Parker Repro vs Merkel 20 gauge - Differences?
I figured you guys would have some good insight on this question...I am looking at a 20 gauge Repro and a 20 gauge Merkel. Both are made in the same era (80's/90's) - the Merkel is a post GDR gun. Similar dimensions, weight etc. What do you see as the main differences in these 2 guns, in general. I would like to get both, but that's not an option right now! So what sets them apart would greatly help in my decision.
|
What grade is the Merkel? I'd put the 147E in the same category FWIW. I've owned several Merkel's. I don't think they have the flow of the Parkers but they are just about bombproof and I believe in 20 gauge they are normally lighter then the Parkers. The 147E is/was hand engraved. Unless the Merkel is an EL grade its going to most likely have plainer wood then the Repro, but it will be better laid out IMO. Tough choice IMO. I'd probably lean Merkel as I've several and they are overbuilt and will last forever. However, since this is a Parker forum you may get more nods to the repro.
|
I wouldn't trust a Merkel single trigger. The guy I hunt with uses a 16 gauge Merkel and the only issue he had was with an ejector (easily fixed). If they are both double trigger guns it's a tough choice. Can you shoot them befor you buy?
Ken |
I have a double trigger straight grip Merkel in 20 gauge. I like it very much. Plenty light and never have had an issue with it. I believe the wood is much more straight grain on Merkel than any Parker repro I’ve seen. I do like the Parker wood-more interesting. I like the Merkel cross bolt action- appears strong and is interesting mechanically. I believe it’s a Greener design. When opening the action it is quite tight. Probably will become looser, but hasn’t in the 15 years I’ve owned it. I only use for hunting though so not a lot of use. I’ve never owned a repro but appreciate them. I believe the Parker probably has more collecting value. Do the pre and post GDR guns differ?
|
Quote:
|
Quote:
|
Quote:
PS. Simson was also made in that same factory in Suhl and they are clones of the Merkel's in just about every way possible. They can often be found for a good bit cheaper. |
The question I would ask is the difference when you want to sell one of them.
|
Quote:
However, If you want a gun to hunt with for 30 years that will take a licking and keep on ticking I'd say Merkel. |
Pre war Merkel's quality is akin to best Birmingham guns. I have had 203, and 303 guns, but I have avoided postwar guns as the quality difference was obvious. I suspect most current production Merkels are at least as good as Repros, and other Japanese guns.
|
All times are GMT -4. The time now is 09:00 AM. |
Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.8.4
Copyright ©2000 - 2024, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.
Copyright © 1998 - 2024, Parkerguns.org