I am ordering my first double. A Searcy .470 nitro. What are some options I want to consider. I know I am going to put a leather recoil pad on it, but what else should I take a look at? Thanks.

Barrel length: 23", 24", 25", 26"
Ejectors or extractors
Engraving
Front sight: pop-up "night" sight
Rear Sights: single standing, multiple blade
Wood: grade

George

Isn't the PH model coming with ejectors? I am under the impression that they do, but I will confirm.

What about 24" barrels, seems like a good middle ground for velocity and handling of the gun.

The sights is what I need help on!??

stock model, upgrade wood TWICE, 24" barrels, 1 standing rear, leather pad, case.

I believe this to be the maximum value.

jeffe

What Jeffoso said.

And yes the PH model comes standard with ejectors.

Throw your money first and foremost towards upgrading the wood. This is the best and cheapest way to up grade your DR.

I personally like the Trap grip cap and stock medallion.

If you have even more $$$, have Ron do some extra engraving.

Congrats, how much more exciting can it get?? I've never owned a double, but would luv to one day and the Searcy sure seems like the one to go with if buying new.

I've heard there's pro's n con's to ejectors vs extractors... What do u fellas with doubles prefer? I can only comment on what I've heard, but I do remember noting how John Taylor - at least in his method of hunting - preferred EXTRACTORS, not ejectors becuase he didn't like the associated noise when stalking very close into herds of elephant in dense bush. He wanted the ability to open the action and pluck out a spent shell and slip in a fresh one silently if the heard did not erupt at the first shot. With ejectors this is apparently not possible or difficult. Perhaps it was more to do with his methods and the era he hunted in.

I can also see definite advantages to ejectors too, so perhaps it depends on your needs.

One more thing.

Regarding the barrel length, I would consult with Butch. When my dad got measured for his .577, Butch recommended adding 1/2 inch as he felt it would give a better overall balance to the rifle.

I have extractors on my Merkel .500 NE and we did not opt for ejectors on the .577 - that's one more thing that could go wrong in the field when you're knee deep in doo-doo...

I think you made a great choice in the Searcy. Are you visiting with Butch to get fitted? He's going to be at both SCI and DSC...

Congradulations Lightening,
I sent my deposit a little over a week ago. I opted for a PH model in 450-400 with night sight and trap door grip cap. I will go with whatever Butch suggests as far as barrel length as I want the rifle to handle as lively as possible.

I prefer at least 26 inch bbls on any double rifle 40 cal or up.
I have 26 inch bbls on my 450/400 and 28 inch bbls on my 450 No2.
I have handled and shot some 27 inch bbled doubles and liked them too.
My 28 inch 450 No2 Is one of the best handling doubles I have seen.
Funny though, as I like several 18 to 20 inch bolt rifles.