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gruntothesmitey t1_jdnnbs1 wrote

I own a cast iron pan that was made before the U.S. Civil War. Gets used regularly.

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Geo_btw t1_jdnm3di wrote

taking the low hanging fruit here, but I use my cast iron pans just about everyday. They will last forever with care.

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SamuelsSteel OP t1_jdnolfj wrote

Same.

I love my cast iron but am considering an All Clad pan

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Geo_btw t1_jdnr9oe wrote

why not both? all clad is a great BIFL option!

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SamuelsSteel OP t1_jdnrinb wrote

Oh I by no means is the cast iron getting mothballed. It’ll still be used daily

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AdZealousideal5983 t1_jdnmiyb wrote

Same. Mine was passed down from my grandfather, who got it as a wedding present. It’s the oldest thing I own and use it most mornings to cook eggs.

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SamuelsSteel OP t1_jdo1u0q wrote

I’ve got like a half sized Lodge skillets. That’s the go to for eggs. Perfect size.

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Ackchyually_Man t1_jdrxzkn wrote

They are great as long as you aren't cooking something acidic. I cook with vinegar all the time, so I don't bring out the iron unless I have a steak or something.

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reppers t1_jdnjsjl wrote

Barbour Jacket. 12 years. 12 winters. Been back to be repaired once and stitched a few times.

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Onah_VayKay t1_jdnnjzr wrote

Swiss army knife I've had since I was a kid

Second place is probably my DeWalt cordless drill I've had for over 20 years (got new batteries later)

Third place is my car, 18 years, and no major problems yet (thank the gods)

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TextComprehensive261 t1_jdnuurz wrote

Curious—what kind of car?

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Onah_VayKay t1_jdo7tjy wrote

It's a 2005 Chevy Cobalt. It was the one that had a recall on the ignition switch ( which caused a couple deaths) and I did have a very scary moment once lol, where the car turned off while I was merging onto the highway. But, it had a dozen recalls since I've owned it, replacing several parts for free at dealers. Overall I've been very happy with it, it's traveled with me on many life adventures.

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Drake1126 t1_jdoyj8v wrote

I have an 06 cobalt ive taken on many adventures too without any major repairs.

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AmateurMisy t1_jdnooa7 wrote

People post photos of old alarm clocks a lot. I don't post mine, but I'm still using a plug-in digital clock radio that I received as a gift in 1978. It's been my daily alarm for almost 45 years.

The only things I have that are older are books. I have a lot of books I bought in the mid-1970s and at least a few that were my mother's.

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jenpalex t1_jdqde6v wrote

My British Services brand wrist watch.

It was a present for my 14th birthday, which I wear every day, now well into my 71st year.

It runs from -1 to +1 minutes fast or slow. So that makes life just that little bit more exciting.

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spambearpig t1_jdnllgj wrote

Fjallraven jacket, 23yrs old and still fine.

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daexxead t1_jdnoa9c wrote

Seiko automatic divers watch. 23 years and counting.

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[deleted] t1_jdod8vg wrote

[deleted]

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Potential_Wave_3662 t1_jdt4lly wrote

Has the quality decreased a lot? I was really thinking about purchasing a backpack from them

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SRSchiavone t1_jdu14wr wrote

I don’t think so. I’ve never heard of this drop off in quality ever before from anyone in the sub.

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Prior-Treacle6955 t1_jdquq88 wrote

My 1992 toyota 4runner, Japanese version. 390.000 miles and using it every day.

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ChikkuAndT t1_jdsdc39 wrote

I have been eyeing a new 4Runner, for some time!

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mrkabin t1_jdnkvp8 wrote

I have a 12 volt car battery charger that I bought at Sears in 1978. I know there must be something older that I bought. I'll think of it.

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madredditscientist t1_jdnnvab wrote

Based on the Reddit comments, the top three longest-lasting items are:

  1. Cast iron pans: These pans are known for their durability and can last for decades, even over a century. They can be passed down through generations and still maintain their quality.
  2. KitchenAid stand mixer: Many users have reported using their mixers for 20 years or more, with some even using their grandmother's mixers from the 1920s. The design has remained relatively unchanged, and the mixers are known for their reliability and longevity.
  3. Leather items (e.g., belts, jackets, and bags): Leather products, when properly cared for, can last for many years. Users have reported using leather belts and jackets for over a decade, and some have even used leather bags for 30 years or more.

Source: https://www.looria.com/bot/BuyItForLife?q=Longest+lasting+item+in+your+life

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SamuelsSteel OP t1_jdo1weo wrote

Is this a bot?

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throwaway126400963 t1_jdo4q7e wrote

Nope person using a chat gpt bot, AI is a hell of a thing, I’ve seen it used here once or twice before

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SamuelsSteel OP t1_jdo4y3w wrote

Why would they do that?

