MERKEL 303E pair with second barrel set
MERKEL
Shotguns
Category : C
Caliber : 12-2¾"/70mm
Exceptional pair of MERKEL 303E sidelock over-and-under shotguns, made to special order by GEBRÜDER MERKEL in Suhl, GDR, in June 1978.
The two guns, numbered in sequence, are strictly identical and each benefits of second barrel set in a differentiated choke.
The fitting is so rigorous that each set of tubes can be mounted indifferently on each action.
The frames are the traditional Kersten quadruple bolts type, fitted with double safety sears rear springs sidelocks that can be removed by hand via a hidden folding lock.
The first trigger is articulated and the ejectors are of the H&H type with hammers striking large rim extractor.
The 12 gauge, 28½" special steel barrels, chambered 2¾", benefit from a low-temperature chopper-lump assembly (Special Laufstahl mit Weichlot) reinforced by threaded tie rods.
They are fitted with raised ventilated rib tapering from ?” to ¼” with ivory front bead and bear, inlaid in gold, the numbers and points distinguishing the particular choke bores specifically intended for high-flying shooting, plains or wood: N°1*:10/10° & 10/10° [full-full], N°1:1/10° & 5/10° [improved cylinder-modified], N°2*:1/10° & 1/10° [improved cylinder-improved cylinder], N°2:0/10° & 1/10° [cylinder-improved cylinder].
The stocks are made of a very beautiful French walnut (juglans regia), with very fine well-figured grain. The straight stocks measure 15" from the first trigger to the center of the checkered wood butts and the three-piece forearms are a very close-fitting to each barrels set.
The old silver tempered actions are engraved in the traditional Suhl style, mixing a full cover of scrolls foliage with nice game scenes on the side locks plates. The quality of execution is perfect and it is almost impossible to find a difference in layout between the two guns.
The barrels and fittings remain slow rust blued in a remarkable finish.
These perfectly balanced 7lb-8oz MERKEL are in near-new condition and appear to have never been fired or used outside of the proof house.
One of them bears, still attached to the trigger guard, the factory presentation badge certifying the high quality of the weapon, confirmed by the LQ (Outstanding Quality) mark stamped under each over-and-under barrels.
Each gun, with its additional barrel set, is presented in a leather case stamped with the weapon number.
This rare pair of very high-end shotguns is offered at a price unrelated to their initial cost and remains a testimony to an era now gone.