I had the fortune of shooting a .500 NE double (last year) and have to acquire a rifle in that chambering. However (being "cheap") and not wanting to pay the prices asked for "traditional" big bores (Gunsamerica has a nice .577 NE double for $150k (incorrectly spelled Holand & Holand)), I was looking into the Krieghoff .500, available for $8,500 at the Cabelas Gun Library. After looking around, Bowen will rebarrel a #1 .458 to .500 NE for about $1,500. If I were to ever DG hunt in Africa, I will be taking my .416.

I am wondering if you think:

1) Is there a better alternative to .500 NE that could be chambered in the newer model #1? (or other things I should consider?)

2) Is the cost difference between a Krieghoff .500 (@ $8500) worth it over a #1 .500 at $2,500? (and if so, why do you feel that way?)

3) I understand nostaglia, but how many "double owners" actually make it to an African DG hunt, and if they don't, wouldn't they be as well off with a #1?

This is my first post here, so please be tolerant, and thanks for your help.

John