HI AS:

I have a Chapuis Brousse in 470 NE. I looked at many, many doubles before I made my final decision. The wood on the Chapuis is upgraded and usually stunning compared to Merkel, Kreighoff and the expensive Heyms. Heym don't even put an oil finish their stocks. And for $3k to $5k more I think they should. The plastic pistol cap and general finish of the Merkels left me a little cold. The Kreighoff cocking system would have to take some getting used to, and the very plain engraving was real plain, but I liked the rifle. The two Searcy's I saw were used and dinged up, one wouldn't eject from the right barrel. The Heym at opening shot of $15K + was not blowing up my skirt.

The engraving and the wood to metal finish on my Chapuis is very, very good. They balance the best for me compared to Searcy, Merkel, and Kreighoff. Mine weighs in a 10.5 lbs. I just happen to prefer beavertail forends, especially when you are humping the rifle on your shoulder, a wider resting place sure does feel better. I also like grabing the forearm not the barrels.

And the best part, they just plain shoot. Mine does less than 1.5 inches at 50 yards for four shots, 2R/2L.

Also break open the action and look at the meat around the face of the barrels. Compare that to Merkel & Kreighoff, it makes them look like shotgun barrels. Searcy also has alot of steel around those big holes.

You might want to talk to JJ at Champlins or go to their website and see what he has to say about Chapuis.

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Regards... PAHUnter