Great points all around and I agree on all counts. You're right about the differing dynamics involved in the way doubles recoil vs. single barrels and also about the load stresses placed on anything mounted on top that is going for the ride. The height and weight of the bases, rings, and scope also play a significant role in single barrels, but there is only one recoil dynamic that a single barrel imposes on mounted hardware verses two for the double rifle. Good points. I didn't look at it that way and I certainly should have. Heavier hardware, especially when mounted higher, will resist the movement of the recoiling rifle more so than lighter weight material. The heavier the scope and mounts, the more it'll want to stay stationary as the rifle begins to move backward and therefore imposes more stress on anything mounted to the barrels.

With the greater attention to mounting the scope on a double, as you pointed out, and making sure that it's carried out with utmost precision, I would still vote for having a scope available for a double. Following your advice and sending it back to the maker will cost a heck of a lot more money, but should be worth the effort.

Thank you for your well thought out response