Bob- funny you mention the Silvers pad...it's one modification I've really been thinking about doing to make the rifle look more like the classic English guns. I also agree the RSM is tough to beat for the price; a custom barrel with the integral quarter rib would probably be as expensive as Ruger's entire rifle.

Someone mentioned that one of our local dealers usually stocks several 375's and is willing to let customers pick through them to find what they want. I'm going to try them next week to see if I can avoid going sight unseen (I doubt I'd be as lucky as you were).