I have no need for a rifle bigger than a 30-06, other than I would like to have one and maybe to fulfill some safari fantasy. Not to start trouble, but is one better out of the box than the other? I guess what I mean is I don't want to shoot it 5 times and have the stock develop a crack...or some other issue. What interests me is the Ruger in 9.3 * 62 and the Winchester 70 in 375HH. For me it would be something to have fun with, something other than a 30-06 or 270. I know the Winchester in 375HH is a classic combo, but the 9.3 sounds like a great old caliber. Thanks, John

I prefer the M70 due to balance and ease of use. The Ruger for me is a bit awkward. However, both are good, dependable rifles.

I own both the M77 (non African) and a M70. I love the M70, a true classic, but I really like the new Ruger's matt bluing and matt wood finish. In fact, I like it so much I now own two wood Rugers and only one M70.

The matt finish just screams hunting rifle and it you go with the 9.3x62 you can stick a VX3 2.5-8x36 and hunt anything you could ever imagine in N America and most things in Africa.

Good luck on your choice but going with the .375 H&H or a 9.3x62....I'd go with the new Ruger all day long over the .375

jsal,

I currently own a M70 Classic Super Express in 375H&H that has been massaged extensively and had the sights upgraded. It's a great rifle, no doubt, and I love it... except for the weight. With the 2.5-8x36 she's right at 11 lbs. Just too heavy.

Now that Ruger is bringing out the African in 9.3, I've made the decision to own one of those and I plan to send my M70 to Danny Pederson for a rebore/rechamber to 458 Lott.

My thoughts are that I own a 416 Rigby, and I want a 458. That gives me a heavy medium and a big bore for buffalo, elephant and the sort, assuming I ever start showing a profit again. And the 9.3 would be a perfect light medium/backup to either of the bigger guns.

The Ruger with the transplanted 2.5-8 Leupy should go right around 8.5-8.75 lbs., which should be a nice balance between shooting comfort and portability. And I love the Rugers. I currently own 2, my 416 Rigby and a M77 MKII in 257 Roberts, which is my go-to in North Alabama.

Hope that helps your decision making. The M70 is pleasant to shoot, smooth and very accurate. But she's a pig of a 375 that's just begging for a bigger hole in her barrel.

David

Guys, thank you for reponding, like I said, I live in Maine and have no real use for a "big" gun, but I would like to have one (mid life crisis toy). I really do like the Ruger: rugged sights, barrel band, less recoil; good looking rifle without being over done IMO.
Do you feel the stock design would handle the recoil of the 9.3 without any modifications, such as bedding? Hope that is not a foolish question, purchasing this rifle would kind of be a big deal for me, just want to make sure I ask all the right questions: Thank You for all your help, John

I think the Model 70 is the better rifle than the new Hawkeye. For pure fun and fantasy the 375H&H is my choice. More ammo available and lots of fun. I have a M70 in 375 and the recoil is very reasonable, while the gun is not over heavy like some of the other 375s. Not a light weight either, nice to shoot.

I just learned of the 9.3x62 and if you ever think you might use the gun for moose or any lesser game it is lighter and more appropriate (IMHO) for hunting Maine. I am thinking of buying one too. The 9.3 is not a very big caliber, either for fantasy or any special rifle consideration. I would expect the Ruger too be fine for that.

Your last post sounds like you leaning to 9.3 so I wont argue against a good choice. I do have the M70 in 375 it is a great gun.

You can use a recoil calculator to see which will kick less. That would be an interesting comparison as the 9.3 is lower powered but the gun is lighter, might be a wash? I have no idea, here is a link if you want to plug and play - compare two side by side.

http://www.handloads.com/calc/recoil.asp

At least I dont have to hear about that latest pretender- the 375Ruger. Where are those guys, sleeping? Go classic or go home!

Do they have both of these at Kittery Trading Post? I might go look at the 9.3 African. Dont worry, I need to get a tax refund before I jump. CZ offer a 9.3 Kevlar carbine, sounds sweet too, but not the African classic theme you desire.

Thanks Fourbore, called Kittery 2 days ago, they didn't have any Africans at all on hand, they will order, but I would like to check one out before ordering. It really sounds like one can't go wrong with either rifle. Is your model 70 an FN or New Haven era rifle, you sound very satisfied with it, thanks for your advice, John

where in Maine, John?

My M70 is control feed from New Haven. It has been a lot fun for me. I got this for the same reason you are looking now.

Gun shops are getting far and few between these days Used to be a lot of nice stuff at Rileys in Hooksett NH, still ok but not likely you see any big bores there. I was fairly impressed with Cabelas in Scarborough (sp?) ME its quite a hike for me, but they might have both?

I found a Ruger No. 1 in .458 WM at a gun show. Price was right. Mounted a Leupold FX 4x on it. I think the scope is 35mm.

No, I don't have elephants in my neighborhood. I just bought it because I wanted a big bore.

Jsl3170, live in the Auburn area, you?
John

Actually, if this is going to represent your fantasy African rifle, or maybe your first step towards someday going to Africa, the answer is 375 H&H. Not only is it a classic African caliber, it is legal for dangerous game in every country. Go ahead and dream about your elephant, you will already have your elephant gun.

375 H&H and M70 is like bacon and eggs.

The very fact you want the rifle mainly as a toy or a "just to own one" eliminates the 9.3 X 62.

Also, the M70 is a much better action in the "just nice to own" stakes. Huge action recoil lug, perfect position of front screw for bedding, proper tang for bedding, rigid mid section and conventional scope mounts.

375, because its above the legal minimum, for all game, worldwide, and you have a bullet weight ranging from 210 gr Barnes X to 380 gr Rhinos. You won't be sorry.