I have been ask several times about a double rifle and was asked to post this as well. I do so knowing there are several here with more knowledge than I so feel free to correct me as the important thing is to get good information to the fellows.
Many here and other places have asked about getting a non dangerous game caliber double rifle. I would never tell anyone not to get a rifle they want, but speaking only for myself, I would not. There is nothing a double can do a bolt action can not do with the exception of getting off a quicker second shot. Doubles are expensive, are regulated ( hard to change ammo-weight, powder, even bullet mfg, velocity ), heavy, and are short range rifles. Yes, people like Chapuis and Fortner have come up with ways that allow loads to be changed but they are not cheap or even good, IMHO.
However, if you are headed to Africa and intend to hunt Dangerous game, then the "idea" of owning and hunting with a double rifle is hard to resist and we did not. There is, in fact, something about hunting with a double in Africa that just makes it --"perfect"
But if you go down that rabbit hole, I recommend you get a double that "fits" you and should come to the shoulder like a fine shotgun. I would recommend a 450/400 with a Trijicon RMR , double triggers, side locks, ( instead of the box lock ) and we always bought an extra set of side locks in case something broke ) ---this has been debated for a long time, we just preferred side locks---BUT. there are some very good guns made with box locks. Also W.R. makes a drop lock and if you carry an extra drop lock with you, this is a very easy repair. Also the Germans have the Blitz. All the patents have expired years ago and there are many variations to chose from.
I have to admit I am curious as to the mind set of those younger than I. If you were headed to Africa for a DG hunt and was going to buy a double rifle----what caliber would it be ?
Many here and other places have asked about getting a non dangerous game caliber double rifle. I would never tell anyone not to get a rifle they want, but speaking only for myself, I would not. There is nothing a double can do a bolt action can not do with the exception of getting off a quicker second shot. Doubles are expensive, are regulated ( hard to change ammo-weight, powder, even bullet mfg, velocity ), heavy, and are short range rifles. Yes, people like Chapuis and Fortner have come up with ways that allow loads to be changed but they are not cheap or even good, IMHO.
However, if you are headed to Africa and intend to hunt Dangerous game, then the "idea" of owning and hunting with a double rifle is hard to resist and we did not. There is, in fact, something about hunting with a double in Africa that just makes it --"perfect"
But if you go down that rabbit hole, I recommend you get a double that "fits" you and should come to the shoulder like a fine shotgun. I would recommend a 450/400 with a Trijicon RMR , double triggers, side locks, ( instead of the box lock ) and we always bought an extra set of side locks in case something broke ) ---this has been debated for a long time, we just preferred side locks---BUT. there are some very good guns made with box locks. Also W.R. makes a drop lock and if you carry an extra drop lock with you, this is a very easy repair. Also the Germans have the Blitz. All the patents have expired years ago and there are many variations to chose from.
I have to admit I am curious as to the mind set of those younger than I. If you were headed to Africa for a DG hunt and was going to buy a double rifle----what caliber would it be ?
Last edited: