Taking the Nitro Plunge....

[theelectricfox]

I'm finally ready to purchase my double. I'm thinking I am going to go with B.Searcy instead of Chaupis(they don't offer .500NE and I'm kinda set on that caliber).


Now here is the "kicker" literally. I shoot large bore handguns, .460 mag, .500 Mag with stout loads. I regularly shoot my 10 gauge double with 3 &1/2 inch magnum shells for high geese. The largest rifle caliber I have ever fired though, is 5.56mm. I do shoot competitive shotgun, so it's not uncommon for me to go through 1000 shells in 1 day. I've never been recoil sensitive....yet.

How much trouble am I getting myself in to for for stepping up to a nitro express caliber(.470NE or .500NE)? Is there any way to prepare me for what is coming...such as getting a bolt action rifle in medium caliber to practice with? And what is the recoil like? A large push or a harsh snap? I really want to set myself up with a solid double for a trip to Africa. I have talked with various fine gun shops that said using a Mercury Recoil reducer is a no-no with doubles, since it throws off the balance of the rifle.




I figure if Ernest Hemingway can lug around a .577 Nitro half drunk, it can't be that bad....or can it?

 

[AkMike]

If you have any questions about handling the recoil I suggest that you fins someone with a DR in your area and ask to try them out. A 450 NE or a 470NE are about a dead even race with the same specs. The 500NE is a step up in power and recoil.
If you can't find anyone with a DR see about a 458 WM or a 458 Lott. They're similar to the 450 NE and the Lott about like a 500.
Searcy is a great choice for a new rifle! I have one in a 450 NE and it's one of the best shooting rifles I have. Then there's Searcy's no BS lifetime warranty that can't be sneezed at.

I've got some pictures of my Searcy shown in my photo area.