Dave, I am having the flat top checkering. I wasn't sure about it until I saw this rifle up here. As a matter of fact the one I handled is the 7x57 that is on their website.

My bet is that the detail in the barrel you have ordered is going to take some time. Mine is a simple #4 with no sights. I was afraid to put too much money in a barrel since I wear them out so fast. After talking to Ralf I might be wrong assuming that 3000-4000 rounds will shoot it out. He said that the hammer forged barrels they use will retain their accuracy for 10,000 rounds. That would take even me a lot of years to wear out.

I was hoping for 10 to 12 months on delivery. I desperately want to go to Africa next year with the Hagn so 12 months would let me take a late season trip. If not I'll just go elk hunting like normal in October and go to Africa in 2008. The last thing I want to do is try to rush those guys.

Marco Polo sheep would be a heck of a nice hunting trip. Pretty much out of my price range though, but I should be able to swing Africa every third year or so.

Take care,
Josh