Looking for feedback on subject rifle and input as to how the rifle functions, accuracy, overall quality, etc. Like the somewhat radical appearance and like Merkels, but sold off some other rifles and may put part of the proceeds to one of their Stutzen models. All input appreciated. Not sure of which caliber, but may opt for 7x57 or 270Win.

martin

i want one too

but the euro rifle must be in a euro caliber!

You are correct, the rifle should be in Euro caliber. For my purposes the 7x57 would work just fine. Will go on the hunt for one after New Years.

A friend of mine bought one of these rifles. He bought the rifle in 9.3X62 and bought an extra barrel in .270WIN.

I haven't shot the rifle but can tell you the fit and finish is 1st rate and the trigger is nice. The stock fits me well and it points easy for me. The top housing is made of aluminum and has a french grey appearence. The deluxe model has a case colored steel houseing. My friend said that's the one he wanted until he handled it. He said it felt heavy and unbalanced compaired to the standard model.

I like the rifle and hope to own one someday. The switch barrel concept is a neat idea even though I wouldn't use it that much.

Terry

quote:

Originally posted by TC1:
A friend of mine bought one of these rifles. He bought the rifle in 9.3X62 and bought an extra barrel in .270WIN.

I haven't shot the rifle but can tell you the fit and finish is 1st rate and the trigger is nice. The stock fits me well and it points easy for me. The top housing is made of aluminum and has a french grey appearence. The deluxe model has a case colored steel houseing. My friend said that's the one he wanted until he handled it. He said it felt heavy and unbalanced compaired to the standard model.

I like the rifle and hope to own one someday. The switch barrel concept is a neat idea even though I wouldn't use it that much.

Terry

Nearly everyone says that they will not use the switch barrel feature of these type rifles and then 90% of those end up with a multiple barrel collection in short order. Switch barrel component rifles are like drugs. You say you only want one little sniff and a short while later you stick your whole head in the bag.

Isn't denial the first step to addiction?

Terry

quote:

Originally posted by ron williams: Switch barrel component rifles are like drugs. You say you only want one little sniff and a short while later you stick your whole head in the bag.

So true..

TC1
Speaking of addictions, you are well aware of mine-MS Mod. 1952.
I never thought about the balance/handling characteristics of the Merkel model w/ steel housing, but can see that would come into play. I do have a strong liking for the color casehardening finish and we have a Cabella's some few hrs. away and after first of year will go and inspect one.

martin

Speaking of that rifle, has it arrived yet?

Terry

Terry,
No sir, but would think it to arrive either today or tomorrow. Hope so for I will need a little time to wrap it up nicely and place under the tree you know, "from me to me."
If I should end up with one of the Merkels I will not place them close to each other in the cabinet for might generate some lingering European hostilities between Germany and Austria. They would represent two entirely different approaches to sporting rifles, no question about that.
If the rifle arrives today, will drop you a PM for sure. later,

martin

quote:

Originally posted by MFD:
Looking for feedback on subject rifle and input as to how the rifle functions, accuracy, overall quality, etc. Like the somewhat radical appearance and like Merkels, but sold off some other rifles and may put part of the proceeds to one of their Stutzen models. All input appreciated. Not sure of which caliber, but may opt for 7x57 or 270Win.

martin

MFD,

TC1 was mentioning me when speaking of the KR1's. I actually went down to GSI and handle a number of the KR1s. Like you, I wanted the Stutzen model but the regular rifle just handled much better. Ended up purchasing a 9.3x62 plus a 270 win barrel. I have only shot a few rounds of each to start breaking in the barrels and really have no results to share as far as accuracy goes.

My significant other thinks it was her rifle but she says it does not fit her properly...go figure. So if you are interested in purchasing one, as I described, let me know. The rifle is like NIB with box and paper work. It also comes with a set of detachable mounts.

By the way TC1 is as fine a guy as I have ever come across.

I have a regular model KR-1 in .270

A really nice rifle. Shoots 3/4" 100 yard groups with 140gr rem safari grade swift a-frames.

Me and my old man went to the range when I first got it in. He's a Blaser guy, when shooting and comparing the two rifles we found the Merkel to be equal to the Blaser in every respect.

I actually prefer the safety on the Merkel (tang) to any other type. I got mine with a mount and lowly zeiss conquest 3x9 for $1750, best deal I ever made on a rifle.

Online cabelas seem to quote too much for these guns - look on gunbroker and you should be able to get them for around 1700 for the basic rifle like I have.

They got some press when first introduced, but they never got the boost that the Blasers have (maybe because Blaser was first and already fills the same price point/rifle style niche market).

Naturally I can only speak for my particular sample, but the other comments I have been able to glean have so far always been positive.

.