Thought I would be close to last to respond because my other
hobbies are kind of obscure.
1. Astrophotography; absolute patience to get good pictures;
need to know everything about astronomy AND photography to get great pictures. Need very specialized equipment; an excellent rig will cost not less than $10K but typically
$20K-$50K upwards to $200K is not uncommon, upwards to$1
million been known. Unfortunately only other amateur astronomers appreciate the pictures you take unless its from Hubble Telescope, though we are getting closer. On a scale of 0-100, I am about a 25; there are some absolutely,
truly gifted astrophotographers.
2. WW II living history, sort of like the civil war reenactors but more fun. Where else do you get to ride around in tanks, armored cars (8 wheelers with all wheel,
all steer, all drive, 6 speeds forward, 6 speeds reverse,
2 drivers). Get to fire 75mm howitzers, 81mm mortars,
machine guns, machine pistols. Drive WW2 motorcycles, like BMW, Harley Davidson,and Indians. Hang a round with a bunch
of wackos who love WW2 history and love to own a machine gun. (it is legal to own a machine gun in Maryland, you have
to give up your right to search warrants, the ATF insists.)
No, I do not own one, not because I don't want one but because of cost, a very good WW2 one costs ca $20k and upwards, forget about a tank, a German Panther (if one were ever for sale) would cost over $10 million++++++. Armored
cars with a machine gun in good condition about $150K. People do own and USE them. And WW2 airplanes, a P51, about
$2 million, A B-17, maybe $5 million. Guess what people
own them!!!! What is great is a grunt can get away with less than $500 and enjoy the hobby immensely!!!! And imparting to others the deeds and ordeals our ancestors
endured. A very satisfying hobby.