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jupiterimperetor t1_jdnsl8o wrote

I've had the same army surplus backpack for 20 years, with near constant use

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ReasonableSwimming98 t1_jdnxder wrote

For me, the most surprising thing I've got in this category is a cheap shirt-- short sleeve, plain black button up, 100% "sueded" polyester. George brand, bought at Wal-mart nearly 20 years ago. I don't know how, but it's still showing no signs of wear despite regular use. I'm sure everything else in my wardrobe has turned over at least three or four times since then.

I would likely not buy the same shirt now, just due to changes in my attitude towards clothing consumption, composition, etc. It's surprising though to find examples like this when the message about BIFL items (specifically BIFL clothing) is that they come with a price premium.

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t3chiman t1_jdo1oba wrote

Spong #1 coffee grinder, used every morning for 40 years. Yes, it’s cast iron, a 19th century design.

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keskeskes1066 t1_jdocpmx wrote

My Army dogtags. Like new 40+ years later.

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arcticrobot t1_jdnm3z6 wrote

Wahl Balder clipper. Bought it about 20 years ago after got fed up with all other clippers failing on me. Been using at least twice a week to shave my head. That makes it around 2000 uses already.

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SamuelsSteel OP t1_jdo1znl wrote

Every time we use the Wahls at the house I hear money being saved.

Great tools

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unrealun t1_jdnyrdx wrote

I still have a Weatherproof jacket that I bought at a now-closed department store in Philadelphia in 2002. I've used it every winter. I've had to repair the pocket in which I keep my keys because I stupidly would forget to retract my car key, but that's all.

It was not expensive at all; I'm pretty sure I paid less than $60 for it.

And there is all manner of antique furniture -- sideboards, bureaus, tables and whatnot -- that we use every day and are more than 100 years old, passed down through our families, but I don't think that's your question.

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hagcel t1_jdo1ixs wrote

I have a WWIi canvas satchel that is just about to die. I've owned it for 22 years, and bought it to replace one I bought in 1988 that got stolen.

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SamuelsSteel OP t1_jdo47ei wrote

That canvas…that stuff was so freaking thick.

I’d bet if you got ahold of another and waxed it, it would truly last forever

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Ok-Apricot-3156 t1_je0qgfu wrote

I use these one of these (1950's dutch army model) as a grocery and one as a work bag, they do start to show signs of wear after roughly 2 decades of semi daily use, I wax them with straight paraphene candlesticks to make it rain resistant, but they do get quite stiff from that.

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untitledgrapefruit t1_jdo61cz wrote

Master lock from 6th grade, still use it 4x a week at the gym and I'm 36.

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bellalye-84 t1_jdohxwb wrote

A hand-me-down cable knit cardigan that my mom loaned me on a chilly day in 2012. She’s been wearing it regularly since the mid 80s.

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PangolinKisses t1_jdoixvy wrote

I bought an Incase Icon laptop backpack in 2005 (I think) in college. Lasted me through daily use in college for 3 years, a year of teaching English abroad where I used it as my daily work purse/carryall, traveled to maybe 7 different countries with it as my carryon/daily use bag, then a few years later my husband took over and used it daily as his work bag for a few years. In total about 15 years of daily use and it still looks brand new.

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jillbillpill t1_jdoluul wrote

Briggs and Riley luggage set from 2009. It’s also the fanciest, most expensive thing I own. I’ve been to many countries and hundreds of trips with those beasts. I love them so much. A handle came off once (not the main handle but a side one) about 10 years after purchase. The bags have a lifetime warranty and the bag handle was repaired and replaced within a week. Especially impressive, because they don’t even sell the color bags I have anymore. Haven’t for at least 5 years at that point.

People always ask me what luggage I recommend. If you anticipate traveling a lot over the course of your lifetime—not just internationally, but between states to visit family, weekend trips, etc.—you should (if possible, of course) save up and purchase the bags you need from Briggs and Riley. I have never owned or needed luggage from anywhere else in my adult life.

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clamo5 t1_jdvukbg wrote

I love Briggs and Reilly. I’ve had the same briefcase since 2005. It looks almost brand new. Certainly, doesn’t look like it’s been all over the world and used daily for 18 years. I’ve since switched all my luggage to Riggs and Reilly. Not only is the product stellar but the warranty and customer service are great. I’ve only had to use the warranty once for a manufacturer defect (missing screw). Prior to that I had Travel Pro aircrew luggage. It was also really good but not quite the same. In between, I bought regular tourist quality stuff and it sucked. Saving money upfront is always the best way to actually save money.

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jillbillpill t1_jdvvhb7 wrote

Yes! Their stuff and my kitchenaid mixer are the most “Buy It For Life” things I own!

