Bolt Guns are Better than Doubles?

[grand veneur]

Ultimately it's hard to decide what is better and what is not. I would like to hunt like in the past as when there was gun bearers and then I would take everything that would be needed given the circumstances.

 

[Luvthunt]

Based on many years of upland bird hunting with a double shotgun there is no way a bolt gun is as fast for the second shot as a double rifle/ shotgun.

Not based on one + opportunity a year but many many opportunities each year to use the second barrel.

 

[grand veneur]

Absolutely sure, but how often does a client in Africa need such a quick second shot ?

If you make a backup it may look different, but that is mainly reserved for the PH, rarely for other hunters.

 

[375er]

No bolt action can replace the quick second shot of a double. It is probably a rare occasion for a client hunter to need that quick second shot. But I can attest to the fact it can happen. The picture below was taken immediately after I was mauled by a buffalo. My rifle is under the buffalo with the bolt back. He hit me as as I was frantically trying to cycle the action for a second shot.

View attachment 633953

Holy crap!! Love to hear more of the story.

 

[Pondoro]

Absolutely sure, but how often does a client in Africa need such a quick second shot ?

If you make a backup it may look different, but that is mainly reserved for the PH, rarely for other hunters.

Well..I can think of elephant hunting..wich is usually done at very close distance.. The same apply to any dangerous game that are prone to attack..

 

[Mark Biggerstaff]

Would I love to own a double for my first Tuskless hunt I have planned. Yes who wouldn't. But I, like others, just can't justify it. I have a wonderful CZ AHR 458 Lott that has taken 4 buff bulls and 3 cows plus plains game. I will use it loaded with Swift Breakaway Solids. I have both a 1-6 Leupold and Trijicon SRO in QD mounts. Instead of a double purchase I will be able to add maybe a second tuskless if there is still quota available.

I do agree tho, a double is faster for a second shot if needed fast.