Thanks Huvius,
Yes, it seems Mauser even still make a version with the original wing safety, but I couldn't find the prices. It seems some people in Africa still like that safety but it beats me. In locked-bolt position it's deadly slow; standing up it's noisy for a right-hander and prone to being bumped off. The only variation I've ever liked was a right-side low-scope effort, which could be disengaged with thumb and forefinger for quietness or the just the thumb for speed, but was only safe when protected by a scope. None provide much assurance against a weak trigger spring.

Mauser's other safeties look OK but if the rifles cost anywhere near $9000 I'd prefer the sliding ones on a German double at twice the price.

- Paul