MANUFACTURER · UPDATED MAY 16, 2026
Used Merkel Values 2026:
Used Merkel Values 2026:
Every Model, Every Caliber.
Merkel was founded in 1898 in Suhl, Germany. Currently owned by Caracal International. Merkel produces premium-tier double-barrel shotguns, drillings (rifle/shotgun combinations), double rifles for African dangerous game, and the Helix straight-pull bolt-action rifle. The Model 47E and 247E side-by-sides, the 1620 / 2020 O/U series, and the K1 single-shot are all hand-built in Suhl. Premium German engraving available on all models.
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O/U Shotguns
Merkel's over/under shotgun line.
SxS Shotguns (Models 47, 147, 247)
Merkel's side-by-side shotgun production.
Double Rifles / Big Bore
Merkel's premium African and dangerous-game double rifles.
Bolt-Action / Single-Shot
Merkel's Helix straight-pull and K1 single-shot rifles.
Drillings / Combination Guns
Merkel's premium 3-barrel drillings.
Limited Editions / Engraved
Merkel hand-engraved presentation pieces — among the most-collected European hunting guns.
Merkel Value FAQ
Are Merkel double rifles practical?
Yes — for hunting African dangerous game (cape buffalo, elephant, brown bear in Alaska), where the ability to fire two rapid powerful shots is critical. Merkel doubles in .470 Nitro Express and .500 Nitro Express are working hunting tools. MSRP runs $9,000-22,000+; custom engraved $50,000-150,000+.
What is a drilling?
German tradition combination gun — typically two shotgun barrels (side-by-side) over a rifle barrel. Single trigger fires shotgun barrels; switch the selector to fire the rifle. Designed for European-style hunts where the shooter might encounter both upland birds and roe deer in the same day. Highly traditional German hunting equipment.
Where can I get Merkel rifles in the US?
Merkel USA (Trussville, Alabama, alongside Steyr Arms) is the exclusive U.S. importer. Limited stock; most rifles are special-order direct from Suhl, Germany with 6-18 month lead times.
What is the Helix?
Straight-pull bolt action that cycles in <0.5 seconds between shots. Tool-less barrel change for caliber conversion. Innovative German hunting platform competing with Blaser R8 and Sauer 404. MSRP $4,500-7,000.
