Make: Gebruder Merkel

Model: Boxlock Over/Under Double Gun, Two-Barrel Set

Serial Number: 13222

Year of Manufacture: Ca. 1912-1922

Gauge: 12 Gauge, 2 3/4" Chamber

Action Type: Boxlock Over/Under Shotgun with Single Selective Mechanical Trigger, Manual Safety, Selective Ejectors & Cocking Indicators

Barrel Lengths: 26", 26 1/2"

Choke: 26"- Full over Improved Cylinder, 26 1/2"- Improved Cylinder over Cylinder, all fixed.

Sights / Optics: Each barrel set has a teardrop-shaped front bead with a smaller round mid bead; the beads have a copper/rose gold appearance. The ribs are matted for glare reduction.

Weight: 26" installed- 7 lb., 15.2 oz., 26 1/2"- 7 lb., 10.3 oz.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece checkered walnut with semi-beavertail forend, pistol grip, straight comb, white buttplate and grip cap, each carved with fowl. The plate, cap and stocks have some red dye transfer from the case lining. There are some scattered light nicks and scratches. There are a few thin cracks and small losses around the edges, most at the wrist and the rear of the forend. The checkering is well defined. The LOP measures 14 1/8" from the front of the trigger to the rear of the plate, 13 7/8" to the back of the wood. Drop at comb is approximately 1 1/2", drop at heel 2 1/2", consistent with both barrel sets. Overall, the stocks are in Good-plus condition as not original to the gun.

Type of Finish: Blued & Case Color

Finish Originality: The receiver's finish is Original. The 26 1/2" barrel and forend iron assembly are serial-matched to the receiver, but have been refinished. The 26" barrel set has no identifying markings and was likely fit to the gun after-market.

Bore Condition: The bores are mostly bright. There is infrequent minor erosion and stubborn fouling, more notable in the 26" barrel. In this writer's opinion the bores rate 9/10.

Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 90% of its metal finish. There is residue on the receiver from the stocks' new finish. The barrels retain deep blue with minor edge wear and scattered light marks. The second rib section on the 26.5" barrel set has a small dent. Also the small tab on the lower front edge of the receiver has sheared off. This tab was screw set into position and is included with the shotgun. The action shows operational wear. The screwheads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots, most are timed correctly. The markings are clear. Overall, the shotgun is in Very Good-plus condition as partially refinished.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly, however as noted there is a tab that has sheared off the lower front edge of the receiver. We did not fire this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included is a luggage case with red english-fit interior, the additional barrel set, and two later-vintage Merkel booklets. The case has scattered wear and the handle has broken off at one end.

Our Assessment: The name speaks for itself. Merkel has stood as a hallmark of Suhl’s finest gunmaking since the late 19th century, combining precise engineering with unmistakable craftsmanship. The firm’s over/under designs are revered for their durability, hand engraving, and superb balance, a reflection of Germany’s old-world sporting culture. This cased two-barrel set embodies that heritage, providing versatility for field or clays while exemplifying the artistry of early 20th Century Suhl production.

The original gun has been equipped with a set of custom stocks as well as a later-fit second barrel set. The case and accessories complement its character as a refined example of German gun making, a fitting addition to any high-grade double collection.