Bruce, I don't think that this is something that I can suggest to you. You have to go with your heart. Once it becomes a nice to have, it makes the decision a lot more difficult. If you're going to be working with it, then other factors comes into play.
To tell you the truth, I would have much rather bought a used rifle over a new one and nothing to do with the price. I wanted one where the blue on the barrels had been carried off, that the stock, although in good condition, already had stories attached to it. The only one that I could get was this new one.
I went with the Merkel 500N.E for three reasons. 1) The Germans don't build crap, and the Merkel is in that "working rifle" price range, much like the CZ. Great quality just before you get that big jump in price.
2) I got the last one in the country, imported at the old Forex rate.
3) I was looking for a .470 for two years, but heard enough stories about the difference in knock down effect that the .500 holds over the .470. Yes, I know you have to put the bullet in the right place and all that, but stories about the effect on the animals from these two rifles when the shot was not in the right place. The difference being a second or two extra time to make sure of your second shot.
I looked at the Sabatti, because they are really affordable. I'm not entirely sure that I trust their actions. I have heard some stories about some of their rifles from a few who have them. I think there is a thread somewhere on AH as well. Rather wait a little bit longer, and get yourself what you really want. You're going to be looking at it a lot, and especially if it's a nice to have, going with something that does not make your stomach flutter, just won't cut it.
