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LOT 1525
Factory Master Ralph Weiss Signed, Engraved, and Gold Inlaid Gebruder
Merkel Model 303EL Hand Detachable Sidelock Over/Under Shotgun -
Serial no. 96403, 12 gauge, 28 inch solid rib bbl., blue/casehardened/gold finish,
walnut stock. Gebruder Merkel has long been a standout amongst the many
famous makers from Germany’s Suhl region, with this gun being a shining
example of the level of craftsmanship that the company is capable of achieving.
Built with blued Spezial Laufstahl barrels which feature a single white bead
sight on the matted solid rib, standard Merkel markings on the upper tube,
1985 dated German proofs, and chambers marked 2 3/4 inches with automatic
ejectors. The barrels are adorned with tight scroll engraving at either side of the chambers around a relief gold inlaid bouquet of flowers on either side. The barrels are fitted to a beautifully casehardened bolstered hand detachable sidelock action which displays gorgeous tight Purdey style bouquet & scroll engraving with the bouquets executed fine relief gold inlay. The engraving and gold bouquets extend onto the triggerguard, toplever, and lower tang with only scrollwork seen on the upper tang. The toplever is signed “R.WeiSS” by factory Master Engraver Ralph Weiss. The gun features double triggers with the front being articulated, bright cocking indicators on either lockplate, and a tang mounted manual safety. The gun is mounted with an exceptionally well- figured and multi-point checkered three-piece forend with casehardened and engraved fittings as well as a straight grip stock with teardrop carved drop points and a checkered bare butt. Barrel and stock measurements (U/O): bore diameter nine inches from the breech both proofed at 18.4mm (.724 inches) and measured .726/.725 inches; choke constriction .032/.041 inches; minimum wall thickness .044/.043 inches; 1 7/16 inch drop at comb; 2 5/16 inch drop at heel; 14 3/8 inch length of pull; cast-off; weight 7 lbs. 4 oz.
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CONDITION: Excellent overall, retaining 99% original blue and casehardened finishes with minor handling evidence and sharp checkering on the stock and forend. Mechanically excellent. This is a great chance to own a beautiful piece from one of Germany’s most famous makers!
Estimate: 9,500 - 16,000