Thanks all.

I do plan on getting to Africa in the next couple of years. Almost went to Zimbabwe about three years ago, but cancelled because of the crap Moograbme was doing to his country. Doesn't look like it's any better now.

I have been watching the price of doubles go up and up, so getting one now and having some quality time with it sounded like a good idea to me. Until then, there will be more trees in Texas in great danger. And I thought it would be great on armadillos.

Great suggestion on the smaller caliber - I can have a mistress AND a girlfriend. I have been focusing on the 9.3x74 for a while now.

I have shot a lot and have done a lot of research on terminal rounds, and you just can't beat the older calibers. There's a lot of stuff out there that is bigger and faster, but it does not kill any more or as effectively.

Mickey, thanks for the advice. I never even considered getting my scrotum caught in the ejector. Spoken like a man of experience. If you can, I would appreciate any tips you can give me on avoiding that uncomfortable situation.

I can put my hands on a used 577 Searcy quickly. The Cabela's store that carries it is two hours south of Dallas in Buda, TX. I talked to them at length, but got few answers. The length of pull to the front trigger is 15 inches which is just right for me. Since it was a consignment, they had no idea what mix it was regulated with, and there were no cartridges or brass that came with it.

I saw something on here about this possibly being the third owner. Without any of the rifle specific information I asked for, that is probably dead on. A third owner in such a short time tells me that we are dealing with a string of "mine's bigger than yours" buyers, who have little regard for doubles in general.

While I am sure that Butch can give me the particulars, I am getting a little leary of a lovely lady that has been in 3 abusive relationships.

I will look for double perverts like myself at the DSC convention.

And I don't have one of those damn ICQ ("I seek you" - sounds like a bunch of stalkers) numbers yet, but I will get one and add it to my profile.