My dealer didn't deicde what I bought. I originally wanted the .45-70, but changed my mind to have it in time for the 2011 coyote season. I have no intention of hunting coyotes, but pigs. In the WMA where I'm going to hunt pigs you have to use a weapon that is legal for whatever season you happen to be in, and you can't hunt coyote with anything over .30 cal.
My original intent was to have the .45-70 serve as my foul weather gun, hence the synth stock. This was originally discussed with my dealer, and that's what stuck in his head.
When I first talked to my dealer I'd intended to get the .45-70 and order two extra barrels ,one in .30-30 and one in .50 cal muzzleloader, and I still do. I just got a little nervous when I was told about the 6 week turnaround time. I was also surprised to hear I can't get them all on the original order, appaently H&R doesn't do that. I figured it was like a car, you order it with the options you want and that's that. Not the case.
So you see, everything is going to work out for the best. I may be a little late getting into the coyote/pig season, but ultimately I'm going to be happier because I'm getting the synth stock I wanted in the first place.
GH1