mickey

Concerning the 450 3 1/4 action, I believe somewhere either you or another menber stated that most of the entry level or lower grade DR's were built on the same size action as the 470 and other bigger calibers instead of slimer actions more approprate to caliber? Assuming this, wouldn't these rifles have less recoil?

I am not an expert nor have I ever claimed to be one when it comes to DR's. As you have stated, there are many people who know very little about DR's, but have a definate interset in purchasing one and have no idea of where to start looking and what to look for in making a selection. There are far too many brands and grades to consider when starting a search to purchase a DR. As I have stated, I also have a limited knowledge of DR's. Because of this limited knowledge of DR's, I have used the theory that you get what you pay for, stick to the Holland & Holland, Rigby and other very expensive Doubles. But, I do believe that there are DR's out there that are considerably less expensive than the above, that are of good quality and will serve one as well as the very expensive DR's, they just are not as fancy andone is not paying a premiun for the name. I could be wrong, but if this is true, I believe this forum is the place to inform future buyers.

A few days ago you started a topic on WHO IS THE BEST BUILDERS OF DR'S TODAY. I made a post on that topic (third page) asking if 3,4,of 5 of the most knowledgeable members coujld come up with a list of DR's in three time peeriods. Please refer back to that post. I believe this would be very beneficial to many members of this forum.

Last night I searched the internet briefely for DR's and on one site came up with the following makers :
Greifelt & Co.
Continental Arms
Merkel Safari
Merkel 140-A
Austrian Guild
Victor Sarasquetta
R B Rodda

These were all for sale on one site. The prices ranged from US $7599.00 to $10,900.00. The rifles seemed to be virtually about the same as to features. There are places on this forum to find DR builders of past and present, but there is no break down as to the quality and features of these rifles. Maybe now is the time to create an area with descriptions and the quality of the various DR's that are for sale. As we both know, not everyone can afford to spend $150,000.00 to $180,000.00 for a Holland & Holland Best Quality DR. I would assume that some of the lesser expensive DR's, even some of the above are of a quality that would be suitable for those looking for a DR and not having a fortune to spend.

These are my thoughts!