Merkel 140AE 450-400

[Longwalker]

I have been offered a Merkel 140AE in 450-400 Nitro Express 3" that I am considering for a hunt for buffalo and elephant in 2019. It has been fitted with EAW turn in scope mounts, and a Burris fastfire red dot sight. It has shot less than 40 rounds, and appears as new. It has plain wood and simple scroll engraving. It is a private sale in Canada for the equivalent of US $7150.

From those who own Merkel doubles - is that a good $ deal, and are there any tips you can give me about common faults or things to look out for in a used Merkel double? I am used to double shotguns and have owned a couple Merkels but never a double rifle. Any tips appreciated.

 

[jand]

longwalker . I would shoot the rifle and make sure that A , It regulates and B , that it doesn't double discharge.

I have seen a number of Merkels double discharge.

Shoot numerous shots with it.

Good luck

 

[Longwalker]

Thanks jand. I was told these rifles had interrupting sears to prevent "doubling" - is that not correct information? Also, I need to know what ammunition they are regulated with. The seller says Norma, but I find no reference to Norma ammunition in this caliber when I do a internet search. Hornady and Kynoch are the only two manufacturers that I find. ??

 

[Spooksar]

You may have to reload for it. I have one in 470 NE and it was regulated for Federal ammo using Woodlieghs. I got Barnes XCL bullets to regulate and when they no longer made the I tried Hornady and couldn't get better then 3 inch spread at 50 yards, I got Woodlieghs from Tradex and used a load that duplicates the old Kynock load and I get 1 inch at 100 yards. That is a good price for Canada for the rifle I've seen them go for up to $14,000 and never under $10,000.

 

[375 Ruger Fan]

or you could buy @Vanguard2279 Sabatti 450/400 for about half the price.

https://www.africahunting.com/threads/sabatti-92-deluxe-450-400.41453/

 

[Doc25]

Tradex has some in 470 for $9000 cad. Brand new.
https://www.tradeexcanada.com/content/merkel-140-ae-safari-sxs-double-rifle-470-nitro-express-0

 

[Spooksar]

Tradex has some in 470 for $9000 cad. Brand new.
https://www.tradeexcanada.com/content/merkel-140-ae-safari-sxs-double-rifle-470-nitro-express-0

That’s a good price I paid $8000 Canadian for mine 15 years ago