I’m not sure if I can edit my post but after a little more research, I have narrowed my search to a CRF gun. Presently searching for either a CZ Safari Classics Magnum Express in .416 Remington or Winchester 70 Safari Express. I can order the Winchester from my local dealer but because the CZ has been discontinued, I am actively searching for pre-owned one. Thank you again.
Drop the last 2....If CRF rifle, is wanted, following models to consider:
ZKK 602
CZ 550
Winchester m70
Ruger m77
Zastava m70.
Not necessarily each model will be available in 416 rem mag. However, later rebarelling to be considered, or compromise to be made with some other DG caliber.
It’s is discontinued and somewhat rare. The CZ Safari Classics Magnum Express was chambered in .416 Remington. Very similar to the standard 550 but about twice as expensive.I wasn't aware that CZ made a 416 Remington, but know they do make a 416 Rigby. Gunbroker has lots of them listed (some dealers list 10+ in stock). A few Win Mod 70s in 416 Rem are listed too.
Going to used in Zimbabwe for Buffalo and elephant. It’s the caliber my consultant/PH recommended.@JHT
What are your plans for the rifle?
Is there a particular reason it needs to be a 416RM?
It would be of useful to the AH members to understand how to best assist you.
A used Dakota from 2009 or earlier would be an excellent choice.I like the Dakotas also but a little outside of my budget for a new one. Thank y’all for your help.
Very sound advice. Thank you a lot. I didn’t know that Remington bought Dakota. If I could find a CZ in .416 REM I’d most likely jump on it but plan is evolving to buy new Winchester and customize.A used Dakota from 2009 or earlier would be an excellent choice.
Remington bought them in 2009 and IMO, haven't been the same since.
Also be aware that the price of a new rifle may not be end of spending.
Depending on what you get, it will need to be fine tuned.
It is said that the CZ550 is the best value for a DG CRF rifle.
To make it DG ready, plan on spending about $4K total.
Or you could buy a Dakota for $5-8K and be much closer to done.
I know we all work on a budget.
But budgeting for a DG hunt is not easy.
Cutting corners on the rifle you will be using will ultimately be your choice.
It has been my experience that you should buy once, and cry once.
Get exactly what you want the first time and eat PB&J for a month to pay for it.
Keep your eyes on the classifieds here.
There are some very nice, ready to hunt DG CRF rifles.
This one is a 416RUGER that is looking pretty good.
https://www.africahunting.com/threads/for-sale-416-ruger.60815/
No customization needed on Winchester 70. Unless you add a Mcmillan stock like I did. Makes the rifle nearly bomb proof.Very sound advice. Thank you a lot. I didn’t know that Remington bought Dakota. If I could find a CZ in .416 REM I’d most likely jump on it but plan is evolving to buy new Winchester and customize.
Very sound advice. Thank you a lot. I didn’t know that Remington bought Dakota. If I could find a CZ in .416 REM I’d most likely jump on it but plan is evolving to buy new Winchester and customize.
I’m going to assume you say to forget the Sako and go with one of the other options for a true CRF action which I can understand, but have you or any PH’s you’ve worked with actually had a Sako fail during a hunt?Much better idea forget the Sako.....