DD

I think that part of the nebulousness of the answers is do to the subjective nature of the question. 400, 470 and Rusty are all correct but what we are taking about is a 'NEW' rifle for US$10,000 vs a 'USED' one for the same approximate price.

The cost of a 'NEW' Best Quality English Rifle would be in the high 20s and up. It is no surprise that a 10k rifle doesn't stack up. A Searcy is a very good rifle, for what it is and what it is intended to be. It is not a Best Quality English rifle or even close.

Searcy's are, I'm told, made from better steel than older rifles and because of this can do away with the third fastner and Chopper Lump barrels. They contend it is not necessary because of the size of their actions, I think it is because it is cheaper to make them this way. Because of the size of the actions and monoblocked barrels I find them clubby and awkward to handle compared to my English guns. They are evidently aware of this as I understand that they have been reconfigured with the new price increase.

I think that a Double Rifle should feel almost femine, slim, quick, well balanced and a pleaure to handle. It should be an extension of your hands and arms. The Searcy and other similiar rifles just don't have this. If you play with a number of English Rifles and others you will understand. Like Pornography, you'll know it when you see it.