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TheGutch74 t1_jdoqesd wrote

Leatherman Supertool. Bought in 1998 as a supplement for my motorcycles tool kit when I did a yearlong US roadtrip.

Rubbermaid Action Packer. Bought in 1994 and still in use. The handles/ closures have taken some serious UV damage but still function. The other three I have were bought sometime in the early 2000"s and still going strong.

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PeterC18st t1_jdorfzs wrote

Keychain metal bottle opener from 2000. Gift from my then girlfriend when her and her family went to Vegas. It’s been and edc on my chain wallet 23+ years. Still opens bottles without issue.

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ClnSlt t1_jdoxg34 wrote

A three ring hole puncher from 1990. Just used it yesterday.

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cp0221 t1_jdp3hu7 wrote

A black suit that my grandma bought in the 80s and I had tailored to fit me a few years ago. It’s a unicorn suit that fits through pregnancy, postpartum, and normal life fluctuations. One of my favorite possessions.

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luckynrusty t1_jdpldfk wrote

Tiffany sterling silver pill box. Going on 30 yrs.

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staplesz t1_jdqmvxh wrote

Probably an old ‘86 Toyota pickup and an old puch moped..

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tysonesque t1_jdshhvb wrote

Electric oil heater from communist era, made in Romania. That fucker is too heavy to throw away, so it stayed in the house 2 generations now. Had a bad reputation for ruining sockets and guzzling electricity but it never did any of those things(for me at least). Built like a tank, works like a charm.

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mattrussell2319 t1_jdtk9xo wrote

My viola. I’ve had it for 27 years. It’s been repaired a few times but still makes a lovely sound.

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BumHoleItchy t1_jduf433 wrote

1997 Sony Trinitron, family got new in 97. Still being used regularly since I love retro video games.

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superfluous_tortilla t1_jdnu5ph wrote

Duracrest electric hand mixer that was a wedding present for my parents in 1969, my mother gave it to me probably 20 years ago. It still works great.

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jezebella47 t1_jdo0p51 wrote

My Grandma's cast iron skillet. Runner-up: a pair of Justin Ropers I bought 30+ years ago.

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Tiny-Background-8862 t1_jdo3xrw wrote

My car organizer for my trunk or my portable charger + the case with it. Love the organization 🙂

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cosmorocker13 t1_jdol3kl wrote

Mr Coffee machine I use it every day for 30yrs

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PetulantPersimmon t1_jdour0e wrote

The scissors that came with my grade 1 school supply set. They are not the kind of scissors I'd give to a first grader. They're not 'safety' scissors by any stretch of the imagination. You could stab a man with them. Almost 30 years and going strong!

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ohsixer t1_jdp5mb3 wrote

But, could you stab a woman with them?? /s

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reptomcraddick t1_jdoxoqx wrote

My watch, I wear it every day and I bought it 7 years ago

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cherlin t1_jdp335p wrote

My 1992 Gibson les Paul, my 13 year old Mitchell leather money clip wallet, my 1980's thiel floor standing speakers, and my 14 year old Fuji bicycle stand out for me.

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CarriageTrail t1_jdp50ub wrote

I use my late grandmother’s Beautyware canisters daily. They’re from the 1950s.

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ClarissaDarjeeling t1_jdp62u4 wrote

I bought a used Yamaha U3 (upright piano) in 2011, which was manufactured in the 80s. Still sounds lovely! No creaking or sticking keys, and she holds her pitch like a charm.

Granted, I don't practice enough and generally play more softly. Otherwise, studio pianos really start to show their age after a few decades.

We also have a quilt that my partner's grandma made for him as a newborn. It's beautiful, colorful, and looks like it could have been sewn yesterday.

Not sure which is older, the quilt or the piano...

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gilzoo t1_jdph0zf wrote

A Superman pillow case that was part of a set I was given when I was 5 years old. (I’m 48 now). My son used it exclusively for about a 15 years (He’s 17 now). Currently in the linen drawer and still comes out from time to time.

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newnamewhodis23 t1_jdpj9hl wrote

A LL Bean jacket I got as present 27 years ago. It aged well.

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Steelringin t1_jdpr94z wrote

Probably my Estwing framing hammer. The first quality tool I ever owned. Had it since I was 14 so almost 30 years old. Saw plenty of professional use in my 20s and 30s now it's semi- retired. Used it today break up some concrete while doing some plumbing in my basement.

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Starman562 t1_jdprt2h wrote

My safety razor. It's a 1955 Gillette Super Speed that I bought in 2015, and use it every few days, obviously. I actually have a lot of vintage items, but none have seen as much use by me as my razor.

