I am looking for help--ideas--opinions--feedback. First let me say that I have never owned a double rifle. Just recently I am finding that I can probably afford to do this, so I am proceeding under the assumption that it can be done, and that I can do it. I am a gunsmith and an engraver so I believe that I can build this gun to fit me and make it look the way I want it to. I have been working in the trade for 24 years and have access to a machine shop and of course I have all of the necessary hand tools. My main reasons for this build are two-fold. First and foremost I WANT a double rifle. And second, I want the pleasure of building it. Given that I know little about double guns, here are a couple of easy questions for you guys (I hope)

I am leaning toward a 470 NE. I think it is plenty of medicine for my african plans, and the breech face thrust will be less than the 500, 577, 600, etc.(At least I think so--I haven't checked pressures on current factory ammunition yet....) So, given the 470 NE, what would you say that a preferred barrel length would be for a double?? I currently own two double underlug, greener crossbolt actions, so will probably use one of them for this project (Hmm--maybe??) Neither one of these have ejectors, so it will be extractors only or change to a different action. What do you think?? An OLD gunsmith friend of mine mentioned that he had seen doubles with barrels that had rifling twists in opposite directions (one RH and one LH). I understand the reasons why....but at the short ranges that these guns are used I can't see that it would make much difference. As long as I am ordering barrels I guess I could order them that way......

What about barrel diameters at the muzzle?? Any thoughts??

Listen guys, I know what some of the manufacturers are doing with these questions. I am not going to just accept what they are doing as gospel. I know there are lots of ways to arrive at a destination. I am really interested in your thoughts and ideas here. So, hold forth. I am listening.

Thanks for your help.