Cal's Logbook

A Few More Questions to Cal

2010-11-11T06:32:00.002-09:00

Dear Cal:
You have been kind enough to help me for reloading my .470 NE. I hope you don't mind if I ask you another question (I do enjoy reading your articles in the African Hunter.)

I have attached a picture of a .470 NE lead cast bullet with 4 wax gas checks. Do you use bullets with gas checks in your doubles? I am shooting a Chapius. Will gas checks, and in particular several gas checks, result in excessive pressure?
Thanks
Roger F.
USA

Roger:
It is always good to hear from you.
The gas checks your refer to are lube grooves. Correctly, you have filled them with wax to help the bullets pass through the bore and leaving as little lead as possible in the bore. They will not have any affect of pressure and I use them on all of my cast bullets.

A gas check is a metal cup that is pressed on the bullet’s base to keep the lead from melting with the hot burning gas from the gunpowder. This will cause lead deposits in the bore. You have a plain-base bullet for your .470 therefore a gas check can’t be fitted.
Good shooting,
Cal

Dear Cal:
What is an acceptable deviation between the regulated bullet weight and a different bullet weight of choice?
J.D. E.
USA

J.D.
There is no “set in stone” deviation for double rifle bullet weight and regulation. Some doubles will only shoot one weight to one velocity and that is that. Others will shoot a large variety of bullets styles, weights, and velocities and group fairly well. It does seem the larger the bore size the more forgiving the rifle is as to changes from the regulated load. Shooters are finding that many lighter bullets will regulate with the “75% rule.” This can be a bullet weight of 75% and a full charge of powder or a 75% powder charge and a full bullet weight. I’ve seen both shoot well and others not shoot accurately at all.

With the newfound popularity of double rifles, shooters are experimenting more and finding more things what will work.

Good shooting,
Cal

Dear Cal:
What is your opinion on the best caliber for elephant and buffalo in double
rifles? It seems the .450 calibers with their 480- to 500-grain bullets are very
close in performance. The .500 NE with its 570 grain bullets seems a step up, but
in performance but I don't know. Your thoughts, please.
Tom V.
USA

Tom:
You are right--there is little to choose between any of the offerings between .450 and .476. If the British bureaucrats did not outlaw the .450 caliber in India and the Sudan in the early years of the last century the big-game hunting world would had been content with the three .450s: the .450 3 1/4, the .500-450, and the .450 no2.
The .500 is indeed a step up but only by approximately 10%--not that much.

As to my opinion as to the best is this: any caliber over .400 that the shooter can shoot well and not be afraid of the recoil. With the correct bullets, all will drop any elephant or buffalo, with correct placement, of course. Choice of rifles is also to be considered--bolt or double--and that may determine what cartridge one uses.

Good shooting,
Cal

Dear Cal:
I am starting the loading project with the Holland and Holland .500 3 1/4 BPE I showed you. I have read Graeme Wright's 3rd edition for insight, and am about to slug the bore to assess for taper and check the neck dimension. HDS is selling a Woodleigh 440-grain jacketed bullet of .510”, but I'm not sure this is intended for the Holland bore, since the original bullets were lead grooved and lubed, not paper patched. I would assume that this is a thinly jacketed bullet that is intended to resist the problems with black powder fowling, however, if the H&H bore is .500 to .502”, I'm not sure I could use these due to limited chamber diameter at the neck and potentially pressure problems. I'm inclined to start with a soft lubed bullet first, sized to the bore and see what it does. If you have any insights, I would appreciate any help.
Dave P.
USA

Dave:
Good to hear from you. Why don’t you come up this weekend and reload and shoot a bit?

The Woodleighs may be too hard for an old black powder steel--especially so if that is all you shoot. Your rifle was made for lead, so I feel it is best to stick with lead. Also, the tapered bore of your rifle may be too small for a standard diameter bullet--most so at the small end of the taper.

The tapered bore you write of must have been a headache to produce. The fine rifling--only .001-.002” deep will, indeed, prevent not only much black powder residue but also lead deposits. First of all, I would use a soft lead bullet--much as muzzle loaders use--so the bullet will bump-up to fill the bore. Then, I would size the bullet to the largest diameter of the bore. Size and trim the brass and use a powder charge to approximate the original load--let’s say 130-135 grains of FFg GOEX. Place a wax wad between the powder and the bullet. I doubt you will need a spacer wad. The bullet should weigh in the neighborhood of 440 grains.

Good shooting and let me know how how the accuracy is!
Cal

Dear Cal:
I have question regarding the impact points for a double rifle; if a double rifle is regulated at 50 Yards, does this mean (assuming perfect conditions in all respects) that both barrels are shooting to exactly the same spot over 50 yards and then at 100 yards the two bullet holes (one from each barrel) should have a distance between them which is equal to the distance between the two barrels with another doubling at 150 yards and so on?

The question is prompted by my having fitted a telescope (Swarovski 1 - 1.5) to my Krieghoff .375 H&H mag. The gun is regulated at 50 yards for Norma 350gr ammo.

Regards,
Chuck in SA

Chuck:
Good question, a bit complex for my knowledge, but I will give it a go.

A double shoots to a point of regulation due to convergence of the barrels. This convergence is combined with a constant velocity and bullet weight. Things can change and keep accuracy but it is best to keep with what the rifle was regulated for.

Because the right barrel moves up, back, and to the right upon ignition and the left barrel moves up, back, and to the left the bullets will print at the regulated velocity. Move the target farther out and the bullets may cross. They will also cross at the regulated distance if the velocity is increased. Move the distance closer than the regulated distance and the bullets may print apart. Remember, as he bullet is moving down the bore the barrel is moving to the (right or left).

When you change the characteristics of the rifle, including adding weight to the rifle such as a scope, the recoil characteristics will change as so will the bullet’s path. When I had a scope added to my .450-400 to aid my old eyes I had a gunsmith find a midpoint regulation for both scope and open sights--but regulating for either would have seen a tighter group. If I had to do it all over again, I would keep a fine regulation with open sights and sight in the scope for one barrel only (I fire the left barrel first) to pinpoint accuracy to 200 yards. I don’t think there is a mathematical formula for this. If there was, then fine doubles would be regulated by machine rather than by hand.

I hope this helps.
Good shooting,
Cal

Dear Cal:
I am waiting for Butch Searcy to give me a bit of feedback with regard
to the double rifle he agreed to make in trade for my Harley.
I elected to request the 470 NE, but must admit that since I received a
couple of sample bullets, that caliber may be over the top for me. I am
already having second thoughts that the 450-400-3" may have been a
better choice, since I am not likely to ever get to Africa to hunt
dangerous game.

I am lacking a bit more information and think your expertise would help.

As I look at the myriad of double rifles that come up for sale, I am
unable to discern whether the rifles command greater prices when
accompanied by a custom case. Can you comment on this. (i.e. Do you
recognize a substantial benefit in value and desirability related to
resale when a custom case accompanies a DR.) I ask this because Mr.
Searcy offers a custom case for $1500. Believe me when I say that a case
in that price range exceeds the value of most other rifles I own, even
some of my pre-64 Winchesters, and as such I don't want to make a
foolish purchase. If a Searcy custom case will add somewhere in the
neighborhood of $1000 of after market value should I elect to sell the
rifle, I think I would make the investment.
Any thoughts?
Thanks,
Bob N.
USA

Bob:
As a Harley (one of my unrealized dreams) man you will understand my reply.

You will add all the accessories to a Harley to make it truly yours--chrome, saddle bags, etc. You will never get your money out of all the add-ons when you sell it.

The same is true with a double rifle case. They go with the rifle when it is sold. I have never seen a rifle priced to sell with a second price for the case. This is true for new doubles as well as vintage rifles and shotguns.

While the caliber may be a bit too much if you are not hunting elephant or buffalo the rifle will be worth more upon resale than a smaller caliber.

I don't know what a custom case is in this situation. A good English style oak and leather case has value. Huey makes them and will cost up to 4,000$ with accessories and tools added and fitted. If the custom case is a plastic or aluminum case and made to fit a wide spectrum of guns, I'd pass. But, no matter what you do, think of the Harley accessories thought above.

Cheers,
Cal

Cal :
What can you tell me about the 500 nitro? What kind of range does it have and can it be hand loaded? Im thinking of getting one to go to Africa to hunt with. Is it a good round for dangerous game?
Alex D. USA

Alex:
Thanks for your email.
The .500 is an outstanding African cartridge--far less recoil than the .577 or .600 and more punch than the .450-class of cartridges. That being said, I do feel the .500 has been a bit overstated in literature.

The .500 is about 10% more in muzzle energy, recoil is 15-20% more, and rifles are much more expensive (for vintage English doubles) than in the .450-.470 class or cartridges.

Hand loading is no problem but you must keep to safe pressures and to also to obtain the correct regulation of the bullets. Brass and bullets are obtainable at Huntingtons and the dies and shell holders from both Huntingtons and CH Tool.

The range of most doubles is 100 yards (approximately) but many shoot accurately much farther than that. Dangerous game is usually shot at much less than 100 yards, however.

Are you looking at a modern production rifle or an older one? If you get a single shot you can play with the velocity and bullet weight much more than with a double.

I hope this helps and good shooting.
Cal

Q&A for the log--August 2010

2010-09-22T07:08:00.000-08:00

Good day:
Here are a few Q&A that may be of interest to you.
Cheers,
Cal
Hi

Dear Cal:
I have a William Douglass double in .470NE and like it a lot but I am after a trade label. Do you know where I could get one? Thanks.
Cheers
Steve M.
USA

Steve:
Good day. Galazan (Connecticut Shotgun) has a good supply of labels as does Mike Messina who does gun case work for Griffin and Howe. Either of these should find you the label you need.
Good shooting,
Cal

Dear Cal:
I am in discussions with Butch Searcy about acquiring one of his Classic DRs.
His web site says price is $18K.
My questions:
#1 If I get his Classic, what is the best caliber if I expect to sell the rifle within 5 years.
#2 If I keep the rifle in as new condition, what should I expect to see as a reasonable price if I sell it within 5 years?
Thanks,
Bob N.
USA

Bob:
Good to hear from you.
Butch makes an excellent double rifle and has a loyal following the world over. While my interests lie in vintage English doubles, I would purchase on of Butch's rifles in a New York minute for any time of hunting should I want a modern rifle. To answer your questions:
1. The bigger the caliber the more desirable it will be for resale. Nothing smaller than .450-400. That and the .450, .470, and .500 have commercial ammunition readily available and that is a plus. The .577 and .600 are there, too, but most folks would rather stay away from the added recoil and cost.
2. For a new rifle you will be doing good to recoup your cost. I doubt it will appreciate in value and, depending on what is being made when you are ready to sell, you could see a small loss.

For additional thought is this. If you have 18K to spend, why not look for a vintage English double? You should find one in a mid-sized caliber and it will have history, lines and balance that any modern rifle can't match, and should climb in value as the years pass.

Good luck in your choice and good shooting.
Cal

Dear Cal:
I live in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and have done a fair amount of hunting myself. Spent my boyhood years in the south-east, in Chiredzi where I did a lot of plains game hunting. As the years marched on, I looked for bigger challenges, namely buffalo and elephant, using a friend's .416 Rigby.

Many years ago, about 1998, I shot a rifle which gave me quite the boot. I think that it was a .450 Ackley; is there such a weapon of this calibre? If so, could you provide me with some information on it, plus something on it's ballistics?
Regards,
Andy B.

Andy:
Good to hear from a fella in my favorite country!
The .450 Ackley is the original .450 Watts case with the taper removed and the smallest of shoulder. In the world of cartridge oneupmanship is was supposed to add a grain or two of powder but I doubt any big game animal felt the difference. Ballistics are the same as the Watts round or the .458 Lott what followed the Watts 22 years later. I will mail you a scan of the cartridge and its ballistics for your information.
Good shooting,
Cal

Dear Cal:
I am so glad I found your site! I, too, love double rifles! I have a question...I need an 8-bore and a 4-bore cartridge for my collection. Could you please shed some light as to where I can find one? Inert will be OK! Any help would certainly be appreciated!
Bill B.
SC, USA

Bill:
4s and 8s are found via cartridge collecting organizations and they can be Googles as I don't have any personal experience with any of them. If you will accept new brass then Google Rocky Mountain Cartirdge and talk to the owner, Dave Casey. I doubt he will run one case but when he makes a run for a bore rifle owner perhaps he can make an additional one or two for you.

Cheers and good shooting,
Cal

Dear Cal:
I am still looking for a double.
Do you have any experience with Rigby`s "B" class? (Their "A" class and "Best" rifles are way beyond my reach.) They seem to be very nice rifles, at a reasonable price.
Will English "B" class rifles usually be of the same quality as their more expensive relatives? I will use the rifle for practical hunting in the African bush.

Best regards
Anders M.

Anders:
It has been awhile. Nice to hear from you!
The English grading of best quality and A-B-C grades are for embellishment only. The quality of materials is the same as is the construction and craftsmanship. You can't go wrong with ANY double made in the UK. I do not have any personal experience with Rigby's B grade. However, if it is a London Rigby, it has to be good!

Good shooting,
Cal

Dear Cal:
I purchased a Holland double in .450 BPE. It's on Monte Whitley's website if you care to look. It is breathtaking! I will follow with Larry at Superior on the ammo.

I looked at Keith's Patstone in .577. Monte Whitley also had a Rigby in what he calls .577/500 magnum. Are those the same cartridges. I assume that is a serious stopping rifle for buff and elephant? I like the Rigby name but it's about twice the price of the Patstone and it too is in excellent condition. Thoughts? Do you think Superior would also be a source for ammo for the .577?
Thanks!!!
Stewart McD.
USA

Stewart:
Good to hear from you. I looked at both of the rifles, the .450 and .577-500. Very nice!
The two cartridges are quite different.
Keith's is the .577 3" which was most likely made for 6 drams and a bullet between 570 and 650 grains.
The .577-500 magnum is a case 3 1/8" long and a .577 necked to .500. The .577-500 no2 is the same configuration but with a case about 2 3/4" long. The magnum is much preferred but more rare.

The Rigby would be my choice as it is a Rigby. I've not heard of Pastone before.

Superior can make the ammo no problem--and so can you. Just get .577 cases, trim them to length, and run them through a sizing die and you should have it. See Cartridges of the World for info on the calibers.

If you are interested in big bore shotguns, I have a 4 and 8 bore single shots on my site.

Contact me if I can be of any service and good shooing,
Cal

My Hunting Colleague Takes a Zimbabwe Elephant

2010-08-10T07:42:00.000-08:00

2010-06-30T18:44:00.001-08:00

Rich Sanfilippo has this beautiful 12-bore double rifle flintlock. This is the first flintlock to be added to the site. I believe the barrels are 25 1/2 inches and the weight is about 11 pounds. It should be interesting getting a double flintlock to regulate. I know nothing about regulating a muzzle loading rifle and look forward to Rich educating me! You can see two photos of this rifle on the website.

Where Have All the Hunters Gone? by Cal Pappas

2010-05-22T19:07:00.000-08:00

Where Have All the Hunters Gone?
by Cal Pappas

Where have all the hunters gone?
Long time passing.
Where have all the hunters gone?
Long time ago.
Where have all the hunters gone?
Behind high fences every one.
When will they ever learn?
Oh, when will they ever learn?

The year was 2002. I booked a plains game hunt to South Africa after four trips to my beloved Zimbabwe. After a pleasant (but rather long) flight to Johannesburg and a greeting from my PH we drove to a ranch north of Pietersburg. The next day we were up bright and early and, as I stepped into the Land Rover, my PH said to me, “Cal, today I’ll drive you up to a nice waterbuck for you to shoot.” My reply was, “No. Let’s drive out a bit, find some tracks and follow the spoor on foot and then, if I see a good representative animal, I will shoot.”
.
My hunter looked at me as if gut-shot with surprise. Then he offered his hand and said, “You are the first American I have guided who wants to actually hunt.” His reply was an eye opener. Upon returning home I began a long look into all aspects of our sport (or activity) and what folks do to hunt less and kill more.

“It’s not the fault of the hunting industry over here,” my PH went on to say. “We only do what the clients want. If they are not happy they will go home and say so and we take a loss of revenue.” What he said was probably true. I remember on my second hunt in the Save Conservancy (1997) and hearing a doctor say how he shot his kudu at night as it was transfixed on the vehicle’s headlights. The PH confided in me he didn’t like it but what could he do? In the early 1990s when I was breaking into the hunting world a booking agent offered me, “All four North American sheep in two days--if you have the money.” As time goes by the list gets longer.

After thirteen trips to Africa and one to Australia I don’t have the last word in experience but I do have a bit more than armchair memories. My Zimbabwe PH tells me the majority of his bow hunters shoot with a rifle and pose with a bow. The same was echoed by several South African PHs I spoke with--many allow the bow hunter to use their rifle. Add this to the number of bow “hunters” who just sit at a water hole or feed stand and wait for thirsty or hungry game to appear in front of the blind, or hide. This takes the excitement and high skill out of bow hunting. In fact, when I go to Anchorage and stay at a friend’s condo and watch the Outdoor Channel I have never seen a true bow hunt in the wild. Everything is from tree stands or ground blinds. They can shoot a bow very well--but they can’t track and they can’t hunt. Many ranches have one waterhole in each high fence enclosure. The animals must go there to drink.

It’s not just the bow hunters. More and more rifle hunters shoot from blinds, from a vehicle, use a spotlight, or drive through the hunting area looking for game to shoot-sometimes not even stepping out of the vehicle. Craig Boddington said in his excellent dvd, Boddington on Elephant, “Of course no one would ever shoot an elephant over a water hole.” It would be great if Craig’s words were followed by hunters. In the Tsholotsho area of Zimbabwe, boardering Wanke Park to the south, I know of elephants only being taken at the water hole and at night with a spotlight. I really don’t see many honest tracking hunts anymore. Fair chase includes chasing in a vehicle, it seems. I like and appreciate John Sharp’s advertisements in the African Hunter magazine: “Track down your game on foot--the real way.” And that is the way it is meant to be. But isn’t so much anymore. A video of a pronghorn hunt in the western US showed the shooter with a bench and a mechanical rifle rest on a hilltop. He made his kill at several hundred yards but didn’t hunt and didn’t track.

Look at all of the gadgets that are sold to increase one’s success but keep those from truly experiencing what actual hunting is. Scent blocking shoes, clothes, and even chewing gum(!), muzzle loaders that don’t look like muzzle loaders, bows that don’t look like bows, recoil reducers, muzzle brakes, barrel vibration reducers, telescope reticles that look if they belong in a submarine periscope, hearing amplifiers, motion sensors, game cameras, feeding stations (some that play music so the game equates the music with food), tree stands, blinds, vehicles with shooting stands mounted on them, electronic calls, ghillie suits, more camo patterns than one can count, super whiz-bang magnums (some with ridiculous names) that shoot farther, faster, and flatter that any hunter could possibly shoot, devices to hold the rifle in place (like bench rest shooting in the field), and the list goes on. Guaranteed hunts, pre-measured animals, game farming, and, if all of the above fails, some buy taxidermy for their walls. I’ve seen a photo of a “hunter” in a hot tub on top of the shooting platform in Texas that overlooked the feed station.

I have to wonder how did our forefathers manage to kill a turkey for the first Thanksgiving? How did the buffalo hunters wipe out the herds of bison? How did early wing shooters, wild fowlers, and deer hunters manage success? They didn’t have any of the above stuff when they hunted. A well-known deer ranch invited me to hunt there in 2010. 3000 deer on 3000 acres (surrounded by a high fence, of course). The first hunters pay the most (about $20,000), the second batch a bit less (after the top trophies are gone), the third less than that, and so it goes through the season. 100% guaranteed kill with so many deer the quality of the trophy is also guaranteed. Since the first group of shooters selects the top scoring bucks the next group takes a decrease in size, and so it goes. Fishing in a barrel? Lots of tall tales about the business man’s shoulder mount but I doubt details of the one-day hunt are told with 100% accuracy.

As I write this (April, 2010) South African lion hunting is the topic of discussion on many forums on the internet. Canned lion hunting is the rage now as sportsmen (mostly from America) take hundreds of well-maned lions to show their friends. I doubt they tell of the lions being separated by size and mane color in paddocks, of the lions being fed meat by the land owners, of the short duration of the hunt (as compared to a true lion hunt in Tanzania or Zambia taking three weeks). And, I bet, the lion charged.

In a South African hunting magazine, Jag-Hunt, there are as many fence companies advertising as there are game farms. The price listings are for standard trophies and the price tag increases as does the horn length (“For nyala over 24 inches, price on request”). And, it is possible to have one’s trophies pre-measured to guarantee quality. One fella I know did just that. He had his pre-measured white rhino waiting for him. The “hunt” was on video for all his friends and relatives to enjoy and he knew his name would be well-up in the record books. His field experience of the “hunt” was a few hours. A ranch in Montana is saving their top bison in a separate pasture for the “hunter” willing to pay $10,000 for their top trophy.

In the vintage years of the Victorian and Edwardian eras rarely did a sportsman (or woman) keep a list of horn length or trophy size. Only ivory was weighed with the magic 100-pound mark being the holy grail. I don’t read much of Selous having to shoot a kudu with horns 1/2 an inch longer than that of Teddy Roosevelt.

Today 57-inch kudu are commonly taken as trophies. In Hemingway’s Green Hills of Africa he writes of a 57-inch kudu as having the “...most unbelievable pair of kudu horns in the world” (page 291, 1953 edition). Hemingway did an experiment in writing Green Hills. He wanted to see if a book that recorded the actual experience of a hunt could be as successful as a fictional story. It was, and today Hemingway’s African stories are read with interest and awe even in the anti gun and anti hunting liberal college campus classrooms across this great country.

Look at today’s trophy record books. In fact since Hemingway wrote of seeing the magnificent 57-inch kudu, Roland Ward has recorded 536 greater kudu (southern species) having a horn length of 57 inches or greater (26th edition). Of those, 381 have been taken in South Africa-AND only one of the entries dates before the mid-1930s when Ernest went on his safari (69 1/4 inches from 1916). Either evolution is making the greater kudu even greater (and doing it rather quickly) or they are being raised on game farms to be shot after attaining a specific horn length. Look at how many entries come from South Africa compared to Zimbabwe or Tanzania. (I know there is a difference between the southern and the East Africa species of greater kudu but I am trying to make a point).

On my second Zimbabwe hunt in 1997 I shot an old, blue eland with a .500 black powder express double rifle (Mortimer and Son # 5280). My over-zealous young PH far estimated the length of the horns at mid-30 inches (through inexperience or perhaps the desire for the trophy fee). When the animal measured about 27 inches I was disappointed. Then, I thought, “This was the best stalk of my life, shooting at less than 30 yards and taking over an hour to get that close, and using a beautiful double from 1890 of which I had the history of the first two owners.” After that I vowed to myself my emotions would never again be ruled by the tape measure.

In 2008 (I believe) a record book elk was shot in Canada but reported as being a fair chase animal taken in the States. I guess even the high-fencers do not want to admit to a canned hunt. I was offered a shot at a record book elk in America’s west in the late 1990s. I was to arrive and take a late morning walk to pick out my elk. After the shot I was to have a nice lunch while the animal was skinned, the skull and horns prepared, and I would be ready for an early afternoon departure. The ranch was 10 1/2 acres! A Canadian outfitter who hunts in open land admits to me that if he could do it all over he would change his operation to a high fence enclosure. “That’s where the money is,” he says.

The antis have lots of time and money. The entertainment elite like to pick a cause to rant over. I honestly believe when canned and guaranteed hunts are publicized our situation will worsen. In the liberal education field anti gun and anti hunting attitudes prevail. In my teaching career many parents have asked me to remove hunting photos so as not to traumatize their delicate child (they must think their burgers and steaks come from the meat tree). However, the majority of parents who, after hearing my rationalization of fair chase hunting, with the meat being used at home or in Africa, don’t have a disagreement with what I do. Imagine if I told them about shooting deer in a fenced enclosure?

My trophies are not the biggest, the best, nor the most numerous. However, I have never shot from a vehicle, or with a spot light. The soles on my Courteney boots wear out from walking “miles and miles of bloody Africa.” I don’t list my animals in trophy books--my reward comes from my memories, not from what others see or think. My choice of rifles for the past several years have been open sighted doubles and, as my eyes have grown older, I now use a 1-4x scope on my .450-400. I wear cotton in the heat of Africa and wool in the cold of Alaska. An ash bottle tells me of the wind. And, I don’t carry a tape measure. I hope Teddy would be pleased.

