Shoot what you like.
I believe if you tried an AR-10, it would help with that antique fetish.
I mean, I like souping up flathead Fords and shooting my Blue-Star Garand, but when I really want performance I embrace technology.
The good old days really were not THAT great.
they are OK...the .308 is about my speed....but I would prefer a FN FAL or a M1A.
when I play with antiques it is with my original 1873 Winchester made in 1882 in 44-40
when I want performance (ie, kill bison)I shoot my 1884 Trapdoor in 45-70 or shoot my sons modern 1895 Marlin in 45-70 with my hotrodded ammo.....
generally I prefer Revolvers over autoloaders...except for my 1943 bone stock military 1911A1 remington rand which is my favorite handgun.