Timex watches were famous for being able to “take a licking and keep on ticking.” Merkels have the same kind of reputation. While they’re not the sleekest doubles out there, you can stand up to tens-of-thousands of rounds without a hitch.
This one is up for auction now on Gunbroker.com. I love the color-case hardening on it and leather pad on the end of it is a nice touch. This would be a perfect travel gun for everything from grouse in Maine to pheasants in the Dakota. And because it’s a Merkel, you can rely to function flawlessly and get the job done wherever you take it. The listing ends tomorrow, 2/2/2015, @ 10:00:00 PM ET — so get in your bids now.
MERKEL 47E Boxlock, ejector, single trigger 20 gauge: Up for auction is an excellent little Merkel 47E 20 gauge with factory upgrade single selective trigger. This gun is an earlier generation as evidenced by the cocking indicators, intercepting sears and nicer engraving. The gun has desirable 28” barrels with both bores measuring .628” & chokes @ IC/M, .009R, .016L. The reinforced, super strong, reinforced “Color Hardened” action has “Purdey” style double underbites, a “Greener Crossbolt” style third fastener with side clips & disc set strikers. The nicely figured European walnut pistol grip stock measures 14 7/8” over a beautiful #6 custom leather pad by David Yale of Delta, CO. (450.00 upgrade). Checkering is razor sharp with no flaws. Drop is just over 2 1/8”, comb 1 ½” with about ¼” cast for a RH shooter.
Condition is excellent with just minor dings on the furniture and a few light spots in the coloring on the action. No serious wood or metal problems! All in all this is really nice, lightly used little Dove / Quail gun weighing in at 6 lbs. 6 oz. I’ve owned a lot of Merkels over the years and what is lacking in style, is more than make up in handling, “uber” strength and durability! In fact I have a pair of 147SLs that I regularly use in Argentina – they’re that tough! These guns are one of the best values in box lock smallbores today. Email with any questions & I’m always open to trades!