Recoil and double rifles

2010-05-12T20:41:00.000-08:00

Here is one more question regarding recoil in the big bore double rifles.

Dear Cal:
Tell me, do these big doubles you write of really kick as bad as some writers say they do?
Richard McCracken, UK

Richard:
I'm glad to answer this question as the topic has been biting the back of my brain for quite some time.

I guess the final straw came when I was taking a rare look at one of the many forums on firearm topics on the net. What caught my eye was some discussion on the .600 nitro express. It was interesting to read of folks who wanted to own and/or shoot a .600. I am one of the lucky ones in that I own a vintage .600--a John Wilkes double rifle from 1914, best quality, with 26 inch barrels and a weight of 15 1/3 pounds. It is truly an honor to have one of these rare and powerful vintage rifles in my collection. Anyway, whilst reading the opinions, wants, and desires of the many writers I was taken back by something one writer had to say. You know the type. He knew it all, had done it all, and was the last word on the (any) subject. He had an absolutely stupid moniker--perhaps to keep his identity private. He said, "The recoil would spin the shooter I saw 1/2 to 3/4 around." How stupid and unknowing can one be? In fact, he goes on to state that the hunters in the vintage years who shot the .600 were "when men were men and men were stupid." The heaviest recoil will push one back a step or two--it has happened to me shooting a 4-bore--but shooters are not mounted on a turntable. We don't spin when we shoot. And so began a brief look into what folks write as to recoil perceptions and misperceptions.

I remember reading an old story about Ernest Hemingway bringing a friend to Griffin and Howe's New York showroom and shooting range to test fire a .577 double rifle. The story is that the recoil broke the man's shoulder. The same result was common when Hoffman Arms was producing the .505 Gibbs in its custom bolt action rifles in the years before WWII. In the current Cartridges of the World is one of the many rounds that only duplicate the ballistics of an already produced cartridge. The .510 nitro express is basically the 3 1/4 inch Sharps cartridge loaded with smokeless powder to match the ballistics of the .500 nitro express--a common British round. The write up reports the recoil was so severe that it "tore the forearm off." (Either the rifle was poorly made or all the English .500 nitro doubles suffered the same fate.) Another report of shooting the .600 nitro express caused the shooter's ears to bleed. Others needed a few days of rest to end the headache. Another he-man wrote the recoil loosened the fillings in his teeth. A fellow named Williamson wrote of shooting a raccoon out of a tree with a tiny .45-90 Winchester. The recoil was not mentioned by the rifle was so powerful that "there was not a body to fall out of the tree." I guess the rifle completely destroyed the animal.

The writers also go to the other end of the spectrum. Many shooters of the old days mentioned the .600's recoil not even being noticed when shooting at a game animal. The same when shooting the big 8 and 4 bores at game. Craig Boddington writes of shooting an 8 bore that the recoil is a 'healthy shove rather than a violent kick." (To see what a healthy shove is, click on calpappas.com and "Shooting the 4 Bore" in the double rifles section).

Anyway, forgive my rant, but the fact is the rifles do kick. If one is a shooter who's biggest shooting experience is a .30-06 they will kick a lot! But, if you are an experienced shooter who can comfortably shoot a .375 and .458 off the bench when sighting in a new scope you will be able to handle a .577 or .600 with no problem. The error I feel many make is to hold a big rifle in the manner a smaller caliber rifle or a shotgun is held. If the firearm just rests in your hand the recoil will be difficult to manage. Do this--grip the barrels very tight with the splinter fore end just resting on the palm of your hand. As you grip the barrels tightly to keep the barrels from leaving your hand upon ignition, also use the same hand to pull the rifle back to your shoulder as tight as you can. With the other hand, keep the trigger finger loose but grip the pistol grip very tight as well as use this hand to also pull the rifle tight against the shoulder. Your aim will be very steady and the barrels won't rise more than a few inches.

One exception, heavy black powder loads under heavy lead bullets in the larger bore rifles will kick hard no matter what you do. But, If you follow the above suggestions, at least the expensive rifle will not fly out of your hands! Last of all, make sure the pull of the stock fits. Too short and you will get a bloody nose. Too long and the rifle will be difficult to shoulder.

Good shooting
Cal

Double vs. Single Shot

2010-05-09T20:15:00.000-08:00

Dear Cal:

Why were double rifles so popular in the old days when single shot and early bolt rifles were so much less expensive?

Ed Graves, USA

Ed:

You are thinking on this one, Ed. I believe the reason is four-fold. First, is the instant second shot that could save one’s life. The hunters of old did not take their first shot at 300 yards. They waited until the critter was close, too close maybe, by today’s standards. The second shot would be taken when the enraged animal was at one’s feet. A quick, 100% reliable, second shot was needed and there usually was no time for a third.

Second, with two separate locks the double rifle is actually two single shot rifles joined together. If one failed to operate through wear or accident the other was ready to go. Single barrels rifles (and single trigger doubles) don’t have this advantage.

Third, is the balance and quick pointing nature of a fine double rifle. They shoulder and point quicker than any single barreled weapon. Try it sometime with a double that fits you. Close your eyes and shoulder the rifle. When you open your eyes you will be on sight and ready to shoot. When you need a quick snap shot, there is nothing like a double--then or now.

Last of all, it was double rifles (and some singles, too) that were made for big game cartridges. The early repeaters and many single shots were mostly made for smaller, military-style cartridges. Many single shots were also target rifles. And, these too, shot cartridges that were not elephant stoppers. The largest of the Winchester repeating lever actions were the 50 express calibers. At best they were 1/2 to 2/3 of the .500x3 inch black powder express in energy, lead, and gun powder. If you wanted to hunt big game--you bought a double. And so it should be!

Good shooting,

Cal

What is a good double rifle?

2010-05-08T18:44:00.000-08:00

Hi Cal:

I too am very keen on purchasing a quality sensibly priced double. I cannot afford the English doubles but have had a good look at Krieghoff, Chapuis, Merkel and Blaser mainly in 470 caliber.

I currently use 9.3X62 scoped and 416 Rem with open sights as my two rifles and hunt primarily Southern Africa's plains game and every 5 years or so a good buffalo.

What are your thoughts on a really good double? I must say that the Blaser and Chapuis do not really appeal to me.

Kind Regards

Alex B.

Alex:

Greetings from Alaska:

The rifles you mention are all good, working, utility rifles (including the Chapuis and Blaser) and may be upgraded with engraving and figured wood for a personal treasure. One maker you failed to list was Verney-Caron of France. They make a good rifle with a unique locking system that won’t shoot loose. If you are looking for a big caliber the V-C may be the best choice. Their .577 and .600 were priced less than 23K (USD) at the SCI show in January of 2010. Ken Buch imports the V-C. Heym is another fine rifle and Chris Sells will help you select the rifle that is right for you.

The Merkel is a fine rifle, also. I believe the company has gone to just ejector doubles so the prices of used extractor rifles has fallen to very reasonable levels. As to Chapuis and Blaser I don’t have any experience but what I hear is positive.

Remember, if you shop around, you can find a used English double for a very good price. Look for a caliber that will do what you want but is not popular--such as a .475 or .476. I have personally seen several English doubles in such calibers for less than 15K USD. While I favor the lines and history of English doubles, the new European rifles (and the American Searcy, too), all work fine.

Good shooting,

Cal

What kind of double rifle did I inherit?

2010-05-07T18:43:00.000-08:00

Dear Cal:

Trying to find out who made 450 express. Got from grandpa. After taking off the barrel there looks like and egg with crown on top has p pv & fig inside design.

Gary W. USA

Gary:

If you send photos of the writing and proof marks I can help a bit and can date the rifle to an approximate time and location. From the information given here, I can’t be of much help.

Good shooting,

Cal

Limpopo Province Hunt

2010-05-06T03:55:00.001-08:00

Good afternoon, Cal
Thank you for the email address for G.R. I have been in communication with
him related to hunting with him in August. He thought 10 days for a hunt. We would be in the Limpopo Province close to Zimbabwe. I told him that I did not know how many animals I would want--he said I could shoot a "full bag" or animals of my choice.

At any rate, the plot thickens as they say and I have questions:

1. What are your thoughts on mounted heads? I am more partial to European mounts
rather than the typical wall mount with a cape. Is there a difference in the
taxidermists cost? What have you done?

2. I am inclined to take my .30-06 with 180-grain controlled expansion bullets.
Does this sound right for plains animals to you?

3. Clothing for an August hunt? Gert says it can get up to 90 degrees---sounds
like shorts and cotton clothing. What about boots? I normally wear Lowa ankle
high hiking boots---will they be too much for SA?

4. Tipping? Who do you tip on this type of hunt? How much should I budget for
each person on the hunt?

These are only brain spasms of the moment---I haven't even booked this yet.

Thanks for putting up with my ramblings.
Rob P. Anchorage

Rob:
It’s great you are making the trip to Africa for a hunt. I promise that it will not be your only trip there. While this column is for double rifles I will do my best to reply in the column as many readers may be thinking about their first hunt as are you. To answer:

1.European mounts are an excellent choice and some skulls are a wonder to behold and that wonderment can’t be seen in a shoulder mount--such as a hippo or warthog. The cost is far less: less to pepare, less to dip and pack, less as the shipping box is smaller to make and lighter and smaller to ship, less to tan, and less work to mount. I have stopped shoulder mounts all together and now do my own skull mounts.
2. The .30-06 is an excellent choice and willl drop any animal you shoot with a well-placed bullet far better than a magnum caliber where bullet placement is less than perfect. Well-constructed soft points will work fine for what you are doing.
3. It will get warm there--especially so for us Alaska hunters. Light, neutral color cotton or synthetics are best and boots that are well broken in with sock protectors.
4. I tip 10%( if I’m pleased with the hunt) for the PH and about 200$ for the camp staff if they did their jobs well. A few gifts for them like visor caps, lighters, and gloves are welcome. You can ask the PH if he needs anything from the states, too, for your tip.

Let me know how it all turns out. I have hunted with your PH three times and he is a skookum guide who can track with the best black trackers.
Good shooting and hunting,
Cal

.600 Nitro Express

2010-05-06T03:53:00.000-08:00

Dear Cal:
Here is a description of shooting the .600. “Up until fairly recently (early to mid-1980s) the .600 nitro express was hands down the biggest, nastiest, hardest hitting, and heaviest weapon you could by. It was designed for one simple purpose...to knock an elephant flat on his butt...it was really built as an exhibition piece for guys compensating. This cartridge is known for breakng collarbones, arms, shoulders...of the shooter. The .30-06 has a recoil index of 1. The .600 is 9.4--9.4 times more punishing power than a .30-06.

Joe P. USA

Joe:
Armchair experts like to write things what make the reader go, “Wow.” If the reader was not taken back by what was seen in print most of today’s writers would not get much of a following. The .600 lets you know it when you pull the trigger, do doubt about it, but your feet will remain on the ground (and so will a 6-ton elephant’s feet remain on the ground) and the muzzles will rise about 6-8 inches if you hold to control the recoil. They will rise a bit more if you let the rifle float upward upon ignition--but not uncontrolable. I, too, read what you sent and I had a good laugh. The next day I shot my .600 for ten rounds (standing) and was still alive to write these words.

Good shooting,
Cal

Double Rifle Prices

2010-05-05T18:42:00.000-08:00

Dear Cal:

Good day sir. I am a young "Zimbo" and active hunter. I have been scratching around for some time for a double and have a couple of options. Kettner .500 with ejectors, Rogue River .500 with extractors, Heym .470 with ejectors and a Victor Seragusta .375 sidelock. As a double novice, I was really hoping for some advice from yourself in regards to; .470-.500 as back up/stopping cartridges. What i should expect to pay for these weapons (all are average condition with above average bores). Extractors versus ejectors, I have heard a lot of "old boys" saying that they prefer extractors due to the noise of brass hitting the floor after being ejected attracting undue and rather nasty attention (in particular from cow ellies) I look forward to your esteemed and knowledgeable articles in the Hunter and would really appreciate your advice sir.

Kind Regards,

Chris M.

Zimbabwe

Chris:

Good to hear from you and thanks for the kind words about my writings in the African Hunter--it is my favorite magazine!

I know of most the the makers you write of. I’m sure all will function just fine. I would also recommend you look at Butch Searcy and Verney-Caron. They, too, are excellent rifles. What ever your decision is, make sure you handle and shoot it so you have a proper “feel” of the rifle and also the length of the stock (the “pull” must fit). Look at the sights--some will work with your eyes better than others. Engraving and wood-to-metal fit are not important in a working rifle but balance and quick pointing is.

For big African game bigger is better and the .500 has advantages over the .470 in bullet weight, foot-pounds of energy, and frontal area. The rifles may be a bit heavier in .500 and so will the recoil--but not much more of either. As to extractors or ejectors--neither is a preference in my opinion. No one hunts elephant commercially anymore so the noise of ejectors is a moot point but they can come in handy if a quick reload is at hand.

As to selling price, check the web sites that sell doubles such as gunsamerica and gunsinternational. I know Merkel rifles with extractors saw a good drop in price after the company began offering only ejectors. I saw .500s selling for less than $10,000USD in 2009.

With vintage English doubles climbing in price every week, more and more shooters and hunters are opting for the makes mentioned above. They all are equal as to what they will do and only the buyer can determine what rifle looks and feels the best.

Good shooting,

Cal

Leonard- the Gunmaker

2010-05-04T18:40:00.000-08:00

Dear Cal:

I read your 600 Nitro book,I really enjoyed it. Enjoyed talking to you in Dallas and Reno. Do you have any information on the gun builder Leonard?, or is he on any web sites?

Thanks,

Todd W. USA

Todd:

Thanks for your kind words on my book--I appreciate it.

As to your question on Leonard. I ran across his name in the Jeffery ledgers when I was researching the .600 book. I was taken by surprise--it seems Jeffery did not make any of his rifles but contracted the work out to others. Leonard was one. Others were Saunders, London Guns and rifles, Webley and Scott, Webley and Scott, Claborough and Johnstone, Bayeiss and Co., C.W. Andrews, and there were many more.

In addition, I know many English makers buy parts in the white from other makes in the UK as well as Europe. In Europe some towns are known for gun making such as Ferlach Austria, and St. Entienne in France. There specialists make the barrels, hammers, stocks, sights, locks, springs, etc... The same was done in Birmingham. Only a few of the London makers manufacture the entire rifle or gun on site.

Good shooting,

Cal

Who makes 4 and 8 bore rifles?

2010-05-03T18:32:00.000-08:00

Dear Cal:

Sir, can you please e-mail me the name of 4 and 8 bore rifle builders and if they have a company web site.

Thanks,

A.J., USA

A.J. :

It looks as if you have been bitten by the bore rifle bug. While some folks today do have bore rifles made to their specifications, I would guess it would be more cost effective to search out and purchase an 8- or a 4-bore vintage rifle. The one-time production cost of tooling up and making a rifle today is very expensive. Ken Owen has made some outstanding bore rifles as well as .600s and many other firearms. Clayton Nelson has done so, too, but a friend waited 12 years for his rifle! If money is not an object of concern, I’m sure any of the English makers and those on the continent will do so, also. I would guess the price for a new US or European double in one of the larger bore rifle sizes to be 60-75,000USD. From England, perhaps 150,000$ or more.

With that in mind, why not buy an original rifle that 1) you don’t have to wait for, 2) has some history with it, and 3) costs much less? Excellent condition 8-bores can be bought today for $35-40,000 USD with lesser-quality and conditioned rifles selling in the $20,000 range. On the other hand, the 12- and 10-bores cost much less and the 4-bores cost much more. As this is being written (March 2010) three 4s are for sale: A Horsley for 70K, a Hughes for 85K, and a Rodda for 125K.

Unless you must have a rifle made to your specifications, go for the vintage rifles. Reloading dies, bullet sizers, and shell holders can be made by Dave Davidson at CH Tool, bullet moulds from NEI, and wads from Precision Reloading. Have a bore and chamber cast done to assure the correct size for your dies and sizer. GOEX FFg will approximate the velocity of the original charge of black powder or Blue Dot will give the smokeless equivalent.

Good shooting,

Cal

Why I like doubles...

2010-05-02T18:31:00.000-08:00

Dear Cal:

What got you interested in double rifles and Africa?

Mike Mooney, USA

Mike:

I’ve got to do some soul searching for this one...it’s been such a long time. I guess my first exposure to Africa, and to a lesser extent, double rifles, would be old movies such as Hatari (John Wayne) and King Solomon’s Mines (Stewart Granger). At the same time period of my life I would be looking at and reading my mother’s books on African hunting. Sounds a bit strange, doesn’t it? But my mom was an artist in her younger years (1930-40s) and loved to paint animals...including African animals. At the time her only source of photos was in books by Hunter, Bell, Taylor, and others. I read and re-read the old classics without knowing how my later life would be influenced so. Today, these first editions are in a special place upon my bookshelf.

With the above in my memory banks, and like most kids of the 60s and early 70s, I liked guns, shooting and hunting. During the spring semester of my 11th grade year in high school, mom shelled out $3.95 for a copy of the 1972 Guns and Ammo Annual. Photos of 8 bores, .600 and .577 rifles and cartridges, Elmer Keith on elephants, an article on Selous, an article on the .577 Snyder handguns, etc...I still have the book and it is still looked at but now is held together with clear tape.

Last of all, in the late 1980s in Alaska, I dated an artist who had a copy of Bartel Bull’s book Safari: a Chronicle of Adventure. In this most excellent book I read a detailed account of the African safari and hunters from the early 1800s to the 1980s. It was also at this time I purchased my first double rifle, a Mortimer and Son .500bpe number 5280. A few years later, 1994, I booked my first hunt to Zimbabwe (the year the African Hunter was launched).

I was bitten and had the fever!

Good shooting,

Cal

Exactly what came in the original cases with double rifles?

2010-05-01T18:30:00.000-08:00

Dear Cal:

Exactly what came in the original cases with double rifles?

Ed Johnson, USA

Ed:

It is great finding a vintage double rifle in its original case and even more of a treat to open the case and see an assortment or original tools and accessories there. What came in a case largely depended on what the owner was to do and where he was to go. Accessories can be broken down into five categories: cleaning, repair, reloading, telescope and sighting, and miscellaneous.

Cleaning. Every cased rifle or gun was equipped with cleaning implements. Included in the case were a cleaning rod, various tips including a jag, slot, brush and mop. An oil bottle was a necessity, too. Last of all was a grease pot and wiping rag.

Repair. For general repair a set of turn screws fitted for each of the screw slots, a firing pin wrench (called a striker key across the pond) for hammer rifles and guns, and a firing pin removal tool for the hammerless. Usually included was a spare set of strikers. Perhaps a set of main springs or a compete set of locks for the finer arms, also.

Reloading: I am talking cartridge arms, here, and included a capper and de-capper, powder measure, bullet mould in the lead bullet days, bullet seater and maybe a crimping tool.

Telescope and sights. If a scope was fitted to the rifle and also to the case, then a set of turnscrews for installation and adjustment and perhaps an extra set of mounts. Scope caps or covers were also fitted to the scope. Many double rifles had an extra fore sight in a small wooden, ivory, or brass box.

Accessories could include, but not limited to, snap caps, cordite funnel, broken cartridge extractor, extra screws, sling, ammunition compartment, bullets, primers, factory load data (called a charge card) and targets.

Replacement accessories can be made new by many craftsmen today and most dealers have a supply of vintage items in their back rooms and they will include some in a case to make a sale.

Good shooting,

Cal

Transporting Double Rifle to Africa

2010-04-30T18:29:00.000-08:00

Dear Cal:

What is the best and safest way to transport a double rifle to Africa for a hunt?

Greg Hoversten, USA

Dear Greg:

The best thing, above all else, is to insure your double rifles against theft, loss, or damage. You can shop around for the best rates but I would suggest you Google Eastern Insurance as they have the fewest exclusions and the best rates I have found.

After a good insurance policy, you MUST obtain form 4457 from a US Customs office. A few years ago it used to be a good idea to use this form as proof you owned the rifles before you departed on your journey. (Actually, use the 4457 for anything with a serial number--scopes, binocs, cameras, etc.). Now, it is mandatory to have this form when you re-enter this country and many African countries, as well as countries you transit through, require this form as proof of legal ownership.

Take detailed photos and carry copies of these with you. In fact, carry copies of all of your hunting paperwork in each of your bags and the originals on your person. (If you loose your passport you’re in trouble, if you have a copy of it you will find life easier to tolerate when visiting the embassy to get a replacement).

Follow all laws and regulations to the letter-- I mean dot every i and cross every t-- for the airlines, TSA, airport procedures, and, most of all, when you are in a foreign country. Don’t argue with anyone even if you know they are wrong. Just smile and be very polite! Calmly ask for their supervisor if you must. Keep your ammunition locked in a small hard case and in a separate luggage bag from your rifle. Don’t even think of traveling with black powder cartridges. Don’t take ammo other than what your rifle(s) is chambered for (no ammo gifts for your PH). And, your ammo’s headstamp must match the rifle’s (i.e. no reformed cases). Don’t put snap caps in a double rifle or shotgun (the unknowing will absolutely jump out of their skin if they see a snap cap in a chamber). Buy the best hard case you can and put your rifle in a padded soft case within the hard case. Have a replacement locking mechanism along (extra lock and key or SKB replaceable locks). Carry cleaning implements with you (no spray oil--take a squeeze bottle).

Try to attract as little attention as possible. By this I mean don’t advertise you are a hunter by your clothes or loud talk. There are plenty on antis out there who love to make life difficult for a hunter. (One of which I have personal experience works in the permit office in Amsterdam. He stated to me each week for six consecutive weeks my permit was on the way. After speaking to the director, I received my permit pronto). It may be a good idea to pack your break-down double in a short hard case and put this case in a canvas luggage bag. Or, put your gun case in a large hockey player’s gear bag. If you are going to return with wood or stone carvings, bring along some bubble wrap and, on the way over, use the bubble wrap around your rifle(s).

If you have a long layover, you can claim and recheck your luggage. This way you will know if it is there and if not, you can trace it from your last point of departure.

Last of all, it has become common in South Africa for criminals within the airport to use an ice pick to open the zippers of a locked bag and steal items. It may be better to travel with two locking cases without zippers. If this happens don't expect any assistance from South African Air!

I hope this helps. Good shooting,

Cal

Rare Double Cartridges .360no2, .369, .475, .476 and .600

2010-04-29T17:17:00.000-08:00

Dear Cal:

Why did some seemingly excellent double rifle cartridges fail to become popular such as the .360no2, .369, .475, .476, and .600 (to name a few)?

Josiah Hanson, USA

Josiah:

I’ve often wondered this myself--we must be on the same wave length--why so many good and great cartridges failed to make the grade. I can think of a few reasons and I’m sure there are more.

First, is that another cartridge came along earlier and stole the show, so to speak. When the .475 nitro came along there were already several choices within that ballistic window to choose from.

Second, is that the later cartridge duplicated the ballistics of an earlier one. If it were not for England’s ban on the .450 caliber in the Sudan and India, the world would probably have been content with the three .450s. The .465 to .476 duplicated what the .450s did and were perfectly useable in Africa and the rest of Asia after the English ban. Some made it. Some didn't.

Third, a great cartridge that people wanted was not released to the trade. So, if one wanted that caliber, they only had the choice of that maker’s rifles. The best example that comes to mind is the .476 Westley Richards. Elmer Keith loved this one and with its 520 grain bullet was just a bit more ballistically than its cousins--but not enough to make one bit of difference. To the best of my knowledge, it was a Westley Richards proprietary cartridge. I have never seen of a .476 by a maker other than WR.

Last of all, the rifles may have been too expensive. A fellow who wanted a .465 Holland may have had only a .450 Army and Navy budget to work with. I guess this is certainly true today in the double rifle market--both new and used.

Today, these seemingly unpopular cartridges work just fine and are sought after by collectors because of their rarity. Rarity may drive up the price a bit but, on the other hand, may keep the price low. A friend just bought a .475 Rodda for approximately 2/3 of the value. If it was a .470 the rifle would have fetched 1/3 more. Any difference ballistically between the two? None. But today’s market favors the .470 and it was to my friend’s benefit. Also, with brass and bullets available today there is no reason to decline a purchase of a rare caliber.

