Forums.NitroExpress.com

I have ordered my first double rifle, a SIACE 9.3x74 Alaska Deluxe SL. I am in a bit of a quandry as to whether or not I should put a scope on it. SIACE insist that I can only mount a scope with a rail on it, which limits my choice to European 30mm tubes. The scope that I have/had in mind is the Schmidt & Bender 1.1-4x Zenith. All was well until I saw a Merkel 9.3x74 on Gunsamerica.com that had a similar sized Swarovski mounted on it.
http://www.gunsamerica.com/guns/976782353.htm
To me looks very top heavy and out of proportion on such a small framed rig. I asked SIACE if they could supply conventional rings to enable me to mount a Leupy 1.5-5x and they responded with a "no" because the scope would be mounted too low and therefore the rifle could not be opened. I have spent little time with a double rifle in my hands however cant figure out the rationale behind that answer.
So anyone who has hunted with a double of similar capabilities any advice would be appreciated. I envisage using this rifle in Africa to hunt lion, leopard, possibly buff and any plains game that is within range.

An out of proportion 30mm schmidt or stick with just the irons?

P.S I also own a Dakota Safari 416,a tack driving Dakota 300 win, and same Dakota 340 weatherby. So have some acceptable long range rigs as well.

Thanks for any words of wisdom.

Post Extras