times i posted i was scared to death and i learned that if i used the search function about a billion times and still did not find what i was looking for then i didnt mind asking. just know that this site is killer and not real positive who started it but i would love to buy that guy a drink ENJOY

BEN

[Curt-Heinrich Schmidt]

Hallo!

His name is...
Mr. Big Bug.

Curt