Good shooting,

Cal

Why are so few doubles in use in Africa today?

2010-04-28T16:19:00.000-08:00

Dear Cal:

Why are so few doubles in use in Africa today?

Phil Adams, USA

Phil:

I love to see doubles at work in Africa and would love to see more of them. However, I doubt that will change unless the lower priced doubles from the continent become more popular. First of all is the expense of a vintage or modern English double. I know it may surprise some of us, but today’s PHs are not the highest paid professionals in the working world. The average PH‘s wage in Zimbabwe is US$150 per day and up to $225 per day if he has and maintains his own vehicle. Even by African standards and the cost of living there being low, it would take a long, long time to save up for a good double.

With the above, is the chance of theft or confiscation in Africa. Add to that is the chance of theft whilst flying between African airports and then charter flights. Now, don’t misunderstand me, I’m definitely not saying it is dangerous to fly with a double but, when you do it all the time, year in and year out, the chances of loss increase.

The value of a double, added to cost of repairs, may make it a poor choice for a working rifle in Africa where the rifle may not be treated with the tender, loving care it deserves. Gunsmiths, I mean qualified gunsmiths, are few and far between in Africa and the choice of a bolt rifle makes more sense. Also, ammunition availability is easer to come by and is less expensive with most bolt action calibers than with double rifle calibers.

Added to the above, is the fact that many PHs have a member of their African camp staff clean and care for their rifles. Some may have a staff member carry their rifles when in the bush. The average worker does not know the value of a rifle ‘with two pipes’ and may treat it a bit rough.

Last of all, is the increased magazine capacity of a bolt rifle. It may make many modern hunters feel a bit more secure knowing they have four or more cartridges in reserve. Especially when backing up a client with little or no experience.

Good shooting,

Cal

What are the sight options on double rifles?

2010-04-27T15:20:00.000-08:00

Dear Cal:

What are the sight options on double rifles?

Hugh Addams USA

Hugh:

If you are asking this question, then a double is in your future! Sights on a double can be as simple or as complex as one wants. No matter what type of sight is chosen, always remember the range limitations of a double rifle.

Your basic choices for a rear sight are: leaf, both fixed and multiple leaves, peep or aperture, and telescope. The leaf sights are traditional albeit a bit optimistic. Most rifles in the big game category had one fixed sight for 100 yards and two folding leaves for 200 and 300 yards. In all of my double rifle shooting, I have yet to use anything but the first leaf. (I once saw a Boswell [or Bonehill?] .577 bpe with leaves to 500 yards and a tangent to 1200 yards)! The advantage of the leaf sight with a wide, shallow V is that it is quick to get on target, nearly indestructible, and looks so at home on a double. A disadvantage that has risen its head several times in literature is that the folding leaves tend to pop up when not needed and cause the shot to fly high.

The peep or aperture sight, so common on the Winchester and other American lever actions and early bolt actions (such as those made by Griffin and Howe), is perhaps the quickest sight to place on target accurately. The eye naturally centers the object to be shot at in the center of the circle. The eye only needs to focus on the front bead and the target--not the bead, target, and rear sight. A major disadvantage of the peep sight on a double rifle is that has to be mounted close to the eye thereby interfering with the top lever. On hammer doubles, the sight was too close to, and between, the hammers and interfered with the manual cocking of the hammers. A minor complaint is that the peep can fill with dirt or other debris at the most inopportune time.

The telescope sight. Well I’m a bit torn on this one. A scope looks out of place on a double, at least for me. And, they are not needed on the larger calibers (.450 and up) used for hunting dangerous game--the shots are too close and the brush too thick. However, on smaller calibers (.450-400 and down) they are a definite help for failing or old eyes (such as the pair I own). I have a Swarvoski 1 1/4-4x on my .450-400 Harrison and Hussey boxlock ejector and took a hippo, croc, leopard and lion in Tanzania with it, a sable in Zim, numerous plains game in South Africa, and game in Alaska. The scope was not needed on the hippo but that is the rile I had in my hands. For the lion and croc it was an advantage. The leopard would not have been shot without the scope. The light was on its last and I could not see Mr. Spots until I looked through the scope. The clear picture and light gathering qualities of a good scope are a plus. On the negative side is the added weight, a scope alters the balance, the non-traditional looks, the delicate nature of the scope, and the shooter has to hold his cheek high off the stock to get a proper sight picture. Last of all, add a scope to a double and the bullet placement may change and re-regulation will be needed.

In conclusion and on a personal note, if a scope must be mounted on a double rifle, purchase a German or Austrian ‘scope. The light gathering qualities are far superior to anything else on the market and they look the best on a fine English double rifle.

Good shooting,

Cal

Why are not today’s super magnums used in modern doubles?

2010-04-26T14:21:00.000-08:00

Dear Cal:

Why are not today’s super magnums used in modern doubles (or re-chambered to older doubles)?

Gary Hopkins, PH, Zimbabwe

Gary:

It is always good to take a question from my friend and PH!

Today’s fascination is with cartridges that hit harder and go faster so it may be a surprise to many that more are not seen in double rifles of modern manufacture or re-barreled or re-chambered in vintage rifles. However, there are five problems with this. First, the mentality of the super magnum desire is to reach out and shoot one’s elk, or sheep, or antelope at 700 yards. Anything beyond 150 yards is stretching it for the double rifle due the regulation complexities. No matter how optimistic the folding sight leaves say the range may be, double rifles are not long range rifles by any means.

Second, is the muzzle blast and how it affects shooters. The higher velocity of modern magnums gave rise to the muzzle brake or porting of some sort. Neither is conducive to accuracy in a double rifle. Besides being down-right ugly (author’s opinion) and as far from traditional as one can imagine, muzzle brakes would destroy regulated accuracy. Also (and third), they are death to the ears of those in close proximity. In fact, many PHs in Africa will not allow their hunters to shoot with a brake.

Number four, is the pressure in the modern magnums are too high for most doubles. Many cartridges have a pressure of 60,000 psi whereas some of the larger nitro cartridges are half that or less. Remember the British used the larger cartridges to achieve lower chamber pressure in the heat of Africa and India (cordite was very hear sensitive). The double rifle action is far weaker than a bolt rifle and high pressures caused difficulty in opening the action after discharge.

With the above, and last on the list, is extraction difficulties. High pressure makes extraction more difficult and ejectors can tear through the thin rim if the cartridges sticks in the chambers. And, today’s magnums are of a rimless design and rimmed cartridges work best in double rifles.

I guess I should add another. The forte’ of a double rifle is dangerous game hunting. Most high velocity magnums are for long range shooting and use light weight bullets. 500, 570, 750, and 900-grain bullets are for close up work and not for shooting across a canyon in the southwestern USA. A double is for quick, snap shots at critters that can hit back and, no matter what Roy and others say, I would rather have a 500-grain bullet at 2150 fps (or 900 grains at 1950!) rather than a 180 grain bullet at 3600 fps. ‘Nuff said!

Good shooting,

Cal

Introduction to Double Rifles- Recommended Reading

2010-04-24T13:22:00.000-08:00

Dear Cal:

Gerry Whitehead, Zimbabwe

Gerry:

As far as magazines go, the Double Gun Journal now includes single shots so coverage is limited to perhaps one article on double rifles per issue. The African Hunter is the only African journal that publishes a regular column on double rifles. And, where do double rifles really belong? In a magazine about Africa, from Africa! The generic hunting magazines from the States have the occasional article to keep a few readers happy but not on a regular basis. (Personally, I have little interest in reading opinions that are not backed up be personal experience. If you are going to write about a .600 or an 8-bore, own one and shoot it. Often!).

As to books, The Hammerless Double Rifle by Alexander Gray is an excellent source to see how a double is put together. Graeme Wright’s, Shooting the British Double Rifle is the best book for learning how to shoot a double rifle successfully. It is the ‘Bible’ on the subject.(In my opinion, it is a waste to have a nice double in the safe and do nothing with it. Shooting it is the next step and then hunting with one is the zenith of ownership). Craig Boddington’s Safari Rifles provides an excellent look at caliber and rifle selection and is a modern update to John Taylor’s African Rifles and Cartridges. Taylor’s book is the best of the vintage texts on the subject and Taylor is quoted more than any other writer.

Most hunting books are stories of the hunt as most hunters don’t seem to be riflemen. James Sutherland is an exception and his book The Adventures of an Elephant Hunter is an excellent story of his exploits with a .577 Westley Richards. S.R. Truesdale's The Rifle is a composite of hunters before WWII and what were their rifle choices. Lots of good double info here. Greener's The Rifle and its Development is the best technical book on the subject with lots of double rifle info in it.

I hope this helps, good shooting,

Cal

Which double rifles are more desirable?

2010-04-22T11:25:00.000-08:00

Dear Cal:

What makes a double rifle famous or desirable over others, thereby increasing its value?

D. Karjala, USA

Dear D.

I can think of three things that increase a vintage rifle’s value: a famous owner, a letter of origin that substantiates the original specifications, and a documented history of use.

From personal experience, a few examples. I once owned a hammer under lever light nitro rifle in the rare caliber 20-.577. This, an invention of Alexander Henry, was the 20 gauge brass shot shell 2 3/4 inches long and necked down to accept a .577 bullet. My rifle was originally made by John Dickson as a 12 bore rifle in the 1860s. In 1900 it was re-barreled by Alex Henry and purchased by Malcolm McNeill. McNeill had a career in the army and was the recipient of numerous awards. He was also a noted big game hunter, had a museum in his home town of Oban, Scotland, for his trophies, and wrote of his hunting adventures in Somaliland in 1902. He killed a pair of man-eating lions with the .20-.577. He was one of the fifty + sportsmen who chipped in some pounds sterling and donated the .500-450 Holland and Holland to Teddy Roosevelt and is mentioned in TR’s African Game Trails. There you have it--an original owner of notoriety. (Did I write I ONCE owned it? Damn!)

If your double rifle was made by a current maker, it is most likely you can get a letter of origin. The letter will state the serial number, stock dimensions, barrel length, weight, sight specifications, extractor or ejector, caliber, and cordite regulation. It may also give the name and address of the original owner. This letter will tell you if the rile of your dreams is to original specifications or if it has been altered in any way. Some records are not available due to the destruction during WWII bombing or perhaps the company is out of business.

With luck, you may be able to trace the life of the rifle if you know the original owner or, at least, an owner of the rifle’s early years. My .450 no2 was owned by an army officer who left the military to farm in Kenya. He became a professional hunter with White Hunters Africa. Between the letter of origin from Joseph Lang and his biography from the Scottish Military Museum I am able to trace the rifle from its making in 1904 to when it left Kenya in the 1950s to be returned to the factory for repairs and alterations.

A friend owned a .577 single trigger Westley Richards drop lock double rifle. At my suggestion he wrote for a letter and discovered his rifle was owned by Andy Anderson, an elephant hunter of some fame and a friend of James Sutherland. His hunting exploits are documented in his book and he is also mentioned in Sutherland’s work.

The above adds a romance to owning a fine double rifle--a romance that a new rifle can’t have.

Good shooting,

Cal

Can I (we) see some of the double rifles you write about, please?

2010-04-21T11:00:00.000-08:00

Dear Cal:

Can I (we) see some of the double rifles you write about, please?

Ron Williams, USA

Ron:

At present I own only five. I have sold my .450, .500, and a 20-.577 and, of course, all my single barrel weapons. My rifles now are a .450-400 Harrison and Hussey boxlock ejector, with 26 inch barrels, and a Swarovski 1 1/4-4x scope to assist my ailing eyes. This is my primary hunting rifle and has taken lion, leopard, hippo, croc, sable, many plains game, buffalo in Australia, and caribou here in Alaska.

My other hunting rifle is a best quality Joseph Lang .450 no2. Originally it was a 28-inch barreled, ejector, three leaf rear sight, with an automatic safety. Fully engraved with a cheek piece and exceptional wood, it is a beauty! In 1956 the rifle was returned to the maker for repairs and alterations. When I purchased the rifle, the rear sight was a single leaf, the safety was manual, and the ejectors were changed to extractors (a preference of many PHs).

My .600 is a John Wilkes best quality, 26 inch barrels, extractor, three leaf rear sight and a bead with flip up ‘moon’ front sight. The regulation is for the heavy 110 grain charge of cordite. Recoil is a bit stiff even at 15 1/3 pounds.

My two bore rifles are a rather plain Walter Locke 7-bore with 24 inch barrels, weight of 17 pounds and is a hammer, under lever. The other is an Alex Henry 8-bore, best quality with 23 inch barrels and weighs 15 1/2 pounds. It, too, is a hammer under lever rifle. The rear sight is set back to the breech as specified by the original owner in 1883.

All of my rifles are cased with accessories and I shoot them several times per week in the shooting season at my home in Alaska--April thru September. I hunt with the three boxlocks each season at home and also in Africa each year. They are great fun!

Enjoy the photos and good shooting!

Cal

Single vs. Double Trigger

2010-04-20T09:56:00.000-08:00

Hello all. Here are some additional questions from readers and my answers. I hope they help. These have been or will be published in the African Hunter magazine.
Cal

Dear Cal:
What is your side of the single vs. double trigger argument?
Harold ‘Nick” Nickles, USA

Nick:
I would imagine this question goes as far back as the first rifle or shotgun with twin tubes. There is probably no right or wrong answer but John Taylor had it right in the end when he suggested all your rifles be of the same style. An excellent suggestion from Taylor’s era and the mindset of a professional hunter. Sound wisdom today also but, perhaps, not such a necessity as few of us will ever be in a life or death situation.

The thought behind a single trigger is, of course, a quicker second shot. Double rifles are quick for the second shot and even more quick if one does not have to adjust the trigger finger. How much time is saved? A fraction of a second at most. To some, single triggers look nice and they are a higher refinement of the double rifle’s mechanism. James Sutherland, who hunted with a pair of Westley Richards' single trigger .577s wrote that the mechanism never failed to shoot the second barrel--they were perfectly reliable. A friend in Alaska just sold Andy Anderson’s single trigger Westley and agrees with Sutherland--never a problem.

In the vintage years when hunters in the Dark Continent were literally months away from a gunsmith, having two triggers, and thereby two separate rifles, could be a life saver if one trigger or lock failed to operate. If one failed, the hunter still had a single shot rifle. Not so with a single trigger. A failure and the entire rifle is negated to a boat anchor.

Today, we don’t hunt for ivory to make a living and our lives are not in jeopardy on our African hunt. With this, most rifles are in collections and used only occasionally. Having a combination of double and single trigger rifles will make for a complete collection. As for me personally, I prefer the double trigger as it looks more traditional but, given the right rifle, the right caliber, at the right price, a single trigger would be welcome in my gun safe at any time!

Good shooting,

Cal

V-C .600 Nitro

2010-04-17T06:35:00.000-08:00

Dear Cal:

It was a pleasure talking with you at D.S.C. and I have very much enjoyed your book.

I am considering ordering a bespoke V-C in .600 Nitro.

I own a V-C .577 with 25 5/8" barrels weighing 14# 2oz. which is to my liking. I have on order a bespoke V-C .500 with 25 5/8" barrels to weigh between 11.5# to 12#.

Question is this, for a .600 would you order 23 5/8" or 25 5/8" barrels and what weight would you want?

Thanks in advance

Don S. USA

Don

Good to hear from you. I know you will enjoy the Verney-Caron doubles very much. I have seen them and spoke with the owner of the company on several occasions and am impressed with their work. The locking mechanism looks like it will never shoot loose.

For your questions to me I would order the following: 23” barrels as they are quicker to bring to aim in such a heavy rifle and makes them easier to carry. Weight is a matter of what you will do with the rifle. If you carry it all day on a tracking elephant or buffalo hunt I would have the weight at 14 pounds. It will kick more but you won’t notice it when shooting at game. On the other hand, if you are going to shoot it at the range a lot and have an easy go at it hunting (such as hippo) I would recommend you push the weight up to 16 pounds but no more.

Good shooting,

Cal

An Inexpensive Double Rifle?

2010-04-15T06:00:00.000-08:00

Dear Cal:

Where can I find low-priced double rifles? Not like 20,000 bucks--more like under a $1,000 possibly.

James A. USA

James:

Not in this world would be my immediate reply. Maybe if a time machine could take you back to the early 1960s...

Seriously, the only double made today for the kind of money you write of is a Baikal which (I believe) are imported my Remington from Russia. I shot one a few weeks ago (March 2010) during an Alaska double rifle shoot outside of Eagle River. The rifle was not attractive to look at, the trigger pull was 15 pounds, but it was the most accurate rifle at the shoot! It is not a lie to say it was grouping at 2 inches at 50 yards and I have heard this from others via email. I have seen prices for these rifles between $700 and 1200 USD.

This is the only double made today in your price range. The caliber I shot was .30-06 and don’t know what other calibers are produced. A Pedersoli .45-70 or 9.3x74r is an excellent low-priced double but they are about $3500. They, too, shoot very well.

As to the price of doubles in 2010 in a nutshell:

Vintage English doubles in .450-400 are hitting the 15-20K mark and higher for best rifles.

The same in .450 to .500 are in the 20-30,000 and higher range.

The same in .577 are bringing 35-50,000.

The same in .600 are bringing 50-65,000 and up.

American doubles of new manufacture are about what the above prices are.

European rifles of a new manufacture are about 1/2 of the above prices for the calibers.

New English rifles are 3-4x what the above prices are.

One solution is to have a double built on a shotgun action. Butch Searcy did this in his early years and they worked fine if pressure was kept to reasonable levels. I bet the prices will be a fraction of the above although I have not looked into this as it is not in an area of interest of mine.

I hope this helps and good shooting,

Cal

How far do double rifles go back in history?

2010-04-13T00:24:00.000-08:00

Dear Cal:

How far do double rifles go back in history?

Ed Dyer, USA

Ed:

This will be a quick answer as most of the history of the double rifle is beyond me. I mentioned to Editor Heath I would share all of the questions and answers with him. I hope he does not fire me when he sees how little I know about this topic! That said, a close friend here in Alaska has a marvelous collection of double rifles including several flintlock doubles. Then, of course, was the natural progression to caplock or percussion.

I do know that in order to double the firepower in the muzzle-stuffing days that a second barrel was the only way to go. I do not know if the twin tube design went as far back as the wheel lock and the match lock. I have seen only side-by-side double rifles in flint lock and cap lock. I do not know if an over and under doubles were produced in this early period. (I just learned of a percussion double in .600 by Greener!)

Good shooting,

Cal

600 Nitro Express rifles in my new book.

2010-04-11T20:39:00.000-08:00

Good day all. Many of your have purchased my book on the .600 double rifles and every comment on the book has been positive. To interest the rest of you with the hope you will buy the book on this the largest and most rare of the elephant hunting cartridges, here are the descriptions of most of the vintage rifles in the book. The paragraphs are above each set of high quality photos of these fine rifles. There is a lot more to the book and you can see a few pictures of the rifles on the double rifles page of my website as well as some information on the book's contents from the navigation bar on the left of the home page. So, for now, enjoy the descriptions of the world finest rifles: the mighty .600 NITRO EXPRESS!

Army and Navy
The first Army and Navy .600 is courtesy of George Hoyem and is pictured in his book, The History and Development of Small Arms Ammunition, volume three, British Sporting Rifle Cartridges. No serial number is available for this rifle that was made by J. & W. Tolley. (In 1911 Tolley was purchased by Holloway & Naughton). The rifle sports a three leaf express rear sight, Jones under lever, exposed hammers, and 24-inch barrels. The weight is a heavy 18 pounds and four ounces! A doll’s head is present as are sling eyes. This .600 is a plain finished rifle, sold as a stock item, for moderate cost.

The next Army and Navy, number 46,940, dates to 1906 and weighs 15 pounds and 8 ounces. The stock has a pull of 14 1/4 inches to a Silvers pad, no cheek piece, and is equipped with sling swivels. The barrels are chopper-lump, 26 inches long with a full rib that supports a three leaf rear sight. The front sight is hooded. This Army and Navy .600 is proofed for the 100-grain charge of cordite and is in near mint condition--inside and out--and rests in its original case. From the collection of Lester Dyke. Photo credit: Corbin B. Shell (top photo) and Lewis Drake and Associates.

E.J. Churchill
I have only one Churchill to share with you. Number 2696 is a hammerless double rifle proofed for the 110-grain charge of cordite and the 900-grain bullet. It is a non-ejector, double trigger, boxlock with border engraving--a workingman's rifle. The walnut stock has a 15-inch pull and is sans cheek piece. The pistol grip cap is engraved but has no trap and the recoil pad is the original. The barrels are 26 inches long with a quarter rib and doll's head extension. The rear sight has one standing and two folding leaves and the front sight has a protective hood. The safety is non-automatic with SAFE inlayed in gold. There is a sling eye on the barrel but, interestingly, none on the stock and the weight is 13 1/2 pounds. The action's colors are faded completely due to age and use but the barrel blue is excellent. The stock sports a refinish and the bores are excellent. From the collection of Don Wenger. Photo credit: Bob Huber

William Evans
Evans number 9891 is a boxlock non-ejector with 26-inch barrels and weighs a hefty 16 pounds and 4 ounces. This .600 was sold to Captain, The Hon. J.R.D. Prittie in 1910. Prittie was the Assistant Commissioner of the Uganda Boundary Commission from 1910 to 1914 and was killed in action on December 29, 1914. A former owner purchased this rifle in Uganda in 1967. Additional specifications are a regulation of 100 grains of cordite, an automatic safety, a full-length rib with doll's head extension and a disappearing moon sight. From the collection of Hollis Perkins.

W.W. Greener
Graham Greener looked up the details about the gun in the archives; it was recorded as being a Presentation grade .600 Express, double rifle with 22 inch barrels. One pair of barrels was constructed with the normal dovetail lumps but, unusually, the other pair was made with chopper lumps. The gun had been ordered by Marius Maxwell, a big game photographer, who had written several books which included many photographs, taken by himself, of big game in Africa. Work on the gun started on the 28th of October 1920 and the weapon was finished on the 24th August 1921. However, Marius had ordered the second pair of barrels a few weeks after his initial request for Greener to build him a gun. The extra barrels were started on the 9th of November 1920 but this delayed completion to 17th May 1922. The 14 3/8 inch stock had a full pistol hand and cheek piece. Like the engraving on the famous St. George shotgun Harry Tomlinson was engaged to produce similar carved engraving of elephants and big game. He took six weeks to engrave the gun with the first pair of barrels and a further week to engrave the second set of barrels. The gun was designed to fire a load of 100 grains cordite with a 900 grains bullet.

Holland and Holland
To see a side lock Holland and Holland is a sight to behold and to see two of them left me speechless! But, before the pair from the Wenger collection (followed by two additional), Russell Wilkin of Holland and Holland emailed me some information on the first .600 by that firm. Number 19285 from 1909 was built with 26-inch barrels and an exposed hammer rifle with ejectors. Quite a rarity.

The first Holland before you is a postwar rifle, number 35290. Built as a Royal Deluxe with 25-inch barrels with a standing sight leaf for 50 yards and a folding leaf sighted for 100. The front sight is a large platinum-tipped bead with a fold over ivory night, or moon, sight. The back action side lock has two triggers with the front trigger being hinged, and has automatic ejectors. The walnut stock is finished to a pull of 15 1/2 inches to a pigskin-covered recoil pad. The stock sports a cheek piece. Each individual internal part of the action is plated in gold and the external action has full coverage of the traditional Royal Deluxe engraving pattern. The rifle rests in its original case with all accessories. According to a letter from the current owner, this is the fourth .600 made by Holland and the frame is larger than the frames used on numbers five and six. From the collection of Don Wenger. Photo credit: Bob Huber.

The second .600 Holland shown here is perhaps one of the most famous and well- known rifles of all time and Holland considers it to be their finest rifle. Number 35478 was begun in 1970 and completed in 1975. This was to be Holland and Holland's last rifle in .600: to signify the end of the era of elephant hunting. With Kynoch ending the production of many of the nitro express cartridges this, too, seemed to be the end of the big double rifles. This magnificent rifle was offered to Joe Wenger who was a friend and customer of Holland and Holland. His son, Don, went in 50-50 with his father so, “I would be sure to have this rifle someday in my collection.” (Many years later, Holland and Holland reached an agreement with Don to again begin production of the .600 caliber).

