B-man - thanks. I know of what you speak about waiting for the right gun. It took a few guns (fortunately, none as expensive as an Essencia) to learn that lesson. I agree with you that the boxlock round actions are in some ways more appealing. The Essencia sidelocks have a very unique look - verging on exotic.

I have spent too much time on the Ziegenhahn website already - I need to fish or cut bait. I am traveling for the next 10 days, but when I get back I plan to put a call into Germany.

Such a long, long time to be gone, and a short time to be there.