As we seem to be paraphrasing Terry Wielands book, he states some interesting data. As mentioned by others in this topic, the 500 Nitro brass is used to make the .470 ammo, which is simply necked down and therefore, as Terry states, as long as there is a market for the .470 Nitro the .500 brass will be available. Terry also states that the 500 Nitro in 3 1/4 was first to arive on the scene with the 3" coming later. He quotes George of Champlin arms as stating that for every 3 1/4" 500 Nitro he sees he probably sees 10 of the 500 3" rifles. The 3 1/4" is much more rare of a find.

I had the privelage of shooting several fine doubles yesterday, ranging anywhere from a .577 to 2-- 450/400's with a 500 3 1/4 and 470 in between. I can honestly say I did not notice any significant difference in recoil between the 470 and 500. Having said that I will also say these were all English Best Guns. The reason I say this is that I have fired several lower grade guns and felt recoil was significantly higher. Yes, Virginia, there is a difference in guns, with the old saying, "you get what you pay for", does at times hold true in double rifles.

As to feeling undergunned, that is not the issue with me nor was it what I intended by asking my earlier question. I feel you can easily take anything that walks this planet with many of the calibers smaller than the 500 Nitro. I simply have a fascination for this particular caliber.
Thank you,

Ripp