I have a scoped Chapuis in 9.3x74R and a Searcy Field Grade in .470 NE.

The Chapuis also has 20 ga barrels and makes an almost perfect combination for its intended use. It is probably the best shotgun I've ever used on pheasant, grouse, chukkar, and quail. Absolutely wonderful ... with a very, very long reach.

As a 9.3 it has been a little challenging to create loads that match its regulation. When that was done, it has been working very well.

Chapuis stocks tend to be a little long. Recoil of a full house 9.3x74R on such a light rifle is a bit surprising. I'd not want to shoot one in .470 if it is as relatively light per caliber.

The Searcy is more accurate and easier to load for than the 9.3x74R ... but is definitely a "working" gun. Not as slender or "elegant." I think that has been improved on the PH model.

There is a fella on this board with a Chapuis .470 who has shot my Searcy and Chapuis. I understand he has ordered a 9.3x74R Chapuis as well. Maybe he will chime in here. (Frank???)

In the medium bore the Chapuis would be hard to beat. I'd certainly try the fit of both the Chapuis and the Searcy in larger calibers. (I love the Searcy and would not change my choice, but it was driven by cost as I am not well to do any more.) I don't see how Searcy's service could be any better ... hard to say of Chapuis.

I think Chapuis made a 500/416 at one time if not currently ... they provided the chamber drawings that Kreighoff verified they used. If that caliber is available that might be a dynamite compromise. However, I've heard it said that Butch felt that the 500/416 has a recoil almost equivalent to the .470 NE.

mike starling