If what Rigby are offering works for someone, perfect. Give them your money - you know what works best for you, and do go out and hunt with it! That's all that matters in the end.

That said, my friend Joel's criticisms were out of a reverence for the Rigby name, and they were not intended to cut the firm down. He is a strict classicist and prefers the prewar designs exactly as they used to be. If someone wants the newer ones, I am sure he would be happy to wish them "Good Hunting," and with all happiness in his heart.

Best wishes and do invite those of your friends who have bought the new Rigbys to post here, and to participate on the forums. There's a lot of room for civilized debate and discussion, especially among hunters and gun owners with different opinions. We are all enriched by this.