Black powder Civil War firearms (Model 1861 Rifle Musket, among others)...it's amazing how dirty one gets with them. Lol. Good fun though and one learns how to keep the sight on target because of how slow the ball moved down the barrel.
Kids with M-16s, what could go wrong? Lol. I think it's good that you've had a go at it though, it means you're a little more understanding of what's involved. I'm not sure how old you were in the mid 80's but I'd say young. I started shooting around 1989 (19yo) and took to it instantly. I don't love guns, they're just a tool, but it's something that has brought enjoyment, taken me to many places I might not have gone otherwise.