Just by the title, I think this would be a good book to buy. So, who has read it, and what sort of Safari rifles does he talk about? Does it have pics of fine rifles as well? I assume this would have doubles, as well as bolt actions. Can anyone give me any details of what the content is about? Thanks. ~~~Suluuq
I have the book and think it is excellent. It discusses most of the common and not so common calibers and action types and their uses. He also goes into stocks, mounts, sights and other stuff..really is a comprehensive book. There are a quite a few good pictures and overall I would say it is a "must have" for anybody into African rifles/hunting.
My only concern is that it could perhaps do with being revised to take into account some of the new developments such as new calibres and the latest offerings...
Posts: 5684 | Location: North Wales UK | Registered: 22 May 2002
Great reading that covers just about all of the common and semi common calibers. I've read it cover to cover twice and referenced it on many occasions. Without a doubt, get it.
------------------ Good Hunting & Hunt Safe, David
He knows there is a lot of new stuff to add and I believe he's planning a new version within the next few years.
Personally I think it is the bible of safari rifle and cartridge references. I just about have this edition memorized, a new edition would be a great read too.
Kyler
Posts: 2520 | Location: Central Coast of CA | Registered: 10 January 2002
Boddington outdid himself on this one, it is the African book of the century, chucked full of sho-nuff good information, for the pro or first time African Safari person.
You should have two, one for your bookshelf and one to use. You will go to this book many times and surley wear it out. If I could only have one of his books this would be the one.
Posts: 188 | Location: New Brunswick, Canada | Registered: 25 May 2001
Craig used a survey of African hunters and outfitters as a device to build the book around, and it was an excellent choice. This is the key feature and difference of this book in my book review opinion. He has some good questions, and his slicing and dicing of the responses is well done and very informative. He covers what rifle outfitters think a client shoudl bring for various game, and what the PH should use for himself "backing up".
I agree it is long in the tooth, but that is the fate of books that are not complemented by new editions, updates or web page updates.
Suluq, you need this book!
The classic gentleman's library purchase is three copies: one to shelve, one to loan out, and the third to use and insert marginal notes for your own use. I don't know if we have any classic gentlemen here or not.
jim dodd
------------------ "if you are to busy to hunt, you are too busy."
Posts: 4166 | Location: San Diego, CA USA | Registered: 14 November 2001
Wow, Rusty you have set off an avalanche of praise for this book. My two cents obviously not needed, however I have enjoyed the work (I agree with Ray, Boddington's best) and have probably read it 15 times and refer to it regularly. No doubt, you got to get it.
Posts: 80 | Location: Atlanta, Georgia, USA | Registered: 13 April 2002
Good book and worth reading. My only ding against it is that Boddington is a southpaw and this clearly prejudices him towards certain rifles that are available in LH versions and enhances his bent towards dbl rifles. The survey portion is great.
It's a great book. Like others, his advice figured heavily in the choices I make about guns and accessories. He gives enough detail (usually) to back his opinions/conclusions, and that makes the book especially useful. By giving you the factors in his reasoning, you can decide for yourself if his preferences will be good fits for you.
And as a southpaw myself, I found it highly relevant to my predicament. It's a fair criticism that his left-handness influences his opinion. But I don't think this reduces the usefullness of the book much if at all.
(The only thing I've found comparable for info for lefties is the internet, and more specifically this forum.)
Pertinax
Posts: 444 | Location: Georgia | Registered: 07 November 2001
The book is truly excellent, Boddington really hit the nail on the head with this one...Generally, when you read his articles though, I think he is far to kind with the inustry when he is testing new products....afraid to step on their toes perhaps??
I think it's a great book. I can't count how many times I have referenced something out of it. When you read it, you don't get the feeling that it is a magazine article designed to sell the newest "super ultra magnum (non-belted)". There is a lot of common sense advice in there for the first-timer, or for an experienced hand...
I borrowed this book from a friend a while ago and devoured it. Read some chapters twice. It is definately the best reference I have ever read on the subject. I find myself wanting to go back and re-read certain sections over again, so I will have to cave and buy a copy for myself. Hopefully he does update it. When he does I'll buy two!
Canuck
Posts: 7123 | Location: The Rock (southern V.I.) | Registered: 27 February 2001
