New rifle advice

[Blainer]

hi guys, I am in the early planning stages of my first trip to Africa, and i figure its time to get a new rifle for the Big 5. I have read alot of info on the CZ550 rifles, and they seem to be a really nice affordable option. The other rifle that i am very interested in is the new Winchester model 70 Safari Express. Has anyone had the Winchester? Are there any pros and cons vs the CZ? I can afford a more expensive rifle, but i would prefer to get a more affordable rifle so i can hunt more animals while in Africa. I am also curious if most poeple use detachable rings so they can quickly remove thiier scope for close up bush work? Do you have to worry about the scope not returning to zero after re-attaching it?

I have found the CZ for around $1240cad and the Winchester for $1225cad, do you think these are reasonable prices? Does anyone know of a better deal to be found in Canada? thanks for all your help.

 

[Rod Smith]

Hi.

I own 3 Winchester Model 70's, a pre '64, a post '64 and a new claw extractor "Classic Super Express" I have had no problems with them or the numerous ones brought on Safari by the guys I have guided, they generally shoot really well too. I have friends who own the CZs and since they have started to finish the actions a lot better at the factory they are good rifles too, I prefer the 3 position safety on the bolt of the Winchester and the straighter stock configuration (less drop at heel) so recoil is more into your shoulder rather than jumping up into your face(as is the case with most European stocks). This stock format also lets your cheek rest on the stock when using a scope whereas some of the European stocks do not and are very uncomfortable to shoot with a scope. I am not sure if the CZs being sold in North America have different stocks to the European, but this would be a major factor in deciding for me.

There are very reliable detachable scope rings available that do not change zero when taken on and off, it is a good idea to install them as you never know what situations can arise and it is best to be prepared for anything.

Regards.

 

[Skyline]

Blainer........what Rod Smith says about the CZ's has been my experience as well. If you have looked around though you will see that we have different stock configurations with the American versions.......they have a straight comb. Also CZ USA is turning out CZ's that have a fair bit of work done to them and you can get them here in Canada. Ralf Martini in Cranbrook, BC can get in just about anything you want, as can Prophet River firearms in Alberta.

Beside the CZ and the Model 70 Winchester, you can also get the Kimber Caprivi and Talkeetna, the various Ruger 77 models are available in .375 and .458, as well as their new .375 and .416.

If you keep an eye open you can find lots of used big bores in Access to Firearms or on-line. Canadians are just as bad as everyone else for buying big bores to play with and finding out they either can't handle them or are not willing to learn how to handle them...........either way they are to be had with only a few rounds through them.

If you want any further information, drop me a PM.

 

[Rod Smith]

Skyline......thanks for clarifying the Stock issue, I thought I had read an article on the American import CZs that said the stocks were straight, but was not entirely sure.

 

[Dinsdale]

I have Talley rings on a 375 and they always return to zero.

I have 2 scopes a Leupold 2.5-8x32 for PG and longish shots,and 1.5-5 for DG or thick brush....

Takes just a few seconds to mount/dis mount.

Dinsdale

 

[Blainer]

Skyline,

thankyou very much for the info, It turns out that Prophet River is in the same city as i live, i had no idea there was another firearms dealer here. I have contacted him and hope to hear back soon. Thanks to everyone for thier help.