I'm thinking about getting a SIACHI double rifle in 45-70. Any thoughts on quality and what I should be expecting to pay on the used market? Thanks.

SIACE, http://www.siacearmi.com , These are basically hand made guns, quality is a step up from the Merkel or Chapuis. Unless you have already found a used gun it might be tough search as they do not make many guns in a year. I have one new 45-70 mid-grade gun remaining and will not see anymore until mid-09. Pictures and description can be seen at www.kebcollc.com , look under the firearms and then rifles tab.

I can't believe I spelled SIACE wrong but I did. Sorry. I do know better.

I have owned one for six months now. I have re-regulated it, via hand loading, to shoot 350 gr Hornady JRN at 2000fps using 60gr of Varget. The factory regulation target was done using Federal 300 gr JHP factory ammo. I love the quality of the gun and its weight, 7lbs+, and balance as I hunt in the Colorado Rockies and do not want a heavy weapon. At $7K new I think that it is an excellent value.

I saw examples of most of their guns at the Italian EXA sporting show and visited their factory in Gardone this past spring. They build guns for themselves and also assemble rifles for other Italian makers, several of which I recognized when I was there. The fit and finish appear to be good. I have no idea how they shoot, but I seriously considered one in 9.3x74R.

Dave