I know what you mean. Doing a Solo Flawless Crota EM when he was end game when the Gjallarhorn was still top dog was one of my greatens feats of gaming. Getting close, but knowing you're one swipe from a knight or Crota from failing. It was good stuff.
That's one thing I wish Bungie would do more of, retire certain end game loot when the end game moves on. Something to prove the Guardian Veterans did some feat back when it was the hardest time to do it.
So many hours were spent in VOG, and now it's a patrol level walk in the park.
Biggy, I added you but I'm alone. Let me know a good time for you, I'm east coast USA.