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One that has not been mentioned here is Searcy. I plan on having Butch build one for me next year in 450/400. I have NEVER heard anything negative about the Searcy's and from what I understand, customer service is second to none. I'm sure someone with firsthand info can fill you in better than I.

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Let me first say two things. I TOO have never heard anything negative about Searcy doubles.

Second, I have a soft spot in my heart for Butch, because years ago (1985) he converted my LH custom 700 that seized up after the first shot on a cape buff by installing a Winchester 70 CRF extractor and ejector, back when he was in NM and was perhaps the only one doing such work. I'd give him a lot of slack because I have personal experience with his work.

That said, there are two points on which I would like clarification. One, I read a source somewhere that said PHs at SCI were questioned about a certain unnamed US maker of double rifles. The immediate reaction was "way too heavy and ungainly," if I recall correctly. That was a while ago, and even if they might have been referring to Butch's work, I know that he has made some modifications over the years. How many US makers are there?

Terry Wieland, in his Dangerous Game Rifles 2nd edition, refers to an unnamed US maker and the fact that folks asked him why no mention in the first edition. His comments are worth study. Specifically, he describes incidents where the double simply does not work. Does this refer to Butch's rifles? You tell me, I do not know, and I have never seen of handled one of his double rifles. I would certainly like to do so -- and to hear from those who have them.

In fact, I would be delighted to learn those sources do NOT refer to Searcy rifles and that they are as superb as I want them to be.

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Norm Solberg
American Lawyer In Japan
NRA Life Member for over 40 years

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