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Heres the little I can offer. I too like the Pedersoli rifles. I have a double muzzle loader made by CVA in 50 caliber. I would have prefered the 72 cal; but I got mine used for a great trade. You'll have to ask others for recommendations about the 58cal for buff; BUT I did see a TV show where the guy was using his 58 cal Pedersoli to hunt elephant. He was using a solid (not lead) bullet not a sabot with a plastic base, so that the bullet was the full 58 cal size. He took the bull with a brain shot. I was impressed.

Regarding the cartridge rifle. I really like the old world looks. Personally I dont believe the hammers will be a problem if you practice before the hunt. Get used to them just like a safety. They have the advantage of being quiet if you press the trigger when you cock the hammer, plus there is no pressure on the springs when its not cocked. Perhaps thats not a big issue but Kreighoff built a special system into their "hammerless" guns to cock/uncock them.

Now as far as cartridge choice, heres what I have been told by others with African experience. The Pedersoli is a copy of a Colt double rife originally in 45-70. As far as I know 45-70 is not legal for Dangerous Game in any of the African countries. So if DG is in your plans, you have a couple choices. The 9.3x74R is a classic big game cartridge and legal for dangerous stuff. Your other option is to have the 45-70 rechambered. I have heard of good experience with 450NE or 450 No2. As a happy bonus they are supposed to shoot to the same point of impact.

My only real complaint with the cartridge guns are the price, here in the US they run about $3500 and the 9.3 is usually a special order. Ive heard about a gunsmith McCools(?) that will do the 450 rechamber for $100+/-.
So there you have what little I can offer. keep us informed on your decision. GOOD LUCK

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If it's not custom, it's just borrowed

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