The first step of education is knowing what you dont know.

After reading all of the great advice so far, help from SOS, excellent customer service from Heym etc here is my current thought process. Mind you I still have eight months to change my mind.

- I think I am going to just stick with a bolt action until I have more safari experience.

- I need to attend the Reno convention. I have been trying to go for the last three years but I keep missing it because of deployments. Eventually the dates will line up.

- I have a lot to learn about doubles. Especially pre war doubles. Every time I am back to the states on leave I am going to make an effort to find some quality dealers and handle some doubles for myself. I am also going to continue to troll here.

- I ordered "In the Salt". I love a good safari book recommendation.

- I'm definitely not getting a 577. That was never even a consideration. I think the recoil of a 500 NE is going to be plenty enough for me.

BTW - 20 replies in under 24 hours! Nitroexpress is one friendly board!