Considering a Merkel 96K drilling. If I go with the Merkel in 12 X 12 X 30-06 the weight is 7 lbs. 4 oz. Barrel length just under 24 ".
The drillings in 16 X 16 X centerfire rifle weight is between 6 lbs 12 oz to over 7 lbs. How important is the this weight difference?
The Merkel has the rifle barrel and shotgun barrel cocking on the top of the action plate (safety).
Comments welcomed.

Jim, I doubt you will notice the weight difference. You may notice the difference in bulk. The barrel set in 12 gauge is quite a bit bulkier than in 16 or 20. However, if you're going to be shooting big game or 3" turkey loads, etc...you'll appreciate the extra few ounces.

I prefer the alloy guns in 16 or 20 gauge over a medium caliber. These weight 6 1/2 to 6 3/4 lbs and are lighter for walking behind dogs and they handle closer to a shotgun. But, it depends on the shooter.

Go for it and enjoy!!!

I no longer own a 12ga. drilling. They are just too bulky for me, and like was said, the 16ga. drillings just feels waaaaaaaay better in the hands.

DM

I would still like a 96 in the short version, with the top barrels as 20ga and the bottom as either 22 Hornet or 9.3x74R...

I have drillings and combo guns in 12 and 20ga.

I much prefer them to 16ga as it is just too hard to find 16ga ammo around here.

A drilling in 12x12x 9,3x74R, or 30/06 would be just about perfect IMHO.

My wifes favorite hunting gun is her Sauer Drilling,in 12x12x30/06, with a 4x Kahles in claw mounts.

Dave, I agree with you on the 20-gauge over 9.3x74, but could not afford one. I did find a really nice 96K in 16-gauge over 9.3x74R that I could afford. It has been fitted with a Leupold 1.75x5 scope in swing mounts. It should be here in about a month and I will post pictures upon its arrival.

quote:

Originally posted by N E 450 No2:
I have drillings and combo guns in 12 and 20ga.

I much prefer them to 16ga as it is just too hard to find 16ga ammo around here.

I find at least some 16ga. ammo where ever i travel in the states, so i don't find having a 16ga. a problem at all. And then there's the net, where you can order any kind of 16ga. ammo you would ever want.

DM