The Last Bass Outpost

It's good to see more familiar names. 

Tony, there's only limited size photo uploading directly from your computer to the forum. But you can do it by clicking the Additional Options to the lower left of the posting text box.

Best bet is to get yourself a free Photobucket account and upload your photos there. Each photo will have an IMG URL you can copy and paste directly into your post.

I don't feel old but some situations make you think twice. Like hearing my next door neighbor talk about how he never expected at his age to be raising his grandkids, and finding out he's 14 years younger than I am. 

Phil, I noticed the Polish leg researcher's first name was Boguslaw. Maybe an indicator of the quality of his research. It must have been interesting doing the field work. Or should I say legwork.

Mark, I knew it had to be an old pic just by the absence of chrome. 

I wouldn't leave it as is unless I could even out the color difference with that dark piece on the lower bout. Beside the point anyway since you've already decided to veneer it. But I really can't blame Gibson for the dark non-matching piece. That's exactly why it was chosen for a solid color finish.

Re your sanding efforts and Gibson nitro durability, we really don't know all the details of what they use. Could be nitro color coats over an oil- or epoxy-based sealer. Could still be a nitro sealer, but the formulas have changed over the years.

I'd volunteer to interview him anytime!

Sue him for failing to have an email, and get your interview when you bring him in for a deposition.