I have the Merkel in 500NE and Chapuis in 9.3X74R. The Chapuis is new but I really like it so far. The Merkel is 4 years old now. I've taken 3 Elephant including 1 large bull, several Buffalo, and other assorted game. I can't see ever getting rid of it. It is a great shooter and fits like a glove. My only complaint is that it is a bit light for caliber. I highly recommend the Merkel!

I like the K-Gun and it's decocking system but as Mac says, it doesn't fit me either. I've shot several and find the decocking device to be a nice design.

Again as Mac states, I would stay far away from the Blaser S2. That gun is likely to get you stomped on one day!

Heym is a great rifle but more spendy than the others. If you have the $'s, it is probably the best choice.

One that has not been mentioned here is Searcy. I plan on having Butch build one for me next year in 450/400. I have NEVER heard anything negative about the Searcy's and from what I understand, customer service is second to none. I'm sure someone with firsthand info can fill you in better than I.

For the money, I would go with the Merkel; and that statement is not meant as a compromise. It's a great rifle, hell for stout, easy to match the regulation load, reliable, and doesn't break the bank, relatively speaking.

Just a personal opinion but I would choose the 500NE over the 470NE. The 500 is getting more and more popular now days and finding ammo for it should not be a problem, even in Africa. I don't know if you reload or not but if you plan on shooting a NE double much, you probably will or else you shouldn't fear the Heym or VC price tags.

The 500 has a similar recoil level but gives you quite a bit more than the 470. The straight wall cases are easy to reload and last a long time as well. Just something to think about.

Good luck on your search but remember that doubles are like hunting Africa. One will not get it out of your system. In fact, I'm just about as obsessed with DRs as I am Africa itself!