Westley,

You're correct in that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I have to admit, when I first started learning about double rifles, I didn't like the splinter fore-end. Didn't know how to hold the barrels, had no understanding of history and nostalgia of the old English guns, etc. For me, the splinter was a bit like Single Malt Scotch in that is was an acquired taste and since becoming familiar with them, it's just what I prefer now.

But rest assured, in a pinch, I'll still drink a Chivas Reagal.

Cheers man!