Holding a deadly weapon focuses the mind wonderfully. Assuming you’re not a TTAG writer slinging lead next to Jessie Duff eating a hot dog, shooting pushes all thoughts of food, work and sex to one side. I’ve found that people who love guns and shooting tend to have other “hobbies”; activities where they can experience some much-needed mental diversion. For me, it used to be cars. Two divorces later and I’ve downsized my daily distraction to . . .
Pinball!
I’m fortunate enough to own Tales of the Arabian Nights and Theater of Magic — games by legendary designer John Popadiuk. Pins whose challenges never fail to engross me. Like keeping it working. Researching games online, competing in tournaments, playing new-to-me machines — it’s a hobby that keeps on giving. Outside of firearms, what absorbs your quarters attention?