I own a Chapuis in 9.3x74R; I've only had it about six months. The inside of the carrying case indicates a manufacture date of 1978. I have put something over 300 rounds through it with no problems noted. I purchased it used and have no record of the number of rounds fired by the previous owner. As best I can tell it would be classed as a REX but does not have all the features listed on the Chapuis webpage for that model. It has engraved plates but the grip cap is not engraved; it does not have a cheek piece. The wood is nice. I tried several different powder and bullet combinations to find one that worked substantially better than the rest. I am impressed with the accuracy of this rifle/ammo combination.

I had considered purchasing a double for a while and examined various options. I had considered a Merkel; I own a Merkel sxs 20 ga. and am happy with the feel and performance. The wood is very nice. I am not overly impressed with the general fit of the metal pieces to the wood. Checkering overruns are obvious. This was also the case with the Merkel double rifle I looked at. The one I looked at was also in 416 Rigby; I did not want a rimless cartridge. Some may consider this scrutiny of cosmetics as nit picking, but I feel that a $6,500+ rifle should offer more than the Merkel did. I also looked at a Heym. I liked it a lot but could not get past the chambering; it was in 458 Win. Fit and finish were excellent. Had the Heym been in a different caliber, I would probably own it now.

I personally do not know nor have I dealt with the folks at Champlin's. I know people that have, and I have only heard positive comments and recommendations. I do know that their webpage has complimentary words to say about Chapuis doubles. The overall wood to metal fit, checkering, etc. are head and shoulders above the Merkel products I have seen (and the one I own). I do not say this to offend; this has simply been my observation. I may someday own a Merkel double rifle. I have thought about getting one in a smaller caliber like say 7x65r, 30R Blaser(though I know little about this chambering), 8x57IRS, or even the 6.5x57r.

I do wish my Chapuis had provisions for mounting a scope. It does not have the removable blocks. While I might never mount a scope, I would like the option. I do like the feel without a scope, but I also like the light gathering ability of good scopes both early and late in the day.

My best load so far accuracy wise has been with the Speer 270gr using VV N135. I tried the Speer with several other powders; the next best load used IMR4064. I briefly tried Nosler 250gr ballistic tips but did not really pursue a good loading for them. I now have some Lapua 18.5g Mega bullets to try when personal time is more plentiful.

Douglas Mays
Happy Chapuis 9.3x74R owner and budding double addict.