Okay aa50 can take 2-10+ hours. Global can take 6 hours to a few days.
The longest aa50 game I had lasted 32 hours because Germany was on the brink of losing, had a miracle defense against UK USA attack… Hit improved artillery with 1 tech roll that has been going for a long time suddenly has enough to kill south europe, survives another UK all in blast. Meanwhile Japans 30 tanks 5 bombers dies to Russia 25 inf 2 USA fighter (5 aa gun hits) the Game that refused to end.
So global just takes long where as aa50 if it takes long it is because the game ending battles failed.
You sir, encapsulate the spirit of the game! I can’t say that I’d do the same… (I went so far as to slap some paint and decals on my minis), but at the end of the day - I’m with ya. I did apply clear tape to my AAA50 box though - kinda laminated in a cheap way, but it travels with me on occasion (over the Atlantic in a suitcase).
You call others “die hard” players? Perhaps, but in my book you’re the step up, the “hardcore” player!