A couple of months ago I sold both my .375 H&H and .458 Lott. I had decided after four trips to Africa that I was going to do something different and wouldn't "need" anymore big guns. To say I outsmarted myself again is an understatement.

The same day the .458 Lott found a new home, my PH from Tanzania called me and after about 30-45 seconds he talked me into another safari in 2009.

Well, my gunsmith just called to let me know my new CZ550 in .416 Rigby just arrived.

I've already picked up a set of dies and I've got some brass on the way from another AR member. My gunsmith probably already has it out of the stock preparing to bed the action and do some trigger work. But, like a new daddy, I'm headed up to his shop tomorrow just so I can hold it for a little while.

Africa is a drug. If you don't want to be hooked for the rest of your life, you better never make the first trip! But I'll never regret my first trip although the day I finally realize I've made my last trip will be a sad one indeed.

Bull1

Perhaps you will never come to that realization. No hurry for that day, but perhaps when it does come , you will go to sleep dreaming of Africa and just not wake up. That would be a great way for an old hunter to make his exit.

For now , congrats on the upcoming hunt. I hope it is your best yet.

After 66 years of abuse (neurosurgeon's words)I had some repair work done on L4/5. When rehab was not going like I thought it should I considered selling my 470 double and 416 Rem Mag as Africa seemed part of the dim historic past. Wife said "bad idea".

Smart woman. Rehab is going better, going to scout for turkeys this afternoon, and planning a 2009 leopard/buffalo hunt.

Really happy I did not sell my big bores. God willing there will be more sunsets in Africa as not a day goes by I do not dream of her thorns, long grass, and sounds of the night.

quote:

Originally posted by JBoutfishn:
After 66 years of abuse (neurosurgeon's words)I had some repair work done on L4/5. When rehab was not going like I thought it should I considered selling my 470 double and 416 Rem Mag as Africa seemed part of the dim historic past. Wife said "bad idea".

Smart woman. Rehab is going better, going to scout for turkeys this afternoon, and planning a 2009 leopard/buffalo hunt.

Really happy I did not sell my big bores. God willing there will be more sunsets in Africa as not a day goes by I do not dream of her thorns, long grass, and sounds of the night.

You have a good and thoughful wife!

JPK

Smart woman indeed. Take her out to dinner ASAP!

I've sold my big bores several times. In fact, I need to replace one again. I haven't quite found one that I completely like yet.

quote:

Africa is a drug. If you don't want to be hooked for the rest of your life, you better never make the first trip!

I'm a young guy with only one safari so far. It's all I think about. I can't wait to go back. I was already planning my next safari before I left my first. I think my next will be a 21 day in Masailand for lion. I can't wait!

Brett...told you so!

2008 is the year of the lion ...for everyone except me.

And me...

I really have been amazed at how many have booked lions this year in spite of the economy or perhaps because of it. The lion closings have created a tidal wave of lion bookings from guys who were formerly waiting for the right time. It's just amazing to me. I think it's great but sadly, will not be able to hunt lion in my lifetime unless a PAC scenario develops.

I'm quite simple...I would be very happy with Karl's lion.

quote:

Originally posted by yukon delta:
2008 is the year of the lion ...for everyone except me. I think it's great but sadly, will not be able to hunt lion in my lifetime unless a PAC scenario develops.

Yup, me to I will also contribute $1.00 weekly to the State Lotto. While the odds are horrible, can't win if you don't play

Haven't booked it yet Yukon. I'm in the process of finishing school and moving up to your neck of the woods. After that I'm in business.

Oh? Do tell...

Headed to Kodiak then hunting.