Question on Searcy Rifles

[Heym 88]

Ok guys...I just got off the phone with the lady at Searcy & Co. I asked her about Butch retiring and their warranty. She said the warranty still applies if the gun has NOT been tampered with. She also stated that Butch was semi-retired but in a few years he might be completely retired she just didn't know yet. I told her that I was in process of buying one of his doubles and if it needed worked on in a year or so could I send it in. She said yes " I have a few years" so not sure what that meant. Here's my question. Should I proceed with my purchase or are things to IFFY to continue. I really like this gun, it's absolutely gorgeous and fits like a glove. Your opinions appreciated.

 

[AkMike]

If your Ford or Dodge need repairs after the warranty expires do you NEED to take it to the dealer or can you take it elsewhere?
Butch isn't the only one that can make repairs to the rifles. Besides I'm sure that someone else will buy the firm and continue with this branding.
I've had mine for several years and it hasn't needed any repairs to it. I did send it to another `smith for a scope rib and a cleaning. Dirk Schimmel of Wy. was Butches shop foreman for many years and can and will do wonderful work on them if needed. JJ at Champlins is another artisan that can do any thing needed also.
Personally I wouldn't hesitate nor fret about the warranty.

 

[Heym 88]

Thanks Mike....that's exactly what I wanted to hear. The mission to obtain my Searcy continues...LOL

 

[AkMike]

Then pull the trigger on the deal! It'll be a very good rifle if it's anything like mine.

 

[Heym 88]

I pulled trigger about 6 months back. Gun is on law away and I'll Finnish her up in a few months. It took me 9 months to pay for my Heym, and it was worth every minute of it. The saga continues. I can't wait.

 

[Macs B]

My understanding is that if Butch chooses to fully retire he may close his doors instead of selling the business. I guess Butch is the only one who knows for sure, maybe he'll shed some light on his plans in the near future.

 

[Double D]

I don't no why any one would worry about warranty on one of Butch's rifles. They are so well made its kind a mute point. I have one of the original ones in 500 x 3 1/4" it has 3 trips to Africa and many miles packed on my shoulder in sand and dirt and rain. It has been packed at times by trackers which can be the most severe form of abuse when I we needed to travel with two rifles. I bought it used and it had been to Africa several times with the fellow I bought it from as well. It will still lay one bullet over the other off sticks at 50 yards with 115 grns of IMR 4831 and 570 grn Woodleigh's and has well over 500 rounds threw it likely closer to 700. So the end of the barrels could use some blue from the sweat off my hands and the action has lost some as well from laying on the crook of my shoulder for miles. It is still tight and the ejectors still launch the brass so far its tuff to find. If I ever go shoot another elephant it will be in the tuff pack and I no for sure that my Searcy is the last thing I need to worry about.

 

[Heym 88]

Thanks Double D..it's what I thought but wanted to hear from other owners..It won't be long and that gorgeous .470 will be mine.

 

[Double D]

Good Luck! Shoot it enough to get comfortable and it will become a friend.

 

[catosilvaje]

There is one of Searcys rifles on gunbroker now with serial # 1 on it . Does anyone here know of this rifle and if it is built on a true double rifle action?

 

[AkMike]

I see 2 Searcy's listed with no serial numbers mentioned or shown. The 450 is one and a 500 is the other. Both are using the now standard box lock DR action. Neither are the early Browning BSS action.

Just for an FYI I believe that Searcy has several series of rifles each with it's own serial number range. Mine is one of 3 that was commissioned and is #3 in that series. There was also a 9.3X74R and a 450/400 as well as my 450 in that group.

 

[DUGABOY1]

......................What AKMike said! If you bought a vintage double rifle and it needed some repair where would you go for the job? As long as Butch is around you don't have to worry your rifle, and even when he is gone, which will be a long time from now I hope, he will take care of you investment.

I've known Butch for many years, and he is a stand up guy. Besides his newest double rifle, the early ones built on the Browning BSS actions are still shooting with thousands of rounds sent through them, so you needn't worry about his rifles today!

I hope you enjoy the rifle, and down a fine 100 pounder with it some day!
Good hunting!