The “Last .600” is a back action sidelock with two triggers. The front trigger is hinged. The barrels are 24 inches long with a 50 yard back sight and a platinum-tipped bead front sight with a fold over protective hood and a 1/4 carat diamond moon sight. The rifle weighs only 12 1/2 pounds with a 15 1/2 inch stock of the finest walnut with a cheek piece and a pigskin covered recoil pad. The rifle is fully engraved by Ken Hunt in the most elaborate array of design and figures. The case is oak and elephant hide and all accessories have ivory handles. Extras in the case include a spare fore sight, back sight, lock pins, main springs and ejector springs. A matching cartridge magazine holds 100 rounds of Kynoch ammunition. The rifle remains unfired to this day and is in 100 percent mint condition. Photo credit: Bob Huber.

This Holland and Holland, number 30374, is courtesy of Holt’s Auctioneers and sold by them in December 2008. Their description is as follows, “26in. nitro chopperlump barrels with matt sight rib, open sights and leaf sights for 100, 150 and 200 yards, ramp-mounted bead foresight with flip-up moonsight, the moonsight a gold-encased diamond, the sunken rib gold-inlaid 'H.H. MAHARAJA GULAB SINGH JI. BAHADUR OF REWA. 1921.', giant treble-grip action with removable striker discs, carved shell fences, automatic safety with gold-inlaid 'SAFE' detail, Holland & Holland patent hand-detachable lockplates, patent no. 11319 of 25th May, 1908, gold-inlaid cocking-indicators, chequered articulated front trigger, the action, lockplates and furniture deeply carved with best bold Royal scroll engraving, interspersed with floral bouquets and with beaded and feathered borders, the underside engraved 'ROYAL HAMMERLESS EJECTOR' within an elaborate ribbon cartouche, retaining traces of original colour-hardening and finish, 15 1/8in. highly-figured pistol grip stock with cheekpiece, engraved and colour-hardened pistol grip-cap (with trap), sling swivels and including 7/8in. leather covered recoil pad, weight 16lb. 2oz., in its brass-cornered oak and leather case with accessories, the lid exterior with 'H.H. MAHARAJA of REWA' , '600 H&H.', 'No. 30374'. and with some Hindu script. The makers have kindly confirmed that the rifle was completed in 1921 for the Maharaja of Rewa.” Credit: Andrew J. Orr of Holt’s Auctioneers. (For additional information on the Maharaja, see Jeffery number 22370).

This last Holland and Holland, 35144, is a 1948 vintage royal ejector with 26-inch barrels and a weight of 16 pounds. The lock work is gold plated and she is proofed for 110 grains of cordite. This Holland has hunted in the Central African Republic and Zambia where she has taken buffalo and elephant. Formerly in the collection of Leroy Fortner.

W.J. Jeffery

This rifle, and number 22152, were made as a pair. As taken from the Jeffery records for 22152: .600 bore under snap action hammerless A&D, Baker ejector, 24” Gusstahl barrels, doll’s head, standard + 3 spring leafs backsight to 300 yards, ivory bead foresight, Anson forepart, scroll engraved, pistol grip, 14 1/4 pounds. Made by Leonard, September 21, 1911. Cost price was 27 pounds 15. Selling price was 50-60 pounds. The next number, 22153, as taken from the Jeffery records: .600 bore double to pair with above, recoil pads and trigger set for left shoulder in both cases, scroll engraved, 14 1/4 pounds. Made by Leonard, September 21, 1911. Cost price was 27 pounds 15. Selling price was 50-60 pounds. Formerly in the collection of Leroy Fortner.

This beauty is the fourth Jeffery produced and is in near mint condition. As taken from the Jeffery records: .600 bore under lever snap action hammerless double Baker ejector rifle. 24 3/4" Krupp steel barrels, standing and 3 leaf to 300 yards, bead foresight, lever forepart, pistol grip, recoil pad, highly scroll engraved, 15 pounds 10 ounces. Made by Saunders--June 6, 2003. Cost price was 28 pounds + 3.15 for the tubes and sold for 65 pounds. In addition, the Urdu script on the rifle tells us of its Indian history. From the collection of Lester Dyke. Photo credit: Morris Hallowell.

As taken from the Jeffery records: .600 cordite under lever snap action, Baker ejector, A&D action, 24” Krupp steel barrels, doll’s head, sunk rib, stand and 3 leaves, lever forepart, pistol grip, engraved with animals. 14 pounds 3 ounces. Made by Leonard, April 30, 1904. Cost price was 28 pounds + 3.15 for the tubes and sold for 35 pounds. Additional details are: 100 grains of cordite for the regulation, JW engraved on the gold stock oval, automatic ejectors recoil pad, double trigger, eyes for sling, one standing and three folding sight leaves. Three elephants, a tiger, lion, buffalo, bushbuck, another elephant are engraved on the action and a leopard and scroll on the lever. This rifle was in Kenya where it was restocked and sent to London for finishing and for sale to Joe Wenger in 1967. From the collection of Don Wenger. Photo Credit: Bob Huber.

13933. As taken from the Jeffery records: .600 bore double under lever snap action. E.L. rib, 24” Krupp barrels, stand and 3 leaves to 300 yards, ivory bead, pistol grip, bison engraved, lever forepart, doll’s head, eyes for sling. 14 pounds. Made by Leonard July 5, 1905. Cost price was 22 pounds + 2 pounds for the tubes and sold for 35 pounds. this rifle has been shot extensively by the present and former owners an both attest to the impressive accuracy out to 200 yards. From the collection of Corbin B. Shell.

As taken from the Jeffery records: .600 bore under snap action A&D hammerless, doll’s head, 24” Gusstahl barrels, standard 50 and 3 leafs 300, ivory foresight, Anson forepart, 1/2 pistol grip, scroll engraved, recoil pad, weight 14lbs 5oz. made by Leonard. Cost price was 23 pounds 15 + 2 pounds 5 for the barrels for a total cost of 16 pounds. Selling price was 35 pounds. Additional details are: 100 grains of cordite for the regulation, non-ejector, concave matted rib, marked “Made expressly for Lyon & Lyon Calcutta.” This rifle was sold at auction in September of 2007. Photo credit: Rock Island Auction Company.

22370. The first of three consecutive numbered .600 doubles. This rifle was sold to Lyon and Lyon for the Maharaja or Rewa (of .577 Rewa fame) and so engraved on the rib in gold. As taken from the Jeffery records: .600 bore hammerless non-ejector A&D under snap action. 24" Gusstahl barrels, doll's head, standard and 3 leaves to 500 yards, ivory bead foresight, pistol grip, Anson forepart, recoil pad, scroll engraved. 14 1/4 pounds. Made by H. Leonard July 31, 1913. Cost price 25.1 pounds and sold for 35 pounds. This rifle is cased in the original oak and leather case with accessories. The ledger states “scroll engraved” but does not do justice to the outstanding engraving. The quality of the wood is outstanding. From the collection of Davis Peterson, MD.

Two Maharajas of Rewa were known to the English gun trade. Raja Venkat Raman Singh (B. 18--) ruled from 1880 to 1918. His province was 13,000 square miles and the second largest in central India. The tiger population in the jungles was extremely high and hunting with the finest English firearms was his pastime. His son, Maharaja Sir Gulab Singh (owner of this rifle) was known to have killed 500 plus tigers--some of which in a most unusual manner. He would sit in a tree stand with a book and a monkey. Whilst reading, if a tiger came to bait, the monkey would stir and the Maharaja would take up his rifle. His province was acceded to the dominion of India in 1947.

One of six consecutive numbered falling block single shot rifles. As taken from the Jeffery records: .600 bore falling block, 26" steel barrel, 3 flush leaf backsight to 300 yards, platinum bead foresight, short forepart, pistol grip, eyes for sling. Made by H. Leonard March 29, 1916. Cost price was 7.18 pounds + 5 pounds for the barrel and sold for 25 pounds. From the collection of Hank Wilson.

Charles Lancaster
No question about it, this .600 is the most unique, rare, and one of a kind .600 ever made. Lancaster number 13870 has a 33 inch octagon barrel with Lancaster's patented oval bore rifling. It is a side lock under lever hammerless single shot and, I believe, was built on a 4 bore frame. The rifle's weight of 21 pounds and 12 ounces bears this out. The cordite regulation is for the 110-grain charge and the velocity is 2100 fps due to the long barrel. The rifle's weight, however, soaks up much of the recoil and is quite pleasant to shoot--explaining the plain metal butt plate. The walnut stock may not be original to the rifle but has a beautiful figure and a cheek piece. Also unique to this .600 is the double set trigger.

Joseph Lang
Joseph Lang is one of my favorite makers as my .450 No2 best quality is a Lang. This .600 is numbered 14843 and is a pre-WWI rifle. It has 26 inch barrels and is proofed for the 110-grain charge of cordite. The action is French gray and the engraving may be a latter addition as it looks of a modern European style. The walnut stock has a cheek piece, a silver oval, pistol grip, and a red recoil pad. The action has double triggers and automatic ejectors. The full-length rib has a doll's head extension and the rear sight is a standing leaf with one folding leaf for 200 yards. The front sight has the fold-down, large moon sight bead. The weight of this Lang is a hefty 16 3/4 pounds so she is comfortable to shoot. The safety is automatic, sling eyes are present, and the rifle is in its original case with accessories including spare sights, spare ejectors, and strikers. From the collection of Don Wenger. Photo credit: Bob Huber.

MacNaughton
The .600 MacNaughton is a unique rifle times four! It is the only vintage .600 I have found from Scotland. Secondly, this 1904 Edinburgh rifle was made with, perhaps, a one of a kind ribless design. The space between the quarter rib and the front sight is open--no rib! This may have been done to facilitate barrel cooling. Number 2726 sports barrels 27 inches in length and the action is a rare round action (number 3 in rarity) with partial scroll engraving. Further features are a double trigger, pistol grip stock, and the pull is 14 3/8" to a leather pad. This rifle has two safety catches and weighs 13 pounds and 13 ounces The rear sight is a single standing leaf and the elevation adjustment is done via the front sight (number 4 in rarity)! Of additional interest is this rifle took an elephant in Ethiopia in 1989 when owned by Bill Feldstein (originator of the .700 nitro express). The tusks weighed 100 and 104 pounds! Photo credit: Bonhams and Butterfield.

Charles Osborne
Osborne number 60846 may be the only .600 by this maker. This rifle was discovered in South Africa and made its way to the United States where it changed hands a number of times. The rifle's light weight was the reason, I'm sure. At 13 pounds and 2 ounces it is quite a kicker for the 100-grain charge of cordite it is proofed for. Being a top lever with exposed hammers it is indeed a rare gem. A former owner told me that he took a 48 inch cape buffalo with this rifle! Originally made with 28-inch barrels they were shortened to 24 inches by a second prior owner and some engraving has been added. The rifle rests in its original case with some accessories. The rifle dates to 1911 and a former owner has a .470 Osborne that is identical to this .600. Photo credit: David Powell.

James Purdey
What a treat for the senses! A consecutive pair of .600s, made as a pair and numbered 1 and 2. Purdey 25749 and 25750 are at home in their original oak and leather trunk case by Purdey as are all the accessories and tools.

Both rifles feature 26-inch barrels and regulated for the 100-grain charge of cordite. The actions are highly scroll engraved side locks of the finest London quality. The pistol grips have an engraved grip cap and the stocks sport thin recoil pads. The actions are self opening, double trigger design, with automatic ejectors. A short rib supports a two-leaf rear sight and the front sight has a sight protector. The automatic safety also has a bolted safety with all lettering in gold. Both rifles weigh 15 1/4 pounds and have 'D' sling swivels. The top strap extends to the comb of the stock.

This Purdey is number 24705. Completed in May of 1934 for the Bombay Armoury, this fine double rifle has automatic ejectors, a self opening action, 26-inch barrels, and weighs 15 pounds and 10 ounces.

R.B. Rodda
Of the rifles I have seen, handled, and shot whilst developing this work this Rodda stands as among the finest rifles--equal to the last Holland and Holland and the Greener owned by the photographer M. Maxwell. This outstanding sidelock, number 11456, has 26-inch barrels and weighs 13 pounds, 14 ounces. Equipped with ejectors and sighted to 500 yards, she is regulated for the 110-grain charge of cordite

St. Entienne, France
The 1909-vintage .600 double from France, number 18432, is only one of three rifles in .600 produced in this center of firearms manufacturing. As in Ferlach, Austria, St. Entienne had many specialists who made the barrels, stocks, locks, etc., therefore no maker’s name is on this rifle. It is a “guild” rifle. While the English (usually) kept detailed records, not so with the French--almost no original information on this rifle exists. The current owner states this rifle has chopper-lump barrels 27 3/4 inches in length. The weight is a light 13 pounds even and the hammers are non-rebounding. The top strap continues over the comb and the bottom strap continues beyond the grip--a most unusual feature. The front trigger is articulated and the four sight leaves are sighted to 50-100-200-300 yards. The original Silvers recoil pad has been replaced and that is the only modification to this fantastic rifle. From the collection of Robert Donalson.

Webley and Scott
Webley and Scott number 11307 is a double barrel hammer rifle, Jones under lever, and sighted to 300 yards with one standing and two folding leaves. Rebounding back locks, percussion fences, border engraving, sling swivels, and a matted sight rib are features of this outstanding rifle. The action is a treble-grip with chopper lump-barrels, 26 inches in length. The front sight is a bead with a folding moon sight. This rifle was owned and used in Ceylon and remained there until sold at auction. The weight is 16 pounds and 1 ounce. Photo Credit: Christies Auctioneers.

Westley Richards
The first three Westley Richards rifles shown here cover a full spectrum of .600s: a a plain-grade boxlock, a single shot of the finest quality, and a best quality boxlock. After seeing the quality of the Westley Richards’ best rifles, I believe that firm takes second place to no other company. Their rifles are works of art. In addition are two consecutive numbered single shots courtesy of Wal Winfer.

Number D8656 is a workingman's double rifle regulated for 100 grains of cordite. She is equipped with double triggers, automatic ejectors, 26-inch barrels and a full rib with a doll's head extension. The top lever is the Westley C-type, the action has no engraving, and the weight is an even 16 pounds. The bottom of the action is engraved with “P. ORR & SONS. Premier Gunsmiths, Rangoon” so we know she spent some of her years in India. The safety is automatic with a bolting lever and the sights are one standing and two folding leaves to 300 yards. This .600 has sling swivels and a rubber anti-recoil pad. The mechanical condition is excellent. From the collection of Don Wenger. Photo credit: Bob Huber.

This next Westley is a deluxe single shot sighted to an optimistic 700 yards! 36026 is regulated for the one-of-a-kind charge of 105 grains of cordite. The action is fully engraved with scroll and game scenes, has a tang safety and is an ejector rifle. The barrel is 25 inches long and the weight is an even 13 pounds. A recoil pad is present as is a cheek piece and sling swivels. Weight has been added to the stock to reduce the felt recoil and the greater than normal drop to the stock makes the shooter feel the bite upon discharge. This rifle was once owned by Mr. Hale of Parker-Hale and is now in the collection of Don Wenger. Photo credit: Bob Huber.

The third Westley Richards, number 17354, dates from 1912. This .600 is as deluxe as a rifle can get! Proofed for 100 grains of cordite, this double trigger automatic ejector rifle has barrels 26 inches long and a doll's head extension. The engraving is a combination of scroll and game scenes including an elephant and rhino. One standing and two folding leaves comprise the rear sight and the front sight rests on an engraved ramp and includes a folding moon sight. A recoil pad, engraved and hinged grip cap, cheek piece, sling swivels, bolted and automatic safety are additional features. The gold oval has “HB” engraved. This magnificent rifle rests in its original oak and leather case with the name Colonel H. G. Burrows on the lid. The condition is excellent, inside and out, and all original. A true gem! From the collection of Don Wenger. Photo credit: Bob Huber.

John Wilkes

Wilkes 5466 is a very light .600 at 12 1/2 pounds with 24 inch barrels. The frame size suggests this light weight .600 was made on a .500 frame. She is regulated for the 110 grains of cordite and is a non-ejector. The action engraving is nearly the same as number 8083, English scroll with an Indian elephant among the tall grass on left and a gaur on the right. The action also has side clips. The stock has a pull of 14 1/2 inches to a red rubber recoil pad. There is no cheek piece. The rib sports the traditional standing leaf for 100 yards and two folding leaves for 200 and 300 yards. This rifle, made in 1910, has sling eyes, an automatic safety, with SAFE inlaid in gold. The bores are excellent. The Wilkes company told the present owner, during a 1985 visit to London, that number 5467 was in Spain or Italy, weighed 11 pounds and 15 ounces, and was in “mint” condition. The company was trying to purchase the rifle. London proof. From the collection of Don Wenger. Photo credit: Bob Huber.

Number 8083, is much the same as number 5466 as to sights, engraving style (elephant and Indian rhino), side clips, stock dimensions, and rear sight. The barrels are 26 inches, the front sight has a folding large bead night sight and SAFE is inlaid in silver. This rifle was made in April of 1914 and is an extractor rifle, has the doll's head extension, recoil pad, and a push button fore end release. The weight is 15 1/2 pounds--a good weight for a .600. London proof. From the collection of the author, Cal Pappas.

Wilkinson
A rare .600 from an excellent maker! This Wilkinson, number 55086, was owned by a collector in Texas who purchased it in 1966 in South Africa. The gun's then owner also had a .577 Holland and Holland Royal he was selling. He needed the money to pay for a large ammunition purchase he was making and, in 1966, there was little interest in the big rifles due to problems in obtaining the correct ammunition. This rifle is proofed for the 100-grain charge of cordite, has a three-leaf rear sight for 100, 200, and 300 yards, and 26-inch barrels. The stock sports a cheek piece and a recoil pad. The weight is approximately 13 pounds.

Dry Fire

2010-04-09T13:04:00.000-08:00

Dear Cal:

A quick question. Is it ok to fire the pins on spent cartridges if I was to dry fire?

Andrew B. Zambia

Andrew:

I would certainly say, “no.” A spent primer already has the striker indent so there would be nothing for the striker to land on. If you don’t have any snap caps I would suggest taking a fired cartridge, removing the spent primer, and filling the pocket with very hard rubber, plastic, or even an epoxy that dries quite hard. This will give the primers some purchase to protect the striker if the hammer falls.

Good shooting,

Cal

.450 Watts built on a Mauser M98 action

2010-04-09T07:48:00.000-08:00

Dear Cal:

I've been offered a .450 Watts built on a Mauser M98 action. As a hunter in Zimbabwe, hunting a fair number of elephant and currently using a .404 Jeffery, I am very interested. There seems to be confusion as to exact dimensions of the case. Should I rechamber to .450 Ackley? Comments/advice please.

Mark J., Zimbabwe

Mark:
The .450 Watts has a place in my heart due to my friendship with James Watts and the subsequent book on his life I wrote. James was the first to blow out the .375 H&H case to a straight dimension to hold a .458-inch bullet. The length of the case is 2.850”. 22 years after James developed this round (in 1949) Jack Lott shaved .050” off the case to place his name on it. He gets the credit as he was a well-known writer and hunter and James was not so well-known; as well as a very quiet and unassuming man. The .450 Ackley is the Watts case with less taper and a very slight shoulder. You will get small increase in case capacity but no buffalo will ever know the difference. The advantage of the Watts is that you can fire the Lott round in it as well as the shorter .458 Wincherster (which is also a Watts invention--he called it the .450 Watts Short and released it to Winchester in the mid-1950s). Dies and brass are readily available but not so with the Ackley version. Getting the Ackley round in the states is a bit of a hassle but I would guess a major headache in Zimbabwe. Go with the Watts and let me know how it works for you.

Good shooting,
Cal

Springer .450 Long

2010-04-08T11:50:00.000-08:00

Cal:

Thanks ever so much for your time. The rifle I am interested in is a Springer, and listed as a .450 Long, the German version of the .450 X 3 1/4 BPE. I have the same caliber in a Springer drilling and as an avid rifle person have been interested in an African hunt using a fine quality vintage firearm. I was fortunate to locate a Springer drilling and now have made a deal on the Springer .450 double. I wish to hunt thin-skinned game such as leopard and plains game. Now that I have the arms I need guidance on a load for the .450. From the ground up so to speak. Brass, bullets, powder, dies, ballistic charts or formulas, etc. Once I get the rifle in hand I will inform you of the markings on the rifle and I will note you immediately for your opinion.

Once again thanks for your time.
Russ T. USA

Russ:
From the photo you have a wondeful rifle that looks as nice as any English rifle of the same time period. Since the case is the dimensional and ballistic twin of the .450 3 1/4” bpe I will give you the data I have. Brass cases can be found at Bertram or Huntingtons. Dies can be found at Huntingtons or CH Tool as well as the shell holders. The original round was loaded with 110 grains of black powder so the smokeless powder to use and the formula for the correct velocity is this: 40% of the original load (110 grains) is 44 grains. Use IMR 4198 and the 44 grains should give the approximate nitro-for-black velocity. 350-grain bullets, either Hornady jacketed or cast lead, is the proper bullet. Use large rifle magnum primers for good ignition of the powder and some kapok or pillow stuffing to hold the powder against the primer. When you shoot the target, if the bullets hit a bit far apart then the velocity is too slow and if they cross fire then the velocity is a bit too fast. Then, adjust the charge up or down until they print to the sights, 2-3-inch group at 50 yards is fine. I would suggest you slug the bore to check for a proper diameter of .458”.

With the above you are ready to go and I have done exactly the same for a dozen black powder express rifles in the past.

Good shooting.
Cal

8-bore

2010-04-07T03:51:00.000-08:00

Cal:
I met you in Dallas and Reno, bought your book on 600s, and also have a 600.Can I get any 8 bore ammo from your sources? I'm the guy with the 700ne if you recall. I found 25 rounds in UK. Its all soft nose. Do you shoot solids? I'm sure solids are a must on eles.I can get the softs for my June trip, and locate solids for a future trip. Please let me know who could reload the components for me (if you don't mind), as well as bullet type.

George Caswell at Champlin said that an 8-bore would shake my cage and a 4-bore is like a major automobile accident. I may need to start off with the 8 bore. I have chipped teeth from the "little" 700, from a hasty buff shot. You are quite a big guy, and after looking at your web page pictures, and the recoil experienced, I may stay in the shallow end of the pool for starters. My friend,Nick Holt in the UK, had a 2 bore made for Prince Phillip. Nick shot it and has had dental work,after the first and only shot. It actually lifted him up and back,where he was caught by the rifle maker. If I can get a copy of the firing I will send it up. I don’t want to start out with out "wipe you out" recoil with the bore rifles. I plan to shoot 4 elephant next year and more the year after, still using as many different rifles as I can. The 8-bore idea made more sence after I talked to you in Reno. A 4-bore is something to look at after the 8- bore can be resolved.

Glad I met you and saw your web page. You really have your act together on these big guns.
Best,
Bill J. USA

Bill:
Yes I remember you well and it was a pleasure to meet you, show you my .600 and 4-bore, and talk of the big doubles we love so much. Subsequently I have seen you on Craig Boddington’s dvd and I enjoyed seeing your rifles with Craig.

8-bore compontnts can be had as follows: brass from Rocky Mountain Cartridge, bullet moulds from NEI, wads from Precision Reloading, dies and shell holder from CH Tool, and the big Ammomaster press from RCBS or Huntingtons. I will send you articles I have published for the reloading procedures from the African Hunter and the Black Powder Cartridge News. I do not know of any commercial reloaders for the bore rifles. I would be pleased to offer my assistance but shipping ammo from Alaska is a major pain and I am 100 miles from the FEDEX office.

The recoil is not as bad as people say or write. The “wipe you out” recoil you saw on my website is a heavy 4-bore load for a double rifle fired in a single shot 4-bore that weighed 6-8 pounds less than the double. The nice thing about the bore rifles is you can shoot a variety of bullet weights and powder charges and still maintain a good group as the bigger the bore the more forgiving the regulation is. Enjoy the 8s and when you are ready for a 4 give me a call. Or, if you have some time, fly up and spend a day or two shooting at my place.

Good shooting,
Cal

Daniel Fraser 450/400 3 /14

2010-04-06T03:57:00.000-08:00

Dear Cal:

We met at a gun show last year, and I figured you are a walking Lexicon on Double rifles or as close to it as can be in Alaska.

