The new barrel is a full 4" shorter! That, I think, is the biggest aesthetic detraction.

John, you are probably right about the men debating the value of the original Rigbys in period, just as we do today. There is a lot more competition in that market today than pre-war and the high end buyer has a greater expectation in regard to fit and finish than the man looking for a working rifle in the '20s.
I am probably being too harsh on the guns but I do, however, fear that these new Rigby Big Game rifles are not living up to the name (not as bad as CalRigby of course) and the few guys I know whom have handled them were not impressed. Particular comment was made regarding how they "felt", and this from gents with considerable vintage rifle experience.
Just look at the Rigby that Schwandt sold a while ago. What a beauty that one is!
http://www.schwandtclassicarms.com/magnificent_original_rigby_416_b.htm

Why they didn't just copy one of these exactly is beyond me.