Brian,

First let me thank you sincerely for your service to our country. We are indebted to your dedication.

Now let me say there is nothing that gives more pleasure than a small to medium bore double rifle. I have quite a few. The most recent is a Rigby .360 made in 1880 I posted here.

My little Rigby isn't a true .360 (though that's what it says on the Rigby ledger). It has a bore diameter of .370" and grooves of about .380". By any other name it is a .38-55! It regulates to the 200 grain Sierra .375 bullet and is a joy to shoot. It will be death to our white tail deer, given an opportunity.

Keep in mind, in spite of all the discussion above, that a double rifle will be specific to one bullet weight (or a very narrow range of weights). While you can shuck any bullet weight through the Win. '94 and compensate with the rear sight elevator, the DR will rigidly demand it's chosen bullet weight. So "versatility" in this sense depends on the load your Chapuis wants to shoot.

I'm a great fan of the .30-30 Win. It was my very first rifle and my very first white tail kill at age 13. Even so, if I were pondering your decision I would certainly consider the Chapuis chambered in 8x57JRS or .30 Blaser. The 8x57JRS would be a peach. Just ask the zillions of happy owners of such rifles that are spread across the continent of Europe.

Whatever you decide, you are going to love it.

Best,
Curl