I had the opportunity to handle one of the new Merkel RX Helix rifles at the NRA convention last weekend. I must say, this is a most impressive design....and in my opinion is better than the Blaser R8.

Does anyone here own one yet?

Why do you feel it is better than the R8?

Well....

Firstly, swapping barrels is much faster with the Helix. The Merkel rep literally was able to do it right in front of me in less than 10 seconds without a single tool.

Secondly, I prefer the idea of not having an easily removable bolt (such as the R8's bolt) moving back toward my face when cycling rounds. The Blaser's bolt design also worries me, as far as risk for injury goes. I know it's not supposed to happen, but the possibility of the bolt flying into my face would always be in the back of my mind.

**Please take note that I have not fired either of these rifles, or taken them into the field. I merely fondled them at gun shows or in gun shops.

I just watched a YouTube video on the Helix. I thought that the fact that the bolt face was so easy to change was a very nice feature.

You are right, they are nice guns but at near $5,000, very pricey.

Dave, thanks for the tip about YouTube. Looks very nice to me. Incredible leverage on the bolt it seems to me. Not really impressed by QD scope, as each barrel will have its own POI. My Blaser has the scope mounted on the barrel and so that problem is solved. Still it is a nice looking rifle. Not sure I would by a Blaser at today's prices, and, perhaps the same with the Merkel.
Peter.