I shoot a Daniel Fraser 450/400 3 /14" and have had some (limited) luck finding bullets for this rifle. I have shot some Woodleighs through it and it shoots wonderfully. I had purchased some bullets by a company named Hawk Bullets and a friend of mine who has been in the double game for a long time says they are too soft. They do claim they have a thin copper jacket and soft lead to really make a wound channel. That is all good and well, but my friend tells me that as soft as they are they increase pressure in the bore. Okay, some things I believe and others you have to show me.. I am an empirical guy and believe a lot of what I can see, hold or measure. I checked the diameter of the Woodleighs and they are ".4095". The Hawk bullets are ".411". I received several loaded rounds with the rifle and the bullet diameter was .4095. Here is my question and I think I know the answer to it: Will the softer Hawk bullets be okay running at normal velocities or will they deform? Should I just stay away from them and slug the barrel? If the Hawk bullets are too big, who do I contact to swage them just a bit smaller in diameter? I assume it will not be cheap to buy a set up to change the diameter.

As I said, I am an empirical guy, and I am leaning towards measuring the bore.

Thanks in advance, Cal.
Matt M. Anchorage

Matt:

Good to hear from you. I've never heard of soft bullets causing a rise in pressure-- it is the hard ones. Think of it. If it was due to the softness then lead would cause the highest pressure. But rather lead is the low pressure alternative.

As to diameter, 1 to 1 1/2 thousandth I do not believe will cause pressure problems. All of the old rifles had variations in bore diameter. However, pressue will rise with the harndess of the bullet. Barnes has solved this problem with their banded solids that are .002” undersize.

For your nitro rifle, you're using 400-grain bullets you should be fine for .001” oversize. Use copper and not steel jackets as I now am a believer in OSR. CH Tool can possibly give you some information in reducing the diameter of jacketed bullets.

We have a shoot planned at my place Sunday. You're invited.
Good shooting,
Cal

Re-using Bullets

2010-04-05T03:58:00.001-08:00

Dear Cal:
I have read of hunters in the old days reusing bullets taken from animals they shot. Was this done out of necessity or just to prove a point? Have you ever reused any spent bullets?
Amthony K. USA

Anthony:
Interesting questions and I’ll do my best to answer to your satisfaction. I, too, have read of the bore rifle hunters removing a hardened ball from an elephant and shooting it again to kill another beast. Necessity, I’m sure. Perhaps the hunter was out of balls or wanted to conserve what he had. Most of us hunters are interested in bullet performance and so it was in the days of old. Back then, as well as now, hunters examined the bullet or ball out of curiosity. If the bullet or ball was not deformed it would have made for an interesting experiment to reshoot it.

That being said, I feel it would be unsafe to do so today. Many solids are recovered from game with seemingly only the rifling grooves cut into it. However, if the bullet has even a small out of round deformity--unseen to the naked eye--dangerous pressures may result. Of an interesting sideline, this winter I did some shooting on the warmer days. The target was stapled to a piece of 1/2-inch plywood and set against a snow bank. I fired several dozen rounds from my .450-400, .450 no2, .600, and some round balls from my 7-bore.

Last week, after the snow was about gone and I was raking my lawn I noticed the bullets and balls-all were within a one meter circle and in perfect shape, except for the rifling grooves. The plywood offered little rersistance and the soft snow gradually slowed the projectiles until they stopped. By not stopping abruptly they did not loose shape. If I can check for roundness on a run-out gauge, I may try reshooting them for fun.

Good shooting,
Cal

The African Hunter Magazine

2010-04-04T23:29:00.000-08:00

Good news. The African Hunter magazine ran an excellent review of my .600 book. Here it is. The books have still been selling ok but have slowed down a bit. I am still planning to be at the Dallas and Reno shows in January of 2011 with my .600. I will probably leave the heavy 4-bore home. It was an absolute pleasure meeting so many wonderful folks at the shows a few months ago. Thank you all for looking at the site, log, and buying my book. Cheers, Cal

Over Stressed Rifling--a nonbeliever has now seen it!

2010-04-02T19:46:00.001-08:00

OSR UPDATE. I stand corrected. The last day of the SCI show Graeme Wright came to the Zimbabwe Professional Hunter's Association's table and asked if I had a few minutes. I walked with him to meet a fellow who showed me his Hollis .450-400 3" double rifle--most likely a pre-WWI rifle. Graeme said this was an example of over stressed rifling and asked me to look at the outside of the right barrel by holding it up to the light and seeing the light reflecting down the length of the exterior. I saw an uninterrupted line of light from muzzle to breech. Next I held the rifle to the light and down the left barrel. Sure enough the line of reflected light was cut by shadows not quite perpendicular to the light but at an angle. This was not visible to the eye when held any other way and could not be felt by the fingers and I doubt it could be measured. Graeme mentioned this was a mild case of OSR and he has seen far worse. I was amazed. I looked over and over again, comparing both barrels, and there was no doubt about it--it was there.

Now, the main question (and one I can't answer) was WHY it was there. The owner of the rifle said it was due to a Barnes solid bullet of the old style with the solid shank--no grooves or bands. He was very upset and I asked him to come to Barnes with me to discuss the matter. He was too angry to do this even though this happened to his rifle approximately 20 years ago. So, back to the question of why. I have no information as to the bullet, the velocity it was shot at, the powder charge, pressure, diameter, etc...

Graeme had an interesting theory. In Australia, where they have lots of doubles, they have Woodleigh bullets and the soft nose, lead-cored, bullets work just fine. In the states, however, Woodleighs were not available in any great quantity years ago and American shooters shot Barnes and other monolithic bullets such as A-Square. So, we may have more problems of this nature here in the states.

That being said, I will be honest with the readers of this site. I have shot Barnes banded solids 100 times in my Wilkes with no problem and upon my return to Alaska I will examine the barrels as I did in Reno today. Even though I am witness to this in the one rifle I saw I will still stand by my former statements that with the banded solids that are .002" undersize and with the bands to lessen pressure and allow for displaced metal to flow they are fine to shoot. At least in my rifle, anyway. Graeme stated this may be the answer--a bit undersize and with bands--but the older solids were a hard metal and the solid shank did cause higher pressure.

I don't know if pressure is the culprit or the fluidity of the metal. I'm not a metallurgist. Older steels are softer than modern steel. Double rifle barrel walls are thinner than many modern rifles. My .600 barrel walls are much thicker than the .450-400's walls I saw today. That's all I can tell you and that is what I saw. I will post this to the forums upon my return home.

The photo at the top of this post is a pair of Barnes Banded Solids I shot through my .600 Wilkes. It is two of about 100 shots and not a sign of OSR. The answer (I agree with Graeme) is the bands and an undersize bullet. I had enough confidence to shoot them through my vintage .600 and they worked fine with no damage to my rifle.
Cal

Rodda .475NE

2010-03-23T04:04:00.002-08:00

2010-03-18T10:40:00.001-08:00

Cal shoots a 4-bore Thomas Bland with 14 drams, 385 grains of FFg GOEX powder, 2100-grain bullet at his shooting range in Willow, Alaska.

"The Hunt", Cal's new video, see Cal take on Cape Buffalo in Zimbabwe

2010-03-16T05:52:00.004-08:00

Want to live in Alaska?

2010-03-06T19:48:00.002-09:00

Greetings from Alaska. Soon I will add some photos of double rifles owned by friends that you will enjoy--a Bland 4-bore single, Bland 8-bore double, and a Tolley 10.
Also have any of you thought of living in Alaska? Most don't due to the long winters but there are some advantages to living here--low or no taxes is a big one, super hunting and fishing, and freedom with few or no state gun laws. Alaska is perhaps the last state where one can truly be free. I will be putting my log home up for sale soon--a photo can we seen on this home page (with myself shooting my 4-bore.) If any of you would like to explore living here email me and I will send or call with details. This month I will post detailed photos, specifications, along with price and perhaps owner finance. Cheers, all. Cal

OSR UPDATE

2010-01-29T19:20:00.003-09:00

January 23. OSR UPDATE. I stand corrected. The last day of the SCI show Graeme Wright came to the Zimbabwe Professional Hunter's Association's table and asked if I had a few minutes. I walked with him to meet a fellow who showed me his Hollis .450-400 3" double rifle--most likely a pre-WWI rifle. Graeme said this was an example of over stressed rifling and asked me to look at the outside of the right barrel by holding it up to the light and seeing the light reflecting down the length of the exterior. I saw an uninterrupted line of light from muzzle to breech. Next I held the rifle to the light and down the left barrel. Sure enough the line of reflected light was cut by shadows not quite perpendicular to the light but at an angle. This was not visible to the eye when held any other way and could not be felt by the fingers and I doubt it could be measured. Graeme mentioned this was a mild case of OSR and he has seen far worse. I was amazed. I looked over and over again, comparing both barrels, and there was no doubt about it--it was there.

SCI

2010-01-29T19:19:00.002-09:00

January 21. Nothing but great stuff at SCI in Reno. Double rifles galore and Africa all over the place. Seeing old friends and making new ones makes my day.

The book sales are going well both at the booth I am at (number 8--Zimbabwe Professional Hunter's Association with the African Hunter magazine) and at the book signing at Safari Press each day. Not only is Safari Press selling my book but Griffin and Howe, Westley Richards, and Holland and Holland NY has them. Holland and Holland and Purdey may take some back to London as is Paul Roberts who is making the new Jeffery rifles. And, a case or two may make their way to Australia and Zimbabwe.

In addition is I have the pleasure to meet dozens of readers of calpappas.com in person and hearing the positive comments of the site and the book is great!

Thanks, all.

Cal

Market Hall Gun Show

2010-01-29T19:01:00.001-09:00

January 17. It has been a while. Here's a quick update. I'm now in Las Vegas on my way to Reno. Dallas was a GREAT show. Lots of double rifles there at the tables of Westley Richards, Lewis Drake, Champlin Arms, and Jack Puglisi. New doubles were represented by Krieghoff, Heym, and Verney-Carron. I was at the booth of the African Hunter magazine with Anthony Williams and my .600 and 4-bore were on the table drawing in lots of interest. In fact, I left my .600 with a friend in Texas to shoot and hunt with on his ranch as the .600 didn't get much interest when it was next to the huge 4-bore. Lots of interest in my book on the .600s and my website as well with all comments very positive.

At the SCI show in Reno I will be with Anthony again at the Zimbabwe Professional Hunters booth and will also be signing my books with Safari Press between 2:30 and 3:30 each day (or, as they say in Zim, between half two and half three). I have been gathering and will continue to gather information for my next book on the bore rifles as well as additional .600 info for a second volume--not a revised book, but entirely new info and photos. Since publication I have found 4 additional .600s and know of another 30 (22 English and 8 European) but the owners are somewhat secretive. Perhaps when they see the first book, they will know I am serious and will relent to using their rifles--anonymous is fine if they wish.

Lots of interesting data about African hunting. Many PHs and outfitters have not lowered their prices much in the economy. Perhaps they will do so later in the year when they realize they may not sell all of their quota. I still see buffalo hunts in Zim for 13,500 to 15,000 USD and that is way too high for this market. Top end hunters still opt for Tanzania and bargain seekers look to Zim. South Africa has good buffalo (on ranches--but some are certainly big enough to offer a fair chase hunt) but the price is about 13-15K. Tanzania is a bargain if you want to take two buffalo and some outfitters in Zim are offering a second buffalo, too. South Africa will offer a second buff but at 2x the price which puts many outfitters higher than in Tanzania. As to low prices, beware of the buff hunts that are 5-7,000 USD. This may be too good to be true. Get references of as many past clients as possible--not just the few that took great buffalo. Mozambique is opening up nice with some nice trophies coming out of that country.

I'll add to the site more upon my return to Alaska in a week or so. I have over a dozen vintage articles on double rifles mailed to me by a viewer and I will scan and add them as well as any info from the Reno show.

Thanks, all, for looking and your positive comments.

Cal

The .600 looks small...

2009-12-29T06:07:00.001-09:00

The .600 looks small when next to the mighty 4-bore. Initial shooting has been with a 1743-grain hollow-base conical bullet with 90 grains of Blue Dot. MV = 1213. ME = 5696. John Taylor's Knock Out Value = 294.5! And this is only the beginning. I have bullets of 1400, 1650, 1743, 1900, and 2160 grains to experiment with.

Info for bore rifle book

2009-12-16T05:35:00.000-09:00

Good day, all. I'm on the east coast gathering information and photos for my upcoming book on the bore rifles. Yesterday I spent the afternoon with a fella who has owned, handled, and seen more 4- and 8-bore rifles that perhaps anyone in the country or world. He has only one double bore rifle now, an Evans in outstanding condition, but has a truck load of original ammunition, reloading tools, and album after album of photos of the bore rifles. In the 1960s and '70s he knew the few guys in this country what collected bore rifles before it was stylish to do so: Ray Meyer, Ray Marriage, Dick Voight, Howard French, and more. His archives of old magazine articles are a treasure to look through. His contributions will be a welcome addition to the bore rifle book and make the work complete as he has an historical perspective on the bore rifles that will be lost to history if not recorded. I have a few more places to go and then off to the Dallas and Reno Safari Club shows. Of additional interest I did see an old .600 Jeffery that has been lost to time over the years. It was used by one of the old hunters written of in chapter one of my .600 book and was packed away in grease decades ago along with an original .416 Ribgy, a .470 Rigby double, and others. These rifles may come out in the open in the future if the family decides to do so. I'll update this if any more information comes available or after the Dallas show. Good sooting.
Cal

A price for the 4-bore based on two prior sales...

2009-12-01T08:05:00.001-09:00

Both of the sold 4s were Roddas. One, in excellent condition, cased in oak and elephant hide with accessories went for well over 100K. The other was rusted, missing the forend, and in general poor shape went for 70K. My rifle will be priced mid way and is not for the dealer to buy and mark up 20-30K but for the high end collector who wants the largest and among the rarest of the vintage English doubles for his (or her) collection.
Email for details and exact price and I will call you. I will be on the road for two months and don't carry a cell phone. Remember, about 50 vintage 4s were made--that makes them more rare than .600s!

A recent Zimbabwe Hunt with Gary Hopkins

2009-12-01T08:03:00.001-09:00

Here are recent photos from my friend and PH in Zimbabwe, Gary Hopkins. The eland, buffalo, and elephant are all excellent trophies.

Problems in Zimbabwe

2009-11-30T21:08:00.001-09:00

Good day. Here is a letter I wrote at the request of my PH Gary Hopkins regarding the absolute worst hunting camp I was ever in in 14 overseas hunts (13 to Africa). I would avoid Theo's area of Matetsi at all costs. Anyway, I found this in my files and will post it for your interest.

December 17, 2008

To Whom It May Concern:

I write this letter at the request of my friend and PH, Gary Hopkins of Bulawayo. I have known Gary for several years and have hunted with him and vacationed at his home. I should also like to state I have visited Zimbabwe on eight occasions, will continue to do so, and that Zimbabwe is my favorite country in Africa. I encourage many of my friends to visit your beautiful country. However, I would not visit again the Kisibi hunting concession due to the following reasons (I was there between September 3 and 12, 2008):

The camp was in very poor condition. One of the two showers was infested with ants making the facilities difficult and uncomfortable to use.

The fire pit was also ant-infested. The two friends I brought with me from the States for their first African experience, were quite disappointed they could not experience the African tradition of sitting by the camp fire after a hard day of hunting, enjoying the fire and a drink at sundown whilst waiting for dinner, due to the ants.

One friend, Ron Williams, enjoys wine with his dinner. This was requested weeks in advance. However, it was not until approximately one half way through the safari that the camp manager, Adrian, brought a box of low- quality wine. We noticed later that some wine was in the store house at the Woodlands concession. Very unprofessional.

I am diabetic and need diet drinks. I am unable to drink regular soft drinks, beer, or fruit juice. Upon arrival in camp there were a few diet drinks and my PH brought some he purchased from his own funds. The diet drinks were requested weeks in advance. When I asked the manager for diet drinks I was told they, "are too expensive in Botswana" so none were available. The last night of my hunt, Theo Bronkhorst brought some diet drinks for me. I replied in a sarcastic manner, "Thank you. I'll try to drink them before departing at 6 in the morning!"

The buffalo were not in the area contracted for my hunt. Gary Hopkins asked Theo many times for a chance to hunt the Woodlands concession where the buffalo were known to be. After five days, Theo granted us one day to hunt there and I did shoot a sub-standard bull. However, upon my arrival, Theo had a leopard hunter in the area I was contracted to hunt. Fair play should have dictated I could have hunted Woodlands more than the one day allowed (and that was after days of asking)

When Gary and I were hunting we came to another PH and his client who was from California. (I do not remember the name of the PH but he was white, about 5'10" to 6' in height, blondish hair and a full beard). We engaged is a short conversation whereby he told Gary and I that the leopard hunting was rather poor on Woodlands so Theo gave them the opportunity to hunt in the area were I was hunting buffalo. Such sharing of game blocks does not do either hunter well as shots from one scare the quarry the other is after (i.e. shooting leopard bait and building hides whilst I was stalking buffalo.)

The staff in camp was very poor. The workers had a poor attitude--did not give thanks for the gifts they were presented with (torches, batteries, knives, hats, gloves) and two threw their tip money back and said, "Not enough."

The cook was excellent but requests for a repeat of a good dish was ignored. We asked for a repeat of his pizza but the manager did not comply.

The lunches provided, however, were very low quality. One slice of poor quality cold meat and bread. We complained and the lunch quality improved--a bit.

In closing, allow me to state again my desire to visit Zimbabwe many times in the future and I will bring many friends with me. I will NOT visit Kasibi again and post my experiences there on my website as well as the articles I write for several hunting magazines. In these economic times, I believe operators in Zimbabwe should do the best they can to bring in American currency--not to provide low-end services whereby the client departs with no desire to return.

Please feel free to contact me if I can elaborate more or can clarify my experiences further.

Sincerely,

Cal Pappas

Willow Alaska USA

Convention schedule and general update

2009-11-29T18:27:00.000-09:00

Good day all. On December 3 I leave for the east coast to photograph for my bore rifle book and then in January to Texas for the Dallas and Reno Safari Club shows. Please stop by the African Hunter magazine booth (Mag-Set Publications) to visit and shoulder my .600 and 4-bore. Speaking of the 4 I have determined a price. Please email with your phone number and I will call you if you are interested. I will be moving around for Dec. and Jan. and do not carry a cell phone. Since perhaps 50 4-bore doubles were made by the English makers in the old days the price will be expensive and not for a dealer to buy to mark it up 20-30K. I am looking for a high-end collector who wants the biggest and among the rarest of the vintage doubles for his (or her) collection. Only two 4s have sold in the past few years that I am aware of. Both are Roddas. One was in super condition in an elephant hide case with tools and accessories and sold for well over 100K. The other was from India, rusted badly on the exterior, the recoil pad was rotted off, and the forend was missing. This rifle sold for 70K. (I have photos of this rifle. If it had been an 8 it would not have sold for any price due to its condition. But, it was a 4). The price of my rifle will fit between the two.

December and January business

2009-11-24T20:07:00.000-09:00

Good day to all. In a few days I will depart the cold of Alaska for the People's Republic of Massachusetts to visit my mom and travel a bit on the east coast photographing rifles and vintage reloading tools for my next book on the bore rifles. This work should have a dozen 4-bores, 50 8-bores and many smaller bore sizes and a good selection of flintlock and percussion double bore rifles. On the first of January I will fly to a friend's ranch in south Texas to hunt a bit, relax, and travel to the Dallas Safari Club show and then make my way to Reno for the big convention. With me will be my .600 and 4-bore. If you are at the conventions please stop by the African Hunter magazine booth and chat, shoulder my rifles, and see my new book on the .600 nitro express. Upon returning to Alaska I will update my site with several additional articles from the vintage years on double rifles and ask readers to contribute photos of their doubles for posting. Thank you all for reading and for the emails and phone calls. I will be checking my emails on the trip so I will be in communication. Regards, Cal.

Coming Soon on my website: 4-bore for sale--detailed photos.

2009-11-12T05:44:00.001-09:00

It is time to sell my Robert Hughes 4-bore as another is for sale and I would like to upgrade a bit. Within a few days I will post a dozen or more detailed photos of the big 4 on http://www.calpappas.com/ . Price will be determined shortly and will be listed as "POR."

The .600 Nitro Express--Setting the Record Straight

2009-11-08T17:49:00.003-09:00

The .600 nitro express has been a misunderstood cartridge almost since its inception. The myths abound today and are found in book(such as Dangerous Game Rifles) and magazine articles like the one I responded to below. The African Hunter (my favorite magazine) published a very poor piece earlier in 2009 and they later published a watered-down rebuttal in volume 15, issue 2. They first copied my rebuttal to the author but I did not get a reply. For you readers of my website and blog, here is the rebuttal in full. I hope it sets the record straight.

The article on the .600 nitro express in volume 14, number 6, is so damn inaccurate it is an embarrassment that it was published.

Paragraph two lists the cartridges created by Holland and Holland and the .600 as "the most talked about calibre" and of its inception in 1903. It was Jeffery that introduced the cartridge--not to infer that it was Holland's cartridge. It was designed on paper (Kynoch--January 13, 1899) and written of in one journal (The Field, I believe) in 1899 and the first rifle was sold in 1900 (number 8231 sold on April 30th for 30 pounds sterling).

The next paragraph lists the muzzle velocity as 1950 fps. This is from a 28-inch barrel only. And, Taylor owned two .600s. His favorite was a Jeffery regulated for the 100-grain charge of cordite and the other, an unnamed rifle, as the double discharger. The average weight of .600 rifles is in the 14-pound range.

Holland and Holland has built 16 .600s, not 14, from the records I received from Mr. Wilkin earlier this year. More may surface.

The Maharaja Gulab may not have used the rifle that is the subject of this article much, but his size and stature have nothing to do with that. A close friend here in Alaska has Gulab's Jeffery .600 snap action and it is well used! Gulab's also hunted with 8- and 4-bores.

.600s don't weigh 18 pounds. Boddington wrote of this weight in his Safari Rifles (page 94), but they don't. I have 204 rifles in my data base and only 2 are listed at that weight and one of those is unconfirmed.

The paragraph stating the statistics of the H&H .600 that was sold by Holts was taken directly from the Holts auction catalog and credit should have been given. The same for the beautiful photo. That photo is the copyright of Holts. Permission should have been given for its use as well as credit given.

A direct insult to Holland and Holland is in the paragraph about the last .600. Holland did build a "few" .600s "over the years" but to state that, "those [plural] being sold with the express guarantee that it would be the last and largest H&H built" is absolutely incorrect. Only one rifle, began in 1970 and completed in 1975, number 35478, was produced as the last .600. A company of Holland and Holland's reputation to the world would never state to more than one customer their rifle would be the "last." Also, nothing was ever said about the "largest" rifle being the .600 as they produced 8- and 4-bores. (One unconfirmed story is that Holland and Holland, knowing the glory days of elephant hunting and cartridges for the rifles were coming to an end, was to build a series of three "last" rifles--.600, .577. and .500 nitro expresses. Only the .600 was produced. As to why the .577 and .500 were not produced has been lost to history--if they were planned to be made at all.)

The information on the beginnings of the .700 is basically correct, but never, repeat never, EVER has the .700 been loaded to 2600 fps. This has never been suggested by Holland and Holland nor the originator, Mr. Feldstein. To do so would most certainly destroy a double rifle.

The last paragraph is also incorrect. The owner of the last .600, which he bought 50-50 with his father (and now its sole owner since his father's passing in 1993), was not paid a "significant sum of money" to allow H&H to begin producing the .600 again. The agreement was a pair of Royal 20-bore shotguns. The pair are numbered 1 and 2 but are in individual oak and leather cases so as to be passed to two separate heirs one day. Customers are friends of Holland and Holland and the deal was between friends.

In closing, Mr. Murphy's facts are so distorted in this piece I am suspect of his past articles as to accuracy and will read his future articles (.700 nitro express) with the same skepticism. And, as to "nasty stuff that gores or stomps," "hunt the odd blue whale," or an "orthopedic surgeon [to send] his kids to a good university," well, let's leave the Capstick-isms to PHC.

