Hello gentlemen,

Thank you for the welcome.

Mac; My rifle was done by SSK and I'm really pleased with the final product. I originally wanted to do a 577NE or the 600JDJ, but the logistics weren't realistic. I wanted to go sans muzzle break, maintain good field carry weight, and retain the Ruger appearance. Feeding one of the giants was also an issue. I'm glad I went with the 500 as it's been more fun than I can describe.

Gryphon; John was a cousin who was sadly afflicted with the less impressive genetics of our family....

Rimshot; I've been playing with 375s for quite some time and I shoot mine a lot. Here are a few loads that have been favourites for various disciplines:

72.0/RL15...Sierra 250 SPBT or Nosler 260 Partition
Great for varmints & medium game

80.0/RL19...Sierra 300 SPBT
Excellent long range performance

77.0/IMR4350...Sierra 300 SPBT
Another great all around load

67.0/IMR4064...Nosler 300 Partition
My big game load

I'll try to mooch a digital camera next weekend and shoot a couple of pictures of the 375 and the 500.

Anybody do any paper patching for their big bores?

Take care.

Holmes