Why aren't they more popular?? The cost of the double is the primary reason, IMHO.

If they were not so much more expensive than the normal other actioned rifles, more people would have tried them and realize how SUPERIOR they are for most hunting.

I have found that the immediate second shot is much more useful than the increased magazine capacity of other repeating rifles.

As to calibres I think the 9,3x74R is the best all round, not too big for the "small stuff" and just enough for the "big stuff".

For strictly deer sized game the 7x65R [for Europeans], and the 30-06 for Americans will do.

However, I still think the 9,3x74R is hard to beat.

I have taken quite a bit of game with my 9,3x74R Chapuis Double, and have found it perfect in every way.