Cal Pappas

Willow, Alaska

African Hunter Double Rifle Advisor

PS. I have spoken at length with Mr. Feldstein, many at Holland and Holland, and the original purchaser of the last .600, and have handled and photographed the last .600 and the pair of 20-bore shotguns. All of the information above will be in my book on the .600. The printers have it now and delivery should be in August or September. Information can be found shortly at calpappas.com "the best in double rifles and African hunting"

from Cal's new book, "The 600 Nitro Express"

2009-11-06T07:25:00.006-09:00

Shooting Barnes Banded Solids

(Click on page to enlarge)

Ordering Info

Miscellaneous articles on African hunting in the 1950s-1960s

2009-11-04T06:40:00.002-09:00

On my website I have scanned the following nine articles about general hunting in Africa.
"Africa Has Everything" tells of all the advantages of hunting the dark continent. No doubt, even today, you can do it all in Africa. "African Game Makes Your Hair Stand" is a good account of dangerous game and some of the sticky situations one can get oneself in. "Heaven Help the White Hunter" is an excellent overview of the trials and tribulations of being a PH (however back in the days, White Hunter was in vogue). A PH, today or then, does (did) it all--a bartender, mechanic, politician, crack shot, hunter, etc... "Mozambique Trophy Quest" tells of hunting in that little-known hunting area. Even today, Mozambique is a destination most hunters do not think of. That is too bad as the trophy quality is good and the prices are fair.

"The Selous Has Opened" tells of the opening of this grand hunting area in southeast Tanzania. Both Tanzania and Kenya closed hunting in the 1970s with Tanzania reopening hunting in the 1980s. Kenya's game and economy have suffered due to the closing and Tanzania's game and economy has grown due to the presence of hunters. I hope you gather lots of good information from these pieces of history.

Elmer Keith on Africa

2009-11-03T07:01:00.003-09:00

No doubt, Elmer Keith was the most dedicated writer of his era to champion the use of double rifles, heavy bullets, and moderate velocity. He also had great experiences in Africa. Other writers of the time--O'Connor, Askins, Page, and others also wrote of Africa but it was Elmer who used our favorite rifles.

I have only four of Keith's stories reproduced here. "Africa's Grey Ghost" details hunting the greater kudu. "Keith's Last Two Shots in Africa" is about his last hunt for rhino and other dangerous game with his favorite double rifles. While elmer owned many double up to and including at .577 and .600 Jeffery, his .476 Westley Richards was his favorite. "Shooting Dangerous Game" is Elmer's opinion of how and where to shoot game that can hit back as well as what rifles and calibers to use. "Africa's Plains Game is East to Hunt but Hard to Kill' expands on what so many others have said that African plains game is difficult to put down--the desire to cling to life to the very end shows African plains game not to give up the ghost without a fight. They remain standing as long as possible as they seem to know if they go down all is over. I have noticed this on many of my African Hunts.

If you enjoy what Elmer has to say about hunting in Africa, look to his articles on double rifles elsewhere on my website.

The Nile Crocodile

2009-11-02T06:54:00.001-09:00

The croc has the distinction of (my estimate) of killing more Africans than any other animal except mosquitos and the diseases they carry. Crocs have been hunted for their skins for leather or for the trophy. Trust me, it is a challenging hunt if you (as I did) hunt with a double rifle and have to get close for the shot. Using a 'scoped high velocity magnum it is a relatively easy assassination. You MUST anchor the croc with the first shot--a brain shot is the only option, or he will go in the water and sink upon death. I do not know anyone who will dive in after him to get him to shore.

Only four articles on croc hunting are here for you. It as not a popular hunting venture in the 19402s-1970s so not many stories exist. "The Cautious Crocodile" by Warren Page is a good overview. "Having a Crack at Crocs" and "Africa's Maneating Monsters" also will give you an idea of what crocs do in Africa. "The Axe Men of Africa" is a story of natives killing crocs axes.

Africa is interesting in that it hold a value of human life different than here in the west. Women will draw water from a nearby river's still pool. Crocs know this and wait. When the woman puts her container in the water the croc will shoot forward, grab her, and drag her under in a split second. (Kind of like the first Crocodile Dundee but without the time for a struggle). Fellow villagers know of her fate when they follow her tracks to the water to search for her. The next day, another woman draws water from the same place.

Rhino hunting in the good old days

2009-11-01T12:44:00.001-09:00

Thanks for all the emails and feedback on these old magazine articles posted on my website. The batch of six articles on hunting the black rhino is a good look at history as black rhino hunting as it should be is no more. The past few years have seen a few black rhino being "permitted" to be hunted and some have gone for 175-250,000$. Wow! And even for that kind of money the rhinos are ranch raised and about as tame as an animal can get. White rhino, while much bigger and much more docile are also less expensive--about 40-55,000$ for a good trophy and 10K for a green or darted hunt. Still not much of a hunt. In Zimbabwe about 60 black rhinos are poached every year. One failed method to stop the poaching was for government game scouts to dart and then cut the horn off the rhino. The thought being they would not be killed is they had no horn. Didn't work. After spending days tracking the rhino and then finding it had no horn, it was killed anyway to prevent more failed tracking.

Jack O'Connor's "The Rhinoceros" is a great overview of hunting that animal. "A Rhino That Would Have Amused TR" by one of Teddy Roosevelt's relatives is also a good read. "Kifaru" is by Ralph Hammer who was a noted hunter and rifleman of the mid years of the last century is a good recollection of his experiences with rhinos. (Hammer also wrote elsewhere about the .450 Watts and his safari with Jim Watts' favorite caliber). "I'm Not Mad At Rhinos Anymore" is a good story from one of the few female big game hunters--Irene Morden. "Double Back on the Spoor"

I hope you travel to my website and read these fine stories.

cape buffalo articles from the vintage years

2009-10-31T20:37:00.001-08:00

Good day! I hope you take a look at the ten old articles on hunting the cape buffalo. Today buffalo hunting is the most common and affordable of the big five hunts. There is enough buffalo hunting today to allow you to hunt any way you wish: walk all day and track to shooting from vehicles to secure your trophy. Zimbabwe has the most affordable hunts today and the prices are dropping due to the economy. Tanzania has great buff but you'll pay for it--about 30K when all the bills are paid. South Africa has good buff but they are on private ranches and may or may not be fair chase.

Most of the articles here have the same flavor for sensationalism that brought Capstick so much fame. While it makes for good reading the fact is buffalo are just cattle and will run when they smell or see you. If wounded by a hunter or another buff they may be in a bod mood but the chance of a true charge is slim. Remember, it is not a charge if the buffalo is running and happens to run in your direction. "Suicide Made Easy," "Buffalo Shoot Back," "Death in the Tall Grass," and "Killer Rogue of the Sichifuru" are examples of this. (If I wrote of my last buffalo hunt in September of 2008 in Zim you would be disappointed. Nothing of great danger took place).

Anyway, enjoy the articles. Hunting in the old days had a special flavor about it. A friend hunted Kenya in the 1960s and 1970s. He and his father took 19 buffalo with the SMALLEST being 44 inches! Those were the days!

4- Bore Ballistics

2009-10-30T11:51:00.001-08:00

Leopard hunting articles from the good old days.

2009-10-30T06:54:00.002-08:00

There are five articles on leopard hunting scanned and placed on my website. Leopard hunting today is going strong although Mr. Spots is rarely seen during the day anymore. Most leopards are hunted over baits but there is a growing interest in using dogs. Using dogs used to be quite a bit more expensive that bait hunts but I have noticed the prices about equal with many outfitters/PHs. I'm sure this is due to the much shorter hunt--once the dogs get on a track the hunt will be over with later that day.

The five articles give a good overview of leopard hunting. Erwin Bauer's "The Most Elegant Cat on Earth" is a good story of this magnificent animal while Gil Paust's "World's Most Dangerous Animal" is one man's opinion on which of the big 5 is the most dangerous. Alexander Lake has an article here but remember Mr. Lake's book has been throughly debunked as to replacing facts with nonsense. Two other articles are good reads.
While lion hunting may be on the last days, leopard hunting should be here for a long time as leopards are still in great number and take countless domestic animals throughout Africa.

Lion Hunting- vintage articles

2009-10-29T07:08:00.003-08:00

Lion hunting as it was in the days of these articles will never happen again. In fact, many groups want to ban all lion hunting in all African countries! In part this is due to the bad press of canned lion hunting that is so common in South Africa.
Not all SA lion hunts are "canned" and large tracts of private land can afford the big cats a chance to escape or to live on their own and kill their own food. On the far other end of the spectrum are the small ranches that feed the lions fresh meat, can actually pat their "pets," and are separated in pastures by mane color. No lie--I've seen it!

Anyway, the 15 articles I have scanned will give a good overview of true lion hunting. Some are by hunters who penned a story of their hunt while others are by the best-known hunters and writers of the time. O'Connor's "Lion on the Kilombero" strikes a personal note as that is where I shot my lion in Tanzania's Kilombero River in the Selous in 2006. Brandon Macomber's "Mauled" is a good story whose title tells it all. Macomber was a well-known hunter and a friend of James Mellon. Ralph Hammer's "Too Many Lions" and "Lions on Occasion" by John Burger are two excellent stories by international hunters of some fame. John Kingsley-Heath was a PH and wrote is story of a mauling in "A Lion Mangled Me." The other articles are just as good. I hope you enjoy them and learn of a sport that is nearly no more.

Nitro Express Rifles- the vintage articles

2009-10-28T05:48:00.003-08:00

Good morning all. It is 5am here in Alaska, snow is around the corner, and I'm off to take the labs for a walk for an hour.
But first, I'd like to post information on the vintage articles for nitro express rifles--14 on them. Two are the absolute bibles of double rifles shooting and have been for decades until Graeme Wright's book was published--"Shooting the British Double Rifle"--now in its third edition. (If you shoot double, get this book. It is a masterpiece). Anyway, hack Lott's "the Double Rifle--Is Care and Feeding is alone just what you need. Everything is here on all aspects of double rifles shooting for the nitro express calibers--as is "Smokeless Loads for Double Rifles." This articles has good (but limited for the time) information and reloading data. Another thing I like about this articles is my Hughes 4-bore is pictured on page 204 and 210. "Big Bullets are Best" is a follow up on elmer Keith's stories on the advantages of heavier bullets and a moderate velocity. I remember James Watts telling me that after he developed his .450 Watts that Roy Weatherby told him, "It is velocity that kills. Nothing but velocity."

"A Double For Danger" and two articles a decade apart both titled "Double Barrel Rifles" a filled with good general and historical information about rifles with the twin tubes. "Building a Double Rifle" is a good story on the construction of a double--the complexities are far more than a single barrel weapon. Maloclm Lyell of Holland and Holland wrote the excellent "The Double Rifle" and is a great piece from the director of the world's finest maker. Jack O'Connor (Mr. .270) has his say in his "Double Rifles". Actually a very good piece even though doubles were not jack's forte'. "Don't Label Doubles" is a good articles stating that double are not limited in their use. Many can be used for longer shots with care, small to medium game, and woods as well as open country hunting. "Loads for Double Rifles" and "Loads for Dangerous Game" are good starting points for double rifle ballastics. "The Rifle That Won Africa" details why doubles were so common there-- the instant second shot, two separate locks, and the larger size of the cartridge for such big game. "Who's Afraid of Kick" is a cute story about a gal who is a big game hunter and seems to enjoy the recoil of big doubles.

The African Hunter Magazine

2009-10-27T08:56:00.004-08:00

   Good News! The African Hunter magazine is the best publication on hunting in Africa due to the fact that it is truly "African"--not just about Africa and hunting there. And, knowing that double rifles are an important part of the African hunting scene too, the editor of the AH, Anthony Williams, has invited me to be at this booth both at the Dallas Safari Club and at the Reno Safari Club Convention.
   I will answer any questions you may have about double rifles and it will be a great experience to meet many of you who view my website and call and/or email with comments.
   At the booth I will have my .600 Wilkes and 4-bore Hughes with me for you to shoulder and to examine the greatest hunting rifles ever manufactured. And, of course, I will have a few copies of my .600 book for sale there and it will be an honor to sign the book for you. I hope to see you there this January!

2009-10-26T18:03:00.002-08:00

Good day fellow double rifle shooters. For the next batch of vintage articles I'd like to introduce is a small group of three articles on black powder express rifles.
For today's shooters, black powder express is a great and economical way to begin your addiction (although Dr. Phil and Dr. Laura would call it a choice) to double rifles. They are low priced, easy to shoot, recoil is mild, and brass and bullet moulds are available. "Regulating a Double Rifle," "Try a Black Powder Double Rifle," and "Double Trouble" are both a historical and ballistic treasure.

All of the black powder info is here from the .360 to .577--powder charges, regulation, velocity, bullets, etc... I will try to add to this list soon. I have many more articles in my files but the copyright is in force and/or the authors are still with us.

Old Magazine Articles- Bore Rifles

2009-10-26T06:53:00.002-08:00

The second group of double articles I have on my site, CalPappas.com, are 9 articles on bore rifles.

These are the biggest shoulder-held firearms in the world and unlike today, when folks buy or make large rifles to have the biggest gun on the block, these rifles were made to serve a purpose--to stop the largest and most dangerous game on earth. George Hoyem's article from a 1972 American Rifleman entitled "Mighty Rifles of the Past" is an excellent history of the bore rifles. "Elephant Stopper Deluxe" and "It's a Paradox", both by Howard French, are informative pieces of the big bores and specifically the Paradox. Howard was the premier bore rifle man in the 1950s and 1960s in the USA. "Big Bores of the British Empire", by Jack Lott, is a good history of the bore rifles and where they were used. Jack's "8-Bore Double Rifle" is a story about his personal Rodda *. "Dinosaur Stopper" deals with using kiln shells in the 8-bores and getting some tremendous ballistics from the old rifles. "Great Guns", "To Down a Mammoth," and "World's Largest Big Bores" complete the list.

All nine articles give excellent history and ballistic data and should serve to give the reader a comprehensive overview of the topic. I hope you enjoy them as much as I have reading them and shooting my bore rifles.

vintage articles on double rifles and African hunting: 1940s-1970s

2009-10-25T18:48:00.010-08:00

Thanks all for looking at my website and the articles on double rifles.

Elmer Keith was the greatest of the gun writers of 1900s. O'connor, Askins, Page, and others wrote as much or more than Elmer but Keith was the champion of big bores, double rifles, and heavy bullets at moderate velocity.
On my website, CalPappas.com, I have reproduced 11 of Elmer's articles. No doubt, he got a lot of milage from each hunt and/or shooting experience and some of the same information can be found in many of his articles. First is the chapter on double rifles from his great book, "Big Game Rifles and Cartridges". I retyped it for the site and for a magazine article. It gives EK's opinion on double rifles and is timeless. "British Double and Single Rifles" covers basic info on the rifles of the title with some good info on the British doubles. "Rifles With Stopping Power" focuses on the big bores and their use on big game--African game, that is. "The Deadly Dependable Double" is a wonderful overview of the double rifle and what it was (and still is) made for--use against game that can hit back. "Put Your Double Rifle Into Action" is a good story on taking your double out of the safe or closet and getting it to shoot and doing with it what it was made for--shooting and hunting. "Keith On Big Bullets" is Elmer's info on big bullets over the smaller bullets and high velocity of the Weatherby Club and the advantages of the heavy bullet. "Rifles for Africa" and "The African Battery" cover the same topic--what type of rifles to bring for a full-bag hunt--on game of all sizes. "Elmer Keith's Favorite Guns" highlights many of his rifles including several of his doubles. "Rifles For Dangerous Game" covers Elmer's choices for the big ones. Lots of good double rifle information here. Last of all is his "Keith's Choice of Game Loads" for his opinion of calibers and rifles for game of various sizes.

Index of Vintage Elephant Hunting Articles at CalPappas.com

2009-10-15T23:06:00.000-08:00

   Death of a Rogue by Dr. Robert A. Killebrew. Source and date unknown
   Double on the Biggest Game by Warren Page. Field & Stream, September, 1959
   Elephant Six Arms Out by Berry B. Brooks. Outdoor Life, December, 1951
   Elephants I've Met by J.A. Hunter. Outdoor Life, February, 1958
   Elephants on the Zambezi by Jack O'Connor. Outdoor Life, January, 1970
   Forty Elephants a Day by Warren Page. Field & Stream, May, 1960
   Hunting the African Elephant by John B. George. American Rifleman, December, 1955
   I Shot the Biggest Elephant in the World by Joseph Fenykovi. Source and date unknown.
   Last of the Mammoths by T. Murray Smith. Field & Stream, June, 1948
   Safaris That Stink by Steve Miller. Gunsport, September, 1967
   Old Shuguli by Alice Landreth. Outdoor Life, February, 1967
   The Bargain Bull of Bala M'Bala by Russell Barnett Aitken. Field & Stream, February, 1951
   The World's Record Elephant Hunt by Francis Dickie. Source and date unknown
   This Man Has Killed 164 Elephants by Col. Charles Askins. Guns, September, 1962
   Those Bad Tempered Tuskers by John Jobson. Sports Afield, May, 1969
   Trophy Tusker by Peter Barrett. True, March, 1969
   Trouble by the Ton by Dr. Charles B. Stacy. Outdoor Life, May, 1957
   We Found the Elephant Place by Erwin A. Bauer. Outdoor Life, August, 1966
   Year of the Big Ivory by Elgin Gates. Source and date unknown

Vintage Articles about Elephant hunting

2009-10-14T18:40:00.000-08:00

Elephant hunting. Nothing quite captures the image of hunting the dark continent than does hunting the largest of all the earth's land animals--the African elephant. While good elephant hunting is still possible in today's Africa the areas for quality tusks are shrinking rapidly due to population expansion and land use. The largest tusked elephants to be found today are in eastern Botswana and western Zimbabwe--they are the same gene pool. Sadly many of them are shot over water holes with spot lights. I have turned down the chance to hunt this herd as I stay away from this type of hunting. However, back in "the days" elephant hunting was as fair chase as possible and is illustrated in the 19 articles I have scanned here for you to read.

Warren Page, Col. Askins, and Jack O'Connor all have there say here with some fine stories. Most interesting is Joseph Fenykovi's "I Shot the Biggest Elephant in the World." With small tusks for the hugh 13 foot tall size (about 80 pounds if I recall) this grand jumbo is in the Smithsonian Museum in DC. Elgin Gates, always a good writer of his adventures tells us of his experiences in "Year of the Big Ivory." It was still possible through the 1970s and even to the early 1980s to expect a 100 pounder on a 30 day safari.

Stories of rogue elephant abound. "Death of a Rogue," "Those Bad Tempered Tuskers," and "Trouble by the Ton" are three. However, even in the good old days some folks hunted in a less than ethical manner. "Safaris That Stink" is a story of such practices. "Elephants on the Zambezi" strikes a personal note as I have hunted elephant three times on the shores of that great river: 2003, 2005, and 2008. (However I turned down a few shots as the ivory was smaller than I would like). "Old Shuguli" by Alice Landreth is one of the very few stories of female hunters--and she does an great job of it! Check out the photos of her and her tusks!

Anyway, enjoy the articles. From all the emails I have been getting it is worth the effort! Thanks to you all.
Cal

the .475 Rodda Nitro Express

2009-10-08T04:47:00.002-08:00

See a short video of this beautiful double on my site at...
http://www.calpappas.com/id14.html
or at YouTube...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OgTyf8vmM08&layer_token=65da2260092b4e1c

A sample of 4-bore ballistics

2009-09-27T04:56:00.000-08:00

1743-grain conical bullet: 440 grains FFg = 1492 fps

1743-grain conical bullet: 440 grains Fg = 1262 fps

1743-grain conical bullet: 90 grains of Blue Dot = 1319 fps

1400-grain round ball: 120 grains of Blue Dot = 1700 fps

THE .600 NITRO EXPRESS, A LOOK AT THE WORLD’S FINEST RIFLES by Cal Pappas

2009-09-20T09:59:00.000-08:00

THE BOOKS ARE HERE! Order details are on the book's section of my web site, http://www.calpappas.com/id89.html . I will mail the first group of books Friday or Saturday (9-25-26).

Magazine articles from the past at CalPappas.com

2009-09-17T02:53:00.003-08:00

Three dozen articles about double rifles have been scanned and added as well as many about hunting croc, lion, leopard, and African articles from Elmer Keith. I'm adding about 10 for buffalo hunting to be followed by elephant (about 15) then general stories about African hunting (about 20).

These old articles from the 1950s and 1960s illustrate what great hunting was available in Africa. All this and more can be seen at CalPappas.com.

Matebeleland Taxidermy- Bulawayo, Zimbabwe

2009-09-14T07:51:00.001-08:00

You may remember my problem with Matebeleland Taxidermy and my three skulls (buffalo, water buck, and kudu) arriving in a crate with no packing material what-so-ever and bone damage and knocked out teeth. Matabeleland offered to pay for the damage (after I told them I had glued in the broken parts) and assured me they crate left their shop with the skulls packed well, wrapped in plastic, and strapped to the crate's inside. My box arrived with none of the above nor was their any evidence of strapping attachments to the interior of the box.
It is yesterday's news but I would recommend (after 14 overseas trips) to have your taxidermy done in the good 'ol USA. At least if it is not to your liking, you have recourse. If anything is done in Africa and it is not to your liking, you are out of luck. I have had over a dozen mounts done in South Africa, Australia, and Zimbabwe and all but one has cracked, hair slipped, or the wrong horns added. I have given them all away.

2009-08-30T19:35:00.000-08:00

Hi Cal,

Thanks for the breathtakingly prompt reply !

Dan

Dan:

Good to hear from you.

Here is what I know, but I'm afraid it is not much.

1. There would have been no problem with just a "Lyon & Co." L&L may have sounded better but it may have been a distant relative--either active or a silent partner--who had some involvement in the business. Or, it may have been for legal (corporation) reasons (protection from lawsuits, another single business named "Lyon," etc..

2.I don't know the history of Lyon and Lyon. I do have an outstanding L&L ball and shot gun, however. As to the Purdey link, email Purdey and ask them. Nigel Beaumont is the chairman and he is at: nigel.beaumont@james-purdey.co.uk

Rodda was also a retailer in India (as was Walter Locke, Manton, and P. Orr) and these five were the largest arms retailers there. India boasted more sportsmen that Africa and the Londaon and Birmingham gun trade followed them there. Lyon, like Manton, made a few firearms but perhaps received them in the "white" and added finish to them. They also retailed completed firearms from many makers in the UK and the USA. The volume they sold made it impossible to make everything they sold.

I hope this helps. Email if I can be of further service.

Regards,

Cal

________________________________

Hi Cal,

I am researching a WW1 Royal Engineer, who was born in Calcutta, the only son of James Lyon, who had a shop on Chowringhee Street, trading as "Lyon & Lyon".

James Lyon overcame a few problems to get to where he got - he was orphaned as an infant and had to be taken in by his great-aunt.

I wonder if you can help me with a couple of points, which have defeated his nephew, who is happily emailing me at the age of 80.

First, if he had no male siblings we cannot work out who the second Lyon was in "Lyon & Lyon". We both think that there was no second Lyon. His nephew wonders if it was simply that the name sounded better than the simple "Lyon & Co". I wonder if there would actually have been a problem with "Lyon & Co" because there was already a business trading under that name in Bombay.

Second, I have seen one web entry which asserts that James Lyon worked for Purdey before setting up on his own. And I have found him in the 1895 Directory of Calcutta, working for RW Rodda & Co. His nephew believes he made his own guns in Calcutta, and he certainly described himself as a gunmaker in various family documents, but I wonder if he imported them from England. Perhaps he did both.

I have seen a message on one of the forum websites to the effect that "James Lyon is in the database", and I suspect that both answers are in there, but of course as a non-member I cannot access that.

Could I trouble you for a few minutes of your time, to cast a bit of light on all this ?

Regards,

Dan

More Recent 4-bore

2009-08-24T04:57:00.001-08:00

Right: Great shot of the smoke cloud and the recoil of the big 4. No wonder the hunters of old had a concern of not being able to see if the quarry was dead, running away or charging. Below: a selection of 4-bore projectiles from a 1400-grain ball to a 2160-grain Paradox bullet. A .22 long rifle and a .30-30 are shown to compare size.

I shot my 4-bore yesterday...

2009-08-23T08:42:00.004-08:00

Shooting the 4-bore is not soon forgotten! The maximum load was: a full ounce of powder (440 grains), a 1743-grain bullet, for a muzzle velocity of 1492 fps! Above: full recoil just before stepping back a step to keep my balance. Below: the smoke is still in the air as I break the action.

2009-08-18T17:46:00.002-08:00

THE LORD SELBORNE DOUBLE

Joe Da Silva

I have been a firearms dealer for over 26 years in South Africa, based in Cape Town. All through the years I have had a passion for double rifles, especially for the English doubles. I have hunted with doubles and have also shot with many of them up to the 600, my favourites being the 470 and the 500/416. I have always dreamed of owning a double rifle.

