If you were to buy a semi-custom African hunting rifle…

[Jefferry404]

Wanting to get a sense of where the folks might be on this.
Since there are a number of CZ550 magnum actions floating around, what would be the cartridge of choice?
My thinking is 416 Rigby. Nicely fits that large action, components available, lots of history in Africa.
375 HH or 416 Remington or 450 Lott but these can be done on Model 70 or aghast, Rem 700 actions
And seems a waste of the cz550.
This rifle would be an African Classic, wood stocked with all the trimmings (quarter rib, banded sling and front sight, drop floorplate, trapdoor gripcap, etc)
So what say you?
Thanks
Steve

 

[Fatback]

404Jeffery is about as classic of an African cartridge as there is, right along with the Rigby. Don’t think you could go wrong with either choice.

 

[BeeMaa]

Depends on what you already have.

Jumping to a .400+ caliber is a big step for most NA big game hunters who haven't experienced anything above .30 caliber magnum recoil. For a first step into a DG capable rifle, the .375 caliber (H&H, RUGER...etc) mid-bore is the gatekeeper to the big bores above .400.

However some have jumped directly to a 416 (RM, RUGER, RIGBY...etc) with good success. It just depends on the person.

Also depends on what you envision for future hunting plans. Only going on a couple of DG hunts, maybe stay with 404J and below. Plan on several elephant and buffalo, might want to look at the .458 caliber group or above.

Next thing is budget. Custom building a CZ550 and getting it to cycle properly, good trigger, 3-position safety, nice piece of timber stock...it starts to add up. I wouldn't be surprised to find this in the $5K and above range. Hell, I know guys who've spent that much on just the stock blank.

Other options. Used complete rifles are out there, but you have to keep your eyes peeled. Have the cash ready to go and don't hesitate when the deal you are looking for comes along. Rifles like the Kimber Caprivi or Talketna, Dakota 76 African or Safari, Heym Martini Express, Blaser R8 (c'mon guys, you knew I was going to throw that one in) and rifles from SAKO are equal to the task. I know I'm missing several, but you get the point. Used ones are out there.

In short, there is no RIGHT answer for everyone. Just what's right for you. Make sure you get EXACTLY what you are looking for. There will be nothing worse than looking down at your kit and being reminded of what you SHOULD have bought. Buy once, cry once.