Correction: my oldest possession which sees constant use is actually my "unbreakable" carbon comb that I bought new sometime between '09-'11. Now that I use daily.

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altmjw t1_jdradcc wrote

Is it a Chicago comb?

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Starman562 t1_jdsvypl wrote

It's actually a Kent Brushes SPC80 comb. I actually spent the better part of an hour finding it online, but it was that distinctive beige packaging that pointed me in the right way. No forgetting that royal seal of approval.

Definitely gifting my brother a Chicago comb after he gets back from his trip to Turkey :)

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altmjw t1_jdxxom6 wrote

I feel you, I browsed combs for just as long before deciding on my model 1 Chicago comb, after my hair kept getting snagged in the bent tooth of my cheap Walmart comb.

Edit: thank you for the link!

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Chonkalonkfatneek t1_jdqvggr wrote

A seiko automatic. My dad gave ut to me 11 years ago and it's well over 30 years old .

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SRSchiavone t1_jdu12fi wrote

JC Penny blanket, 1930s wooden desk and matching dresser and nightstand

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suitopseudo t1_jdu8fpc wrote

Farberware ss mixing bowl. I know it was my mom’s and had it when I was I little kid. I can’t tell you how many boxed cake mixes and fruit salads have been in that thing.

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LunarEngineer t1_jdv5w42 wrote

My P38 can opener. My dad gave me his Korean war issue one, and it has, sadly, outlasted him...

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thriftyalbino t1_jdwoguh wrote

I had my first Vaude backpack given to me in November 2001. I’m turning 27 this year, my backpack will have its 22nd birthday. Still waterproof ❤️

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Ok-Apricot-3156 t1_je0oy1r wrote

An 1880/1890 sewing machine that my grandmother inherited, not sure from whom, I use it to lockstitch thick layers of leather and leather like material that my normal (electric) sewing machine can't handle. I found a box of needles for it at a junk sale a while back for a good price, I modify them a little bit with a dremel to turn them in to leather optimized needles.

If I don't count books and decorate objects, my second oldest item that I activly use is a brownie box model 2b analog camera from 1917/1920, incredibly simple and cheap made design, nothing that can break on it. It was the first mass available camera at the time costing only 4$ film is still available pretty much everywhere and with advances in film it works better than it did in the day.

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hypolimnas t1_je3wi3o wrote

An Outback Red shirt I bought in the 80s. Still in perfect shape with the original buttons. I also have an Armstrong flute I played in school in the 70s. It was a hand-me-down from my uncle. Probably the oldest things I have are battered first editions of some of the early OZ books. The kids in my mother's family apparently loved them, and they all ended up with me.

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frisky_husky t1_jea7r3o wrote

My violin! Musical instruments are sort of cheating, but I have a violin from 1895 (young by some standards) that has outlived many owners. Got it for a relative steal because nobody (including several dealers) could decipher the maker's signature, so it had to be sold as unattributed, but we know when it was made (1895) and where (New York). It's not my primary instrument, as tone preferences has changed and it's a bit soft, but it's an excellent violin and great for practicing, and for Irish music.

A well-kept violin can live indefinitely, but they need to be played. I actually tested one from the 17th century, but it needed pretty extensive repairs, which probably would've tripled the cost. A violin will not survive as a decoration piece, which is why even instruments kept by institutional collectors and museums are usually loaned out to professionals. Many of the most coveted concert instruments are 300+ years old and still being used everyday. Interestingly, the Guarneri, Stradivari, and Guadagnini violins that became the standard weren't really prized to the extent they are today until the Romantic era, because they were too loud for chamber performance. With larger orchestras and concert halls, it became necessary to have a solo instrument that could hold its own against an orchestra without amplification.

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Freak-s-Utopia t1_jebqdvb wrote

A guitar I've got in my teens, I mean musical instruments last centuries if well cared for.

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Ackchyually_Man t1_jdrxrbf wrote

In terms of value, silver coins from the coin collection/ anything else made of precious metals.

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spacemonkey-1966 t1_jdvgwvi wrote

9mm beretta 92fs. Bought it on my 21st birthday and im 56 now. Put 10k multiple rounds through it with no issues.

Also have a case pocketknife that my grandfather bought back around 1920 that i still use regularly. Works great still.

Amazing that it appears to be firearms and knives that last the longest.

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SamuelsSteel OP t1_jdvj7iq wrote

I agree on this, but you’re the first to mention a firearm or knife on this thread (other than one Swiss army I think)

If that was the case then the Remington 700 30-06 is my oldest item I think.

Papaw bought it for my Dad when he turned 18. So it’s now over 60 years old. I love the rifle but hate shooting it because of the recoil. I refuse to modify it with a new butt pad like a Limbsaver because it will mess up the original condition.

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