Naturally, I have dealt with many a double in the trade. The rifle I remember most clearly was one that I foolishly let slip through my fingers, but maybe the time was not right. A gentleman came in with a cased 470 Jeffery and the appropriate ammo. He wanted to sell it. He had inherited the firearm from his brother, but did not have any use for it.

The double was in perfect condition. There was not a mark or scratch to be seen and even the leather had that new smell. The seller mentioned that only 12 rounds had been fired. I then said that I was interested and would like to fire a couple rounds at the range. I did this on the same day, a Saturday. After shooting at the range, we sat down to discuss an asking price. The gentleman mentioned R15.000.00 (US$ 3 157. 00 at 4.75 to the Rand). That was back in 1993. At that time, this was a great deal of money for me. R15.000.00 would have bought 10 X Rossi 38 Special revolvers, representing important stock for my business and also more profit for me. I offered the seller R12.000.00, but he declined it, saying that he would get back to me. Of course, he never did.

Two months later, I heard that the double had been sold for R15.000.00. It was resold again for R50.000.00 and then, within a year, it fetched R140.000.00! What a fool I had been and what a lesson I had learned.

Some 16 years later I received a call from a very good friend of mine, Adelino Serras Pires, one of the pioneers in the African safari industry and the well-known author of the book WINDS OF HAVOC. Adelino mentioned that he was at the home of a very good friend of his in Pretoria who had an English double for sale. My ears pricked up in an instant.

The person in question was Sérgio Pais Mamede. He had been a professional hunter up to the early 1970s in Mozambique in Area 16. Adelino said he was holding Sérgio’s Cogswell & Harrison in his hands and that it felt very heavy. Did I know anyone who would be interested in buying the double? I can remember shouting “YES! YES! Tell me more!” Adelino told me that the seller also had the ammunition - 450/400 three-quarter. When I said that I wanted the rifle, Adelino was surprised, saying that he didn’t know I was interested in English doubles.

Remembering the expensive lesson concerning the Jeffery in 1993, I then had a chance to speak with Sérgio who told me at length about his double rifle. I knew straight away that I wanted to buy it and I asked him what he wanted for it. Sérgio was unsure, advising me to fly up and come and see him at his home in Pretoria in order to discuss the matter in person.

I had to contain my growing excitement for a month as Sérgio had business commitments in Mozambique. During those four weeks, I spent all the time I could spare researching the double rifle. I contacted Cogswell & Harrison over the Internet, asking them to give a ballpark price if the double was in good condition. They weren’t very helpful, saying that I should consult a gunsmith who had knowledge of these types of firearms. Well, there are only a handful of such people in South Africa and most of them would have grabbed the rifle in a flash before I could even have had a chance to examine it. The 1993 Jeffery lesson was uppermost in my mind and I was not about to make the same stupid mistake again.

What Cogswell & Harrison would offer, when provided with the serial number, was a Certificate of Origin giving the date when the rifle was completed and the full original records from the archive section for that year, the name of the first purchaser and the price paid for the rifle. Cogswell & Harrison is one of the oldest firearms companies in the world and has records going back over 240 years.

I asked if the company had any secondhand or new leather cases for the double as Sérgio mentioned that the case was no longer available. I did not receive any response which I found a little strange. I waited for a solid month in ever-growing anticipation for my day to arrive and my flight up to Johannesburg to meet Sérgio and examine the double rifle.

The day finally dawned and I was on my way. Adelino Serras Pires kindly collected me at the airport. At rising 81, he is still sharp and very fit. Off we went to Pretoria and Sergio’s home. He and his lovely wife had organised lunch at a restaurant before we could come back to the house, settle down and talk doubles. The anticipation was killing me throughout lunch. I kept wondering if Sérgio was going to accept the offer I had in mind.

Two hours later, we entered Sérgio’s study where he showed me the double. It was great being able to finally handle that 13-pound beauty. It was immediately apparent that the firearm had been re-blued. What was not so quickly evident was the extraordinary story that resulted in the re-blueing. As Sérgio started telling me the story, I knew that I was onto something special and that the 1993 Jeffery fiasco was about to be overridden by an exceptional find.

Sérgio’s father, Orlando, was from a great pioneering family in Mozambique. Between the two World Wars, they had helped found and develop out of pristine bush and under very tough conditions what became the small town of Mapai, on the Limpopo River. It is close to the northern reaches of South Africa’s Kruger National Park. The settlement’s name was inspired by the family surname Pais Mamede.

Hunting was a natural part of daily life and Sérgio’s father became an accomplished big game hunter. He regularly hosted special guests such as General Jan Smuts who hunted a great deal with him in the vast open country of Mozambique with its then flourishing wildlife populations. As Sérgio began sharing the unique story behind the double rifle, my eyes wandered along the walls of his study with their historic photographs of that time.

When Sérgio was only eight years old, he remembered his dad taking the heavy double out on hunts. Nobody was allowed to touch it, let alone fire it, without Orlando’s express approval. The Pais Mamedes hunted most of the time with 375 H&H and 458 WM rifles, but when the heat was on Orlando would bring the double as backup gun.

Something very odd then happened to Orlando’s double. It started with a buffalo hunt. Sérgio and his father had gone hunting for buffalo and they were both using their bolt action rifles. One of the trackers acted as gun bearer and had been instructed to carry the double just in case. Father and son were successful in hunting three buffalo that day. The vehicle had been parked quite some distance from where they had decided to skin all three buffalo, the process lasting until late into the night. Sérgio, in the meantime, set off to fetch the vehicle. When he returned, all the meat was loaded onto the jeep and the entire group headed back to the farmhouse, the staff already excited at the prospect of a feast.

This is when the story takes a strange turn. Some three years after that buffalo hunt, Sérgio and his father were hosting clients who had come over to hunt two elephant and three buffalo. While packing the vehicle and organising the necessary equipment and firearms, Orlando asked where his double was. Sérgio was unable to help as he had not seen it for a long time. He had presumed his father had locked it up as was his custom.

All hell then erupted as Orlando barked orders and everybody, be they kitchen staff, trackers or drivers, had to pitch in and pretty well tear the place apart in the search for the missing double rifle. It was pandemonium. Sérgio simply couldn’t figure out how his father had not seen to the safe storage of the double rifle at the time. Nobody was ever allowed to casually handle the rifle.

Suddenly, a very short chap, one of the family’s best trackers, spoke up. He said that he seemed to remember leaving the double under the big baobab tree near where father and son had shot the three buffalo three years previously and where everyone had worked until late into the night skinning the trio. Well, it was like a series of hand grenades going off as Orlando angrily ordered his son and the tracker to drive out that second and see if his most valuable firearm was still under the baobab. Out into the wilds Sérgio and the tracker went, making for the landmark baobab, not daring to even think what would happened if the rifle had since disappeared.

To the utter astonishment of both men, there it was, lying at the foot of one of the massive baobab roots, in a somewhat sheltered position, exactly where the tracker had left it. After three years in the open where it could so easily have been destroyed under the weight of the big game that roamed or by the elements alone, the rifle was still in remarkably good shape. Nothing that a little re-blueing couldn’t fix! The fact that the rifle had not been touched also proved how remote and uninhabited that particular area was at the time.

I listened, looked, asked questions and turned the double over and over in my hands, shouldering it and feeling it every which way before making my bid. Sérgio accepted my offer on the spot. I felt quite light-headed with relief because I knew I had at last been able to fulfill a very special ambition of mine – to own a British double rifle.

My relief and genuine delight turned into outright elation when Cogswell & Harrison sent me the Certificate of Origin, revealing the provenance of the rifle. I learned that it had been completed on 18 January 1905 and that it had been customised for none other than William Waldegrave Palmer, the 2^nd Earl of Selborne KG, GCMG, PC, who took delivery of the rifle on 27 April 1905.

That was the year in which Lord Selborne succeeded Lord Milner as High Commissioner of South Africa and Governor of the Transvaal and Orange River Colonies. He had just completed his term as First Lord of the Admiralty before assuming this new office in May 1905 in Pretoria!

Lord Selborne had a very distinguished political career, retiring as High Commissioner on the eve of the establishment of the Union of South Africa in 1910. He had come to South Africa at a time when memories of the ruinous Anglo-Boer War were still raw. Such was his character and attitude that he came to be known as “the Peacemaker”, earning the genuine respect and affection of the Boer people while in South Africa. My double rifle can rightly be classed as an item of true Africana significance because of the Selborne provenance. The 1993 Jeffery disappointment seemed as nothing now that I understood just what a treasure I had acquired.

The Selborne double, very tastefully engraved by the way, has a hammerless action and was fitted with the Cogswell and Harrison assisted opening and ejector mechanism, known as the Avant Tout. It has top lever opening and automatic top safety, the barrels being 23½ inches and made of fine English steel. They are designed for 60grain with 400 grain bullets, the barrels weighing 7 lb and 11 oz, the total weight of the double being 13Ibs on the nose. The rifle, covered by a three-year warranty, cost Lord Selborne forty-one guineas, a sizeable amount of money at the time.

When I received the Cogswell & Harrison Certificate of Origin, it was dated 21 April 2009, one hundred and four years and five days after Lord Selborne took possession of his custom-built double rifle.

I now finally have my double rifle, a truly historic firearm. I am planning my next big game hunt and this firearm will be my back up. Adelino Serras Pires called me the other day and asked if I would consider parting with this new treasure. I replied that everything is for sale – at a price.

*+*+*+*

My new book, The .600 Nitro Express, is at the printer.

2009-08-17T09:22:00.001-08:00

Results of Sanford, NC Shoot

2009-08-17T09:00:00.007-08:00

Cal,

The event was held at Deep River Sporting Clays in Sanford, NC. It was on April 24th-26th. We shot LOTS of "soft" targets:)))) (Milk jugs and 5 gallon water pales and water balloons). Also shot paper targets which consisted of the Norma cape buffalo, moving leopard and bear.

The guns that showed up ranged from vintage BPE's to modern NE's. What I can remember are as follows:

500 BPE Holland hammer, extractor
470 Verney Carron (Demas), ejector
577 Verney Carron (Demas), ejector
45-70 Siace, ejector
8x57R Arrieta Sidelock ejector
577 BPE 3-1/4" Jeffery hammer, UL, heavy charge 7 dram 650gr
577 BPE 3" Alex Henry hammer, UL, Light charge rifle
577 BPE 3" Watson hammer, UL light charge rifle
450 #2 Famars/Champlin
10 Bore Holland Paradox
600NE Jeffery
9.3x74R German double. Do not remember the maker
450/400 3-1/4" BPE Woodward automatic

There might have been one or two more rifles that I have forgotten but this is the ones that I do remember.

Corbin

4-bore

2009-08-15T14:49:00.001-08:00

Look soon for some targets and more ballistics on the 4-bore.

What steps can I take to make sure I get the right rifle at the right price? (question from CalPappas.com)

2009-08-15T14:29:00.002-08:00

What steps can I take to make sure I get the right rifle at the right price?

Buying a Double Rifle

Cal: I read with interest your column on double rifles and my desire is growing to purchase one (or two). What steps can I take to make sure I get the right rifle at the right price?

Glad to hear from you. With more doubles being made and sold now than ever before this is important information for the first time buyer. Over the years I have developed a series of steps to make sure the rifle I buy is right for me. Here is what I do:

1. First, the rifle must appeal to me. This is each individual’s taste. For me, the rifle must be from the UK--either England or Scotland. European arms just don’t cut it for me. They are well made and an excellent value for the money, dependable, but the lines have never found favor with me, personally. Second is the caliber. This is based on what I want to do with the rifle: to collect to appreciate in value, to shoot at targets for pleasure, or to hunt. If bought for hunting then it need to determine just what critters I am to bring to bag. A small caliber such as .240 to .300 flanged for plains game, the all-around .375 or 450-400, the big game calibers of the .450 to .475, or the ultra powerful .500, .577, or .600. For shooting the smaller calibers are less punishing and for a collection the caliber does not matter except for rarity.

2. Next, I look at the price. Don’t bother with the “Blue Book of Gun Values”. The prices therein are outdated too fast and the double rifles are either so uncommon or so individual that setting a firm price is next to impossible. Do look, however, at past selling prices from auctions, Guns International or Guns America (on the web), the major sellers such as Champlin Arms, or the makers themselves. Remember the price rises with rarity and as the caliber increases. Trust me on this. I bought a .600 Wilkes a few months ago (as this is written 1-08). In identical condition but in .450-400 caliber, the price would have been 1/5 of what I paid for the .600. For what it is worth, a double that is priced too high today will be priced right tomorrow, and will be a bargain the day after that. If you want it, buy it!

3. Does the rifle come with a case (leather, canvas, or the best oak and leather), accessories in the case, ammunition, brass, reloading dies, etc.?Any or all of the above will add to the value of the rifle.

4. Can the owner provide a history of the rifle in question? A letter of origin from the factory is a good start. This will tell you if the rifle has had any alternations to it from the original specifications. Also, it is exciting to have the name of the original owner. If it is someone of note, the value will rise drastically. (Recently James Sutherland’s .577 double was sold at auction. The estimated price was $30,000. Because it was owned and documented by a famous hunter, it sold for well over $100,000)!

5. Targets and accuracy documentation should be provided. If not available from the owner, request a trial shoot during your inspection period. This is most important if you plan to shoot and or hunt with the rifle. If the rifle won’t regulate either load development or reregulation is the answer.

6. Refinish and overall condition. It is not blasphemy to refinish a double rifle as it is in the US to refinish a Colt or Winchester. If redone, it should have been documented by a competent gunsmith or firm. The only thing that can’t be fixed is the bore condition. If the bores are rusty or pitted, or just plain worn out, you have to live with it or have it rebored or sleeved. Other than that, everything can be repaired, touched up, etc. I look at the overall condition, check to see if the rifle is tight on the face, the hinge pin is solid, and the barrels ring true. A quick look can tell me about the stock finish, checkering, bluing, recoil pad, sights, etc... and a letter of origin can tell me if the current specifications are original. A quick look at the wood will tell me if it has been restocked. If restocked, the wood should be of a type of walnut period to the rifle as well as the lines and checkering. Last of all, I may ask to take the locks out to check for rust.

8. Does the rifle fit you? This is only important if you plan to shoot or hunt with the rifle. If the stock is too long, a short trim or a smaller recoil pad will solve the problem. It it is too short, a longer pad or extension will take care of that. If the fit is drastically off, a restock may be in question but this is expensive and takes away from the originality of the rifle. Of course, the original stock can be saved or a resale, too.

9. With all the above to your satisfaction, enter into negotiations. If similar doubles have been sold in the recent past, you can use those figures to bring the price down to a reasonable level. Don’t get too picky or stuck on one item that will cause you to miss the sale. I have seen rifles and shotguns in the five-figure price range remain unsold over an insignificant gripe. Don’t let a little thing get in the way. A rare double that you want to too valuable not to have for some insignificant detail.

Good shooting!

Tell me, do these big doubles you write of really kick as bad as some writers say they do? Richard M., UK (question from CalPappas.com)

2009-08-15T14:28:00.001-08:00

Tell me, do these big doubles you write of really kick as bad as some writers say they do? Richard M., UK

Richard:
I'm glad to answer this question as the topic has been biting the back of my brain for quite some time.

I guess the final straw came when I was taking a rare look at one of the many forums on firearm topics. What caught my eye was some discussion on the .600 nitro express. It was interesting to read of folks who wanted to own and/or shoot a .600. I am one of the lucky ones in that I own a vintage .600--a John Wilkes double rifle from 1914, best quality, with 26 inch barrels and a weight of 15 1/3 pounds. It is truly an honor to have one of these rare and powerful vintage rifles in my collection. Anyway, whilst reading the opinions, wants, and desires of the many writers I was taken back by something one writer had to say. You know the type. He knew it all, had done it all, and was the last word on the (any) subject. He had an absolutely stupid moniker--perhaps to keep his identity private. He said the recoil of a .600 would, "spin the shooter around 1/2 to 3/4 of a turn." How stupid and unknowing can one be? The heaviest recoil will push one back a step or two--it has happened to me shooting a 4-bore--but shooters are not mounted on a turntable. We don't spin when when we shoot. And so began a brief look into what folks write as to recoil perceptions and misperceptions.

I remember reading an old story about Ernest Hemingway bringing a friend to Griffin and Howe's New York showroom and shooting range to test fire a .577 double rifle. The story is that the recoil broke the man's shoulder. The same result was common when Hoffman Arms was producing the .505 Gibbs in its custom bolt action rifles in the years before WWII. In the current Cartridges of the World is one of the many rounds that only duplicate the ballistics of an already produced cartridge. The .510 nitro express is basically the 3 1/4 inch Sharps cartridge loaded with smokeless powder to match the ballistics of the .500 nitro express--a common British round. The write up reports the recoil was so severe that it "tore the forearm off." (Either the rifle was poorly made or all the English .500 nitro doubles suffered the same fate.) Another report of shooting the .600 nitro express caused the shooter's ears to bleed. Others needed a few days of rest to end the headache. Another he-man wrote the recoil loosened the fillings in his teeth. A fellow named Williamson wrote of shooting a raccoon out of a tree with a tiny .45-90 Winchester. The recoil was not mentioned by the rifle was so powerful that "there was not a body to fall out of the tree." I guess the rifle completely destroyed the animal.

The writers also go to the other end of the spectrum. Many shooters of the old days mentioned the .600's recoil not even being noticed when shooting at a game animal. The same when shooting the big 8 and 4 bores at game. Craig Boddington writes of shooting an 8 bore that the recoil is a 'healthy shove rather than a violent kick." (To see what a healthy shove is, click on calpappas.com and shooting the 4 bore in the double rifles section).

Anyway, forgive my rant, but the fact is the rifles do kick. If one is a shooter who's biggest shooting experience is a .30-06 they will kick a lot! But, if you are an experienced shooter who can comfortably shoot a .375 and .458 off the bench when sighting in a new scope you will be able to handle a .577 or .600 with no problem. The error I feel many make is to hold a big rifle in the manner a smaller caliber rifle or a shotgun is held. If the firearm just rests in your hand the recoil will be difficult to manage. Do this--grip the barrels very tight with the splinter fore end just resting on the palm of your hand. As you grip the barrels tightly to keep the barrels from leaving your hand upon ignition, also use the same hand to pull the rifle back to your shoulder as tight as you can. With the other hand, keep the trigger finger loose but grip the pistol grip very tight as well as use this hand to also pull the rifle tight against the shoulder. Your aim will be very steady and the barrels won't rise more than a few inches.

One exception, heavy black powder loads under heavy lead bullets in the larger bore rifles will kick hard no matter what you do. But, If you follow the above suggestions, at least the expensive rifle will not fly out of your hands! Las to fall, make sure the pull of the stock fits. Too short and you will get a bloody nose. Too long and the rifle will be difficult to shoulder.

Good shooting
Cal

What is your side of the single vs. double trigger argument? Harold Nick N., USA (question from CalPappas.com)

2009-08-11T14:27:00.000-08:00

What is your side of the single vs. double trigger argument? Harold Nick N., USA

Nick:
I would imagine this question goes as far back as the first rifle or shotgun with twin tubes. There is prabably no right or wrong answer but John Taylor had it right in the end when he suggested all your rifles be of the same style. Excellent suggestion from Taylor’s era and mindset of a professional hunter and sound wisdom today but, perhaps, not such a necessity as few of us will ever be in a life or death situation.

The thought behind a single trigger is, of course, a quicker second shot. Double rifles are quick for the second shot and even more quick if one does not have to adjust the trigger finger. How much time is saved? A fraction of a second at most. And, single triggers look nice and are a higher refinement of the double rifle’s mechanism. James Sutherland, who hunted with a pair of Westley Richards’s single trigger .577s wrote that the mechanism never failed to shoot the second barrel--they were perfectly reliable. A friend in Alaska just sold Andy Anderson’s single trigger Westley and agrees with Sutherland--never a problem.

In the vintage years when hunters in the Dark Continent were literally months away from a gunsmith, having two triggers, and thereby two separate rifles, could be a life saver if one trigger or lock failed to operate. If one failed, the hunter still had a single shot rifle. Not so with a single trigger. A failure and the entire rifle is negated to a boat anchor.

Today, we don’t hunt for ivory to make a living and our lives are not in jeopardy on our African hunt. With this, most rifles are in collections and used only occasionally. Having a combination of double and single trigger rifles will make for a complete collection. As for me personally, I prefer the double trigger as it looks more traditional but, given the right rifle, the right caliber, at the right price, a single trigger would be welcome in my gun safe at any time!

Good shooting,

Cal

Why were double rifles so popular in the old days when single shot and early bolt rifles were so much less expensive? Ed G., USA (question from CalPap

2009-08-09T14:26:00.000-08:00

Why were double rifles so popular in the old days when single shot and early bolt rifles were so much less expensive? Ed G., USA

You are thinking on this one, Ed. I believe the reason is four-fold. First, is the instant second shot that could save one’s life.The hunters of old did not take their first shot at 300 yards. They waited until the critter was close, too close maybe, by today’s standards. The second shot would be taken when the enraged animal was at one’s feet. A quick, 100% reliable, second shot was needed and there usually was no time for a third.

Second, with two separate locks the double rifle is actually two single shot rifles joined together. If one failed to operate through wear or accident the other was ready to go. Single barrels rifles (and single trigger doubles) don’t have this advantage.

Third, is the balance and quick pointing nature of a fine double rifle. They shoulder and point quicker than any single barreled weapon. Try it sometime with a double that fits you. Close your eyes and shoulder the rifle. When you open your eyes you will be on sight and ready to shoot. When you need a quick snap shot, there is nothing like a double--then or now.

Last of all, it was double rifles (and some singles, too) that were made for big game cartridges. The early repeaters and many single shots were mostly made for smaller, military-style cartridges. Many single shots were also target rifles. And, these too, shot cartridges that were not elephant stoppers. The largest of the Winchester repeating lever actions were the 50 express calibers. At best they were 1/2 to 2/3 of the .500x3 inch black powder express in energy, lead, and gun powder. If you wanted to hunt big game--you bought a double. And so it should be!

Good shooting,

Cal

Why did some seemingly excellent double rifle cartridges fail to become popular? (question from CalPappas.com)

2009-08-05T14:25:00.000-08:00

Why did some seemingly excellent double rifle cartridges fail to become popular such as the .360no2, .369, .475, .476, and .600 (to name a few)? Josiah H., USA

Josiah:
I’ve often wondered this myself--we must be on the same wave length--why so many good and great cartridges failed to make the grade. I can think of a few reasons and I’m sure there are more.

First, is that another cartridge came along earlier and stole the show, so to speak. When the .475 nitro came along there were already several choices within that balllistic window to choose from.

Second, is that the later cartridge duplicated the ballistics of an earlier one. If it were not for England’s ban on the .450 caliber in the Sudan and India, the world would probably have been content with the three .450s. The .465 to .476 duplicated what the .450s did and were perfectly useable in Africa and the rest of Asia after the English ban.

Third, a great cartridge that people wanted was not released to the trade. So, if one wanted that caliber, they only had the choice of that maker’s rifles.The best expample that comes to mind is the .476 Westley Richards. Elmer Keith loved this one and with its 520 grain bullet was just a bit more ballistically than its cousins--but not enough to make one bit of difference. To the best of my knowledge, it was a Westley Richards proprietary cartridge. I have never seen of a .476 by a maker other than WR.

Last of all, the rifles may have been too expensive. A fellow who wanted a .465 Holland may have had only a .450 Army and Navy budget to work with. I guess this is certinaly true today in the double rifle market--both new and used.

Today, these seemingly unpopular cartridges work just fine and are sought after by collectors because of their rarity. Rarity may drive up the price a bit but, on the other hand, may keep the price low. A friend just bought a .475 Rodda for approximately 2/3 of the value. If it was a .470 the rifle would have fetched 1/3 more. Any differnce ballistically between the two? None. But today’s market favors the .470 and it was to my friend’s benefit. Also, with brass and bullets available today there is no reason to decline a purchase of a rare caliber.

