470 NE, about 5yrs old, 2 boxes of Federal factory thru it. I haven't seen it yet, don't know what to look for in a double rifle, or what the going price of one is.

Thanks.

First, is it a side-by-side or an over/under? You didn't say, and they do make a "Classic O/U."

The used "Classic SXS Big Five (Big Bore)" in truly mint condition, and in 470 NE, I would offer $7,000 tops for, if it was a good shooter, shooting the proper loads into less than 3" for a composite 4 shot group at 50 yards/meters, or I would settle for 6" or less at 100 yards.

Of course you have to see the condition and check the integrity, function, and accuracy. That includes disassembling and "ringing" the barrels (hang the barrels from a cord attached securely to the lumps and thump them with a rubber or wooden mallet and assure that there is no buzz or rattle but just a pleasant bell like tone). Check the bites of the lumps for peening or unusual marks or wear. Be sure it opens and closes smoothly and locks up solidly, and is not "off face."

If it has side plates with engraving (adornment of the same action) it might raise the price 2K, but I would not be thrilled about that. For $9,000, I would rather go look for a plain, new 500 NE.

I would not be interested in the O/U.

See if you can "jew" him down if it is a SXS.

Krieghoff's are great guns. Get one and stick with it, or just start off right with a Searcy or Merkel in the traditional A&D boxlock.

Al,

Follow DaggaRon's advice on what to check for - it's virtually my check list when buying a double.

IF it's an ejector, also check the gun works with Snap Caps or empty cases (but with fired primers still in).

Assuming it is a double trigger
Fire Front trigger (Right Barrel) - open the gun and check only one case ejects
Put case back in
Fire REAR trigger (LEFT Barrel) - open the gun and check only one case ejects
Put case back in
Fire BOTH Triggers and check both cases eject - and they should be ejected at the same time
so they should fly through the air almost side by side. If NOT, the ejector timing will be out.

Hope this helps and good luck with the purchase.

500 Nitro

The Krieghoffs just do not fit me, they are awkard, cumbersome and ill balanced for me and I really hate that safty apparatis...

I, personally would opt for a new Searcy at about $7200. or an English gun for about the same money or a bit more than the Krieghoff....The Merkles sell for about $6900 and they have good fit and balance.

Well I went and looked at it. It's a standard Big Five Classic, side x side 470. As new, can't find a mark on it.

Have to agree with Ray, that cocking gizmo would take some getting use to. It seemed to feel ok as far as fit, but this was the fisrt double rifle I've ever handled. I'll keep looking in the mean time.

Thanks fellas.