I've got my pg rifle now. So the big bore is next. I'm leaning to the 404 Jeffery or 416 Rigby. Is it hard to find brass for the 404? I've got a couple of years to get it together. Twelve months till my wife and I hit the southern cape for pg. Can't wait! We will be going back for buff and sable in 2011 if the good Lord willing and gas isn't 20.00 a gallon. Thanks to all

Is this an off-the -shelf rifle to be bought?

All the ~416's are pretty much the same. The 404 Jeffery has a history of feeding difficulties, but if it feeds there isn't much difference between any of them. Hornady will have brass at some point (as soon as Jamison makes it).

There are undoubtedly more 416 bullets around.

Isn't Ruger coming out with a .416. If so, I would wait and get SS/"rubber stock" verion and replace the recoil pad with something that does not hang up on clothing so much.
The Rigby round is just too fat, bulky and the ammo for obscure 404 (or 10,75x73) is difficult to find. Only students of ole' African books or Africa bound hunters know what 404 is.

Paolo, Thanks for your responce. I'll be considering the 416 Ruger but not in black rubber. I'm sorry but I can't take composite stocks. Holding a nice rifle with a great piece of wood is like having a beautiful woman in your arms. I talked to a friend of mine last week that was in Africa when they were testing the 416 Ruger. He got to shoot one several times and was quite impressed. I still think I'd rather have a 404 just for the sentimental value. I'm old fashioned and I hate change. Thanks

Six of one and half-dozen of the other, ballistics-wise. As far as factory rifle, the 416's a little more accessible, but not much. As far as I know, CZ is your only choice for a 404. In the Rigby, you have CZ and Ruger (M77 and No. ONE). Some of the costom builders offer both, but you're looking at a lot more money.

Rigby brass is probably a little easier to find, reasonably priced, but not much. MidwayUSA usually has both in Norma or A-square, but it's expensive. Hornady is making 416 Rigby, but availability is spotty. They're supposed to be bringing out 404 Jeff brass as well, but who knows when.

David

Ruger #1 in 450-400 3"...just as good as any 404 or 416 for all practical purposes.