Good shooting,

Cal

Why are so few doubles in use in Africa today? Phil A., USA (question from CalPappas.com)

2009-08-04T14:24:00.000-08:00

Why are so few doubles in use in Africa today? Phil A., USA

Phil:
I love to see doubles at work in Africa and would love to see more of them. However, I doubt that will change unless the lower priced doubles from the continent become more popular. First of all is the expense of a vintage or modern English double. I know it may surprise some of us, but today’s PHs are not the highest paid professionals in the working world. The average PH‘s wage in Zimbabwe is US$150 per day and up to $225 per day if he has and maintains his own vehicle. Even by African standards and the cost of living there being low, it would take a long, long time to save up for a good double.

With the above, is the chance of theft or confiscation in Africa. Add to that is the chance of theft whilst flying between African airports and then charter flights. Now, don’t misunderstand me, I’m definately not saying it is dangerous to fly with a double but, when you do it all the time, year in and year out, the chances of loss increase.

The value of a double, added to cost of repairs, may make it a poor choice for a working rifle in Africa where the rifle may not be treated with the tender, loving care it deserves. Gunsmiths, I mean qualfied gunsmiths, are few and far between in Africa and the choice of a bolt rifle makes more sense. Also, ammunition availability is easer to come by and is less expensive with most bolt action calibers than with double rifle calibers.

Added to the above, is the fact that many PHs have a member of their African camp staff clean and care for their rifles. Some may have a staff member carry their rifles when in the bush. The average worker does not know the value of a rifle ‘with two pipes’ and may treat it a bit rough.

Last of all, is the increased magazine capacity of a bolt rifle. It may make many modern hunters feel a bit more secure knowing they have four or more cartridges in reserve. Especially when backing up a cllient with little or no experience.

Good shooting,

Cal

What would be recommended reading for an introduction to the world of double rifles? (question from CalPappas.com)

2009-08-04T14:23:00.000-08:00

What would be recommended reading for an introduction to the world of double rifles? I would like to learn of the history, early users, and some good technical data as well as hunting and shooting stories. Gerry W., Zimbabwe

Gerry:
As far as magazines go, the Double Gun Journal now includes single shots so coverage is limited to perhaps one article on double rifles per issue. The African Hunter is the only African journal that publishes a regular column on double rifles. And, where do double rifles really belong? In a magazine about Africa, from Africa! The gereric hunting magazines from the States have the occasional article to keep a few readers happy but not on a regular basis. (Personally, I have little interest in reading opinions that are not backed up be personal experience. If you are going to write about a .600 or an 8-bore, own one and shoot it. Often!).

As to books, The Hammerless Double Rifle by Alexander Gray is an excellent source to see how a double is put together. Graeme Wright’s, Shooting the British Double Rifle is the best book for learning how to shoot a double rifle successfully. It is the ‘Bible’ on the subject.(In my opnion, it is a waste to have a nice double in the safe and do nothing with it. Shooting it is the next step and then hunting with one is the zentih of ownership). Craig Boddington’s Safari Rifles provides an excellent look at caliber and rifle selection and is a modern update to John Taylor’s African Rifles and Cartridges. Taylor’s book is the best of the vintage texts on the subject and Taylor is quoted more than any other writer.

Most hunting books are stories of the hunt as most hunters don’t seem to be riflemen. James Sutherland is an exception and his book The Adventures of an Elehant Hutner is an excellelnt story of his exploits with a .577 Westley Richards. S.R. Truesdale's The Rifle is acomposite of old and new hunters (up to WWII) and what were their rifle choices. Lots of good double info here. Greener's The Rfile and its Development is the best technical book on the subject with lots of double rifle info in it.

I hope this helps, good shooting,

Cal

What are the sight options on double rifles? Hugh A. USA (question from CalPappas.com)

2009-08-04T14:22:00.000-08:00

What are the sight options on double rifles? Hugh A. USA

Hugh:
If you are asking this question, then a double is in your future! Sights on a double can be as simple or as complex as one wants. No matter what type of sight is chosen, always remember the range limitations of a double rifle.

Your basic choices for a rear sight are: leaf, both fixed and multiple leaves, peep or aperature, and telescope. The leaf sights are traditional albeit a bit optimistic. Most rifles in the big game category had one fixed sight for 100 yards and two folding leaves for 200 and 300 yards. In all of my doube rifle shooting, I have yet to use anything but the first leaf. (I once saw a Boswell (or Bonehill?) .577 bpe with leaves to 500 yards and a tangent to 1200 yards)! The advantage of the leaf sight with a wide, shallow V is that it is quick to get on target, nearly indestructable, and looks so at home on a double. A disadvantage that has risen its head several times in literature is that the folding leaves tend to pop up when not needed and cause the shot to fly high.

The peep or aprature sight, so common on the Winchester and other American lever actions and early bolt actions (such as those made by Griffin and Howe), is perhaps the qucikest sight to place on target accurately. The eye naturally centers the object to be shot at in the center of the circle. The eye only needs to focus on the front bead and the target--not the bead, target, and rear sight. A major disadvantage of the peep sight on a double rifle is that has to be mounted close to the eye thereby interfearing with the top lever. On hammer doubles, the sight was too close to, and between, the hammers and interefered with the manual cocking of the hammers. A minor complaint is that the peep can fill with dirt or other debries at the most inopertune time.

The telescope sight. Well I’m a bit torn on this one. A ‘scope looks out of place on a double, at least for me. And, they are not needed on the larger calibers (.450 and up) used for hunting dangerous game--the shots are too close and the brush too thick. However, on smaller callibers (.450-400 and down) they are a definate help for failing or old eyes (such as the pair I own). I have a Swarvoski 1 1/4-4x on my .450-400 Harrison and Hussey boxlock ejector and took a hippo, croc, leopard and lion in Tanzania with it, a sable in Zim, numerous plains game in South Africa, and game in Alaska. The scope was not needed on the hippo but that is the rile I had in my hands. For the lion and croc it was an advantage. The leopard would not have been shot without the scope. The light was on its last and I could not see Mr. Spots until I looked through the scope. The clear picture and light gathering qualities of a good scope are a plus. On the negative side is the added weight, a ‘scope alters the balance, the non-traditional looks, the delicate nature of the ‘scope, and the shooter has to hold his cheek high off the stock to get a proper sight picture. Last of all, add a ‘scope to a double and the bullet placement may change and re-regulation will be needed.

In conclusion and on a personal note, if a ‘scope must be mounted on a double rifle, purchase a German or Austrian ‘scope. The light gathering quallities are far superior to anything else on the market and they look the best on a fine English double rifle.

Good shooting,
Cal

What is the best and safest way to transport a double rifle to Africa for a hunt? Greg H., USA (question from CalPappas.com)

2009-08-04T14:21:00.000-08:00

What is the best and safest way to transport a double rifle to Africa for a hunt? Greg H., USA

Dear Greg:
The best thing, above all else, is to insure your double rifles against theft, loss, or damage. You can shop around for the best rates but I would suggest you Google Eastern Insurance as they have the fewest exclusions and the best rates I have found.

After a good insurance policy, you MUST obtain form 4457 from a US Customs office. A few years ago it used to be a good idea to use this form as proof you owned the rifles before you departed on your journey. (Actually, use the 4457 for anything with a serial number--scopes, binocs, cameras, etc.). Now, it is mandatory to have this form when you re-enter this country and many African countries, as well as countries you transit through, require this form as proof of legal ownership.

Take detailed photos and carry copies of these with you. In fact, carry copies of all of your hunting paperwork in each of your bags and the originals on your person. (If you loose your passport you’re in trouble, if you have a copy of it you will find life easier to tolerate when visiting the embassy to get a replacement).

Follow all laws and regulations to the letter-- I mean dot every i and cross every t-- for the airlines, TSA, airport procedures, and, most of all, when you are in a foreign country. Don’t argue with anyone even if you know they are wrong. Just smile and be very polite! Calmly ask for their supervisor if you must. Keep your ammunition locked in a small hard case and in a separate luggage bag from your rifle. Don’t even think of traveling with black powder cartridges. Don’t take ammo other than what your rifle(s) is chambered for (no ammo gifts for your PH). And, your ammo’s headstamp must match the rifle’s (i.e. no reformed cases). Don’t put snap caps in a double rifle or shotgun (the unknowing will absolutely jump out of their skin if they see a snap cap in a chamber). Buy the best hard case you can and put your rifle in a padded soft case within the hard case. Have a replacement locking mechanism along (extra lock and key or SKB replaceable locks). Carry cleaning implements with you (no spray oil--take a squeeze bottle).

Try to attract as little attention as possible. By this I mean don’t advertise you are a hunter by your clothes or loud talk. There are plenty on antis out there who love to make life difficult for a hunter. (One of which I have personal experience works in the permit office in Amsterdam. He stated to me each week for six consecutive weeks my permit was on the way. After speaking to the director, I received my permit pronto). It may be a good idea to pack your break-down double in a short hard case and put this case in a duffel bag. Or, put your guncase in a large hockey player’s gear bag. If you are going to return with wood or stone carvings, bring along some bubble wrap and, on the way over, use the bubble wrap around your rifle(s).

If you have a long layover, you can claim and recheck your luggage. This way you will know if it is there and if not, you can trace it from your last point of departure.

Last of all, it has become common in South Africa for criminals within the airport to use an icepick to open the zippers of a locked bag and steal items. It may be better to travel with two locking cases without zippers. If this happens don't expect any assistance from South African Air!

I hope this helps. Good shooting,
Cal

What makes a double rifle famous or deseriable over others, thereby increasing its value? D. Karjala, USA (question from CalPappas.com)

2009-08-01T14:20:00.000-08:00

What makes a double rifle famous or deseriable over others, thereby increasing its value? D. Karjala, USA

Dear D.

I can think of three things that increse a vintage rifle’s value: a famous owner, a letter of origin that substantiates the original specifications, and a documented history of use.

From personal experience, a few examples. I once owned a hammer under lever light nitro rifle in the rare caliber 20-.577. This, an invention of Alexander Henry, was the 20 gauge brass shotshell 2 3/4 inches long and necked down to accept a .577 bullet. My rifle was originally made by John Dickson as a 12 bore rifle in the 1860s. In 1900 it was rebarrelled by Alex Henry and purchased by Malcolm McNeill. McNeill had a career in the army and was the recipient of numerous awards. He was also a noted big game hunter, had a museum in his home town of Oban, Scotland, for his trophies, and wrote of his hunting adventures in Somaliland in 1902. He killed a pair of man-eating lions with the .20-.577. He was one of the fifty + sportsmen who chipped in some pounds sterling and donated the .500-450 Holland and Holland to Teddy Roosevelt and is mentioned in TR’s African Game Trails. There you have it--an original owner of notariety. (Did I write I ONCE owned it? Damn!)

If your double rifle was made by a current maker, it is most likely you can get a letter of origin. The letter will state the serial number, stock dimensions, barrel length, weight, sight specifications, extractor or ejector, caliber, and cordite regulation. It may also give the name and address of the original owner. This letter will tell you if the rile of your dreams is to original specifications or if it has been altered in any way. Some records are not available due to WWII bombing or perhaps the company went out of business.

With luck, you may be able to trace the life of the rifle if you know the original owner or, at least, an owner of the rifle’s early years. My .450 no2 was owned by an army officer who left the military to farm in Kenya. He became a professional hunter with White Hunters Africa. Between the letter of origin from Joseph Lang and his biography from the Scottish Military Museum I am able to trace the rifle from its making in 1904 to when it left Kenya in the 1950s to be returned to the factory for repairs and alterations.

A friend owned a .577 single trigger Westley Richards drop lock double rifle. At my suggestion he wrote for a letter and discovered his rifle was owned by Andy Anderson, an elephant hunter of some fame and a friend of James Sutherland. His hunting exploits are documented in his book and he is also mentioned in Sutherland’s work.

The above adds a romance to owning a fine double rifle--a romance that a new rifle can’t have.

Good shooting,

Cal

How far do double rifles go back in history? Ed D., USA (question from CalPappas.com)

2009-08-01T14:19:00.000-08:00

How far do double rifles go back in history? Ed D., USA

Ed:
This will be a quick answer as most of the history of the double rifle is beyond me. I mentioned to Editor Heath I would share all of the questions and answers with him. I hope he does not fire me when he sees how little I know about this topic! That said, a close friend here in Alaska has a marvelous collection of double rifles including several flintlock doubles. Then, of course, was the natural progression to caplock or percussion.

I do know that in order to double the firepower in the muzzle-stuffing days that a second barrel was the only way to go. I do not know if the twin tube design went as far back as the wheel lock and the match lock. I have seen only side-by-side double rifles in flint lock and cap lock. I do not know if an over and under doubles were produced in this early period. (I just learned of a percussion double in .600 by Greener!)

Good shooting,

Cal

Can I (we) see some of the double rifles you write about, please? Ron W., USA (question from CalPappas.com)

2009-07-29T14:18:00.000-08:00

Can I (we) see some of the double rifles you write about, please? Ron W., USA

Ron:
At present I own only five. I have sold my .450, .500, and a 20-.577 and, of course, all my single barrel weapons. My rifles now are a .450-400 Harrison and Hussey boxlock ejector, with 26 inch barrels, and a Swarovski 1 1/4-4x scope to assist my ailing eyes. This is my primary hunting rifle and has taken lion, leopard, hippo, croc, sable, many plains game, buffalo in Australia, and caribou here in Alaska.

My other hunting rifle is a best quality Joseph Lang .450 no2. Originally it was a 28-inch barrelled, ejector, three leaf rear sight, and automatic safety. Fully engraved, it is a beauty! In 1956 the rifle was returned to the maker for repairs and alterations. When I purchased the rifle, the rear sight was a single leaf, the safety was manual, and the ejectors were changed to extractors (a preference of many PHs).

My .600 is a John Wilkes best quality, 26 inch barrels, extractor, three leat rear sight and a bead with flip up ‘moon’ front sight. The regualtion is for the heavy 110 grain charge of cordite. Recoil is a bit stiff even at 15 1/3 pounds.

My two bore rifles are a rather plain Walter Locke 7-bore with 24 inch barrels, weight of 17 pounds and is a hammer, under lever. The other is an Alex Henry 8-bore, best quality with 23 inch barrrels and weighs 15 1/2 pounds. It, too, is a hammer under lever rifle. The rear sight is set back to the breech as specified by the original owner in 1883.

All of my rifles are in a case with accessories and I shoot them several times per week in the shooting season at my home in Alaska--April thru September. I hunt with the three boxlocks each season at home and also in Africa each year. They are great fun!

Enjoy the photos and good shooting!

Cal

What got you interested in double rifles and Africa? Mike M., USA (question from CalPappas.com)

2009-07-22T14:17:00.000-08:00

What got you interested in double rifles and Africa? Mike M., USA

Mike:
I’ve got to do some soul searching for this one...it’s been such a long time. I guess my first exposure to Africa, and to a lesser extent, double rifles, would be old movies such as Hatari (John Wayne) and King Solomon’s Mines (Stewart Granger). At the same time period of my life I would be looking at and reading my mother’s books on African hunting. Sounds a bit strange, doesn’t it? But my mom was an artist in her younger years (1930-40s) and loved to paint animals...including African animals. At the time her only source of photos was in books by Hunter, Bell, Taylor, and others. I read and re-read the old classics without knowing how my later life would be influenced so. Today, these first editions are in a special place upon my bookshelf.

With the above in my memory banks, and like most kids of the 60s and early 70s, I liked guns, shooting and hunting. During the spring semester of my 11th grade year in high school, mom shelled out $3.95 for a copy of the 1972 Guns and Ammo Annual. Photos of 8 bores, .600 and .577 rifles and cartridges, Elmer Keith on elephants, an article on Selous, an article on the .577 Snyder handguns, etc...I still have the book and it is still looked at but now is held together with clear tape.

Last of all, in the late 1980s in Alaska, I dated an artist who had a copy of Bartel Bull’s book Safari: a Chronicle of Adventure. In this most excellent book I read a detailed accoount of the African safari and hunters from the early 1800s to the 1980s.It was also at this time I purchased my first double rifle, a Mortimer and Son .500bpe number 5280. A few years later, 1994, I booked my first hunt to Zimbabwe (the year the African Hunter was launched).

I was bitten and had the fever!

Good shooting,

Cal

At my cabin in south central Alaska on July 22, 2009, with my new Hughes 4-bore and the .600 Wilkes.

2009-07-22T06:03:00.000-08:00

Exactly what came in the original cases with double rifles? (question from CalPappas.com)

2009-07-21T14:15:00.000-08:00

Exactly what came in the original cases with double rifles? Ed J., USA

Ed:
It is great finding a vintage double rifle in its original case and even more of a treat to open the case and see an assortment or original tools and accessories there. What came in a case largely depended on what the owner was to do and where he was to go. Accessories can be broken down into five categories: cleaning, repair, reloading, telescope and sighting, and miscellaneous.

Cleaning. Every cased rifle or gun was equipped with cleaning implements. Included in the case were a cleaning rod, various tips including a jag, slot, brush and mop. An oil bottle was a necessity, too. Last of all was a grease pot and wiping rag.

Repair. For general repair a set of turn screws fitted for each of the screw slots, a firing pin wrench (called a striker key across the pond) for hammer rifles and guns, and a firing pin removal tool for the hammerless. Usually included was a spare set of strikers. Perhaps a set of main springs or a compete set of locks for the finer arms, also.

Reloading: I am talking cartridge arms, here, and included a capper and decapper, powder measure, bullet mould in the lead bullet days, bullet seater and maybe a crimping tool.

Telescope and sights. If a scope was fitted to the rifle and also to the case, then a set of turnscrews for installation and adjustment and perhaps an extra set of mounts. Scope caps or covers were also fitted to the scope. Many double rifles had an extra fore sight in a small wooden or brass box.

Accessories could include, but not limited to, snap caps, cordite funnel, broken cartriddge extractor, extra scews, sling, ammunition compartment, bullets, primers, factory load data (called a charge card) and targets.

Replacement accessories can be made new by many craftsmen today and most dealers have a supply of vintage items in their back rooms and they will include some in a case to make a sale.

Good shooting,

Cal

Why are not todays super magnums used in modern doubles (or rechambered to older doubles)? (question from www.CalPappas.com)

2009-07-18T14:12:00.000-08:00

Why are not todays super magnums used in modern doubles (or rechambered to older doubles)? Gary Hopkins, PH, Zimbawe

Gary:
It is always good to take a question from my friend and PH!

Today’s fascination is with cartridges that hit harder and go faster so it may be a surprise to many that more are not seen in double rifles of modern manufacture or rebarreled or re-chambered in vintage rifles. However, there are five problems with this. First, the mentallity of the super magnum desire is to reach out and shoot one’s elk, or sheep, or antelope at 700 yards. Anything beyond 150 yards is stretching it for the double rifle due the regulation complexities. No matter how optimistic the folding sight leaves say the range may be, double rifles are not long range rifles by any means.

Seond, is the muzzle blast and how it affects shooters. The higher velcoity of modern magnums gave rise to the muzzle brake or porting of some sort. Neither is conducive to accuracy in a double rifle. Besides being down-right ugly (author’s opinion) and as far from traditional as one can imagine, muzzle brakes would destroy regulated accuracy. Also and third, they are death to the ears of those in close proximity. In fact, many PHs in Africa will not allow their hunters to shoot with a brake.

Number four, is the pressure in the modern magnums are too high for most doubles. Many cartridges have a pressure of 60,000psi whereas some of the larger nitro cartridges are half that or less. Remember the British used the larger cartridges to achieve lower chamber pressure in the heat of Africa and India (cordite was very hear sensitive). The double rifle action is far weaker than a bolt rifle and high pressures casue difficulty in opening the action after discharge.

With the above, and last on the list, is extraction difficulties. High pressure makes extraction more dificult and ejectors can tear through the thin rim if the cartridges sticks in the chambers. And,today’s magnums are of a rimless design and rimmed cartridges work best in double rifles.

I guess I should add anoher. The forte’ of a double rifle is dangerous game hunting. Most high velocity magnums are for long range shooting and use light weight bullets. 500, 570, 750, and 900 grain bullets are for close up work and not for shooting across a canyon in the southwestern USA. A double is for quick, snap shots at critters that can hit back and, no matter what Roy and others say, I would rather have a 500 grain bullet at 2150fps (or a 900 grains at 1950!) rather than a 180 grain bullet at 3600fps. ‘Nuff said!

Good shooting,
Cal

I have always understood that one never should shoot a monometal, or monolithic, solid in a double rifle. Why is this? (question from CalPappas.com)

2009-07-16T14:08:00.000-08:00

Dear Cal:
It was good to talk to you at the SCI convention. It took awhile to put two and two together and realize you were the same guy who writes the Doubles Column for the African Hunter magazine. When we were taking you had some Barnes monometal solid bullets in your hand and were planning to run tests on them. I have always understood that one never should shoot a monometal, or monolithic, solid in a double rifle. Why is this and what will they do to a double?
Don M.
Las Vegas

Don:
Greetings from Alaska. I remember our discussion well.
I arrived home to a fairly comfortable -10 and went to the shooting range. In my memory were all the fairy tales I, too, was told of monometal bullets. Some of the stories I remember was that the barrels will "blow up," the rifling will be seen on the outside of the barrel, and (my favorite) the rifling lands will actually come out of the muzzle! (I also recalled the stories about Damascus-barreled guns and rifles and how they will blow up is shot with smokeless power.)
I had to break many years of nearsightedness and use some logic to think. What could cause a barrel to "blow up?" Oversized bullet diameter is one. Too much powder or a powder that is too fast for the cartridge are two more. Too much bullet weight is a forth. Any of these will cause higher than normal pressures and will perhaps cause a barrel to burst. (That is why the Brits had their proof house to show a rifle or shotgun was safe to shoot after it was tested with a higher than normal charge of powder and lead.)
All of the above is true. In addition a barrel that has been weakened by pits, rust, a crack in the steel, or if the barrels are too thin will also cause bursting. But (and this is the logic part) ANY barrel shot with one or more of the above conditions in place could cause bursting.
On the flip side, if your bullet (monometal, lead, or jacketed) fits the bore of the rifle, if its weight is correct, if the powder is of the correct type and charge, if the rifle is in sound condition, and if the velocity is to original specifications, how could anything go wrong?
With that in mind, I shoveled the snow off my standing rest at my 50-yard range and set up some targets in the stand. I must admit I was a bit nervous from all that I had been told and began by shooting two bullets at a low 1000 fps after checking he bullet's measurements against the bore and chamber cast of my vintage John Wilkes .600 nitro express.
No problems. Two more with the same results. Then, four shots with lead bullets, four with Woodleighs, and four with Barnes banded monometal. I gradually worked up in velocity to the regulated 1900 fps. With the three bullets the targets were about the same. The rifle's recoil seemed to feel the same. The action opened as easy with all three. And, the rifling lands remained in the barrel.
Now, a word on mono-bullet types. There are three basic types of monometal bullets I know of. The first to come along was a turned solid, of brass or bronze (I'm not much into metal specifics). These bullets generated the highest pressures as the shaft of the bullet was in complete contact with the bore. The banded solids (such as produced by Barnes) are turned .002-inch undersize and the bands allow for less of the bullet to come in contact with the bore of the rifle. Also, the bands allow displaced metal to flow into them--something the solid-shaft turned bullets do not allow for. Last of all, and a relatively new design, are the banded bullets with many smaller bands--or grooves--cut into the bullet.
The only problem I have with any monometal bullet is the non-traditional look of the nose. I did not have any problem with the shooting but understand I only shot less than two boxes with my rifle only. I took careful measurements and would not have shot them if the bullets did not match the bore. I understand the solid-sided monometal bullets will generate higher pressure than the banded solids. I do not have any experience with these bullet types.
And, I also shoot my Damascus-barreled guns and rifles, too!
Good shooting,
Cal

I am interested in purchasing four-bore ammo loaded or just brass (question from CalPappas.com)

2009-07-15T13:52:00.000-08:00

Sir,
I am interested in purchasing four-bore ammo loaded or just brass, I am looking for 1 or 2 rounds.
Any help for be appreciated.
Sincerely,
Don C.

Don:
Thanks for your question. I've owned a 4-bore double shotgun in the past and just closed the deal on a 4-bore double rifle by R. Hughes. I have about 35-40 rounds of new-production brass that I bought from Rocky Mountain Cartridge (they are on the web). I believe the cost is now about $25 per round. I also have some vintage cartridges in my small collection. I bought an original Greener for nearly $500. It is not for sale, but I wanted you to get an idea of prices of the old stuff. Just for your shelf, calling RMC is your best bet.
Good shooting,

Cal