Here is my learned opinion.

If you are not interested in becoming a collector then I recommend a Merkel 9.3x74R with a scope. You can pick these up for under $6000.00 and will serve you extremely well. Hell, you don't even have to reload.

If you know you want a pre-war British double, based on your budget, go for a 500 BPE with fluid steel barrels. If you can afford a .577 BPE get it. These are very popular and can be liquidated fast.

Stay away from odd-ball cartridges. These are for the true collectors who don't shot.

Some rifles are odd-ball, but great. I bought a fully nitro proof back-action, underlever 500/450 Hollis made in 1906 for a song. It's my favorite gun to shoot.

B.