I'm looking to add a .404 Jeffery to the collection and I'm weighing my options between buying a factory rifle (if I can find one) or commissioning a custom build. I’d appreciate input from those with firsthand experience in either route.
Primarily intended for African PG and DG hunting, but I also value heritage, function, and aesthetics (this will be a working rifle, not a wall-hanger).
Budget is flexible but realistic. This will be my first rifle build. I’m after proper craftsmanship, not boutique bling.
Is anyone aware of current production rifles chambered in .404 Jeffery that are worth considering?
If I go the build route, I'd appreciate recommendations on:
Who do I need to speak to. Gunsmiths or custom builders with proven experience in large-bore dangerous game rifles. Preferably someone who has done this conversion or with understanding of feeding, extraction, and recoil management in DG rifles.
Is there a preferred donor rifle that's commonly converted to .404 Jeffery without major headaches? or is it more cost-effective and reliable to start with a new, purpose-built action?
Keen to hear about any builds, lessons learned, or any specific pitfalls to avoid.
I found a few articles on other forums, but they’re all from the states, where things are done alittle differently.
TIA
R
You may also want to consider this
Disappointed In My New 404 Jeffery
Well after waiting months and months, I finally picked up the 404 Jeffrey today. I came home, and I immediately went out back and put some rounds down range. Much to my surprise, the recoil was very significant. “Much more than my 416.” After just three rounds, I was ready to put the rifle down...
www.africahunting.com
S
