This may be old news to some but I thought I'd share with others who may not know. I have personally handled a sxs (yes! that is side by side) double rifle from Baikal (not Spartan) in 30/06 calibre.

I viewed the gun when I collected my latest addittion (and first double rifle) a sxs Pedersoli in 8x57JRS.

My first impressions on the Baikal was that it was extremely light so I'd imagine that this would be a nightmare in 45/70 and also the build quality left a lot to be desired. That said for $1,375 with case, you could have your own sxs double rifle to play with.

To be honest it really wasn't in the same league as my Pedersoli quality wise, but I also understand that Baikal have produced this at a price that is affordable for a lot of hunters and for that i am truly grateful. To be honest I will be purchasing a 45/70 when / if they surface in this country but for the near future my thirst has been briefly quenched with my latest toy.

PS. If any of the guys out there in the know of the Australian double scene, have had any experience with a Pedersoli double rifle and most likely my 8x57JRS as it is only one of two apparently sold in this country, I would appreciate hearing from them.

According to Graham Forbes (importer Pedersoli Australia) there were only two of these rifles sold here, and Australian Shooter did a story and test on one several years ago. I have scoured through my collection of old mags but have come up with nothing therefore if anyone knows something about the rifle or has a copy of the article I would love to hear from them.

Thanks,

Michael.