Merkel Model 140AE Safari Arabesque Edition .375 H&H Magnum Double Rifle
SOLD FOR: $8600
LSB#: 230321WW036
Make: Merkel Jagd- und Sportwaffen
Model: 140AE Arabesque Edition
Serial Number: A375307
Year of Manufacture: Ca. 2006-2008
Caliber: .375 H&H Magnum
Action Type: Boxlock, Side by Side, Dual Trigger, Double Rifle with Ejectors & Cocking Indicators
Barrel Length: 23 5/8″ (60 cm)
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass beaded blade in-line dovetailed to a ramped base integral to the barrels’ rib. The rear sight is an Express-style sight with a fixed “V”-notch and two folding “V”-notch leaves marked “50” and “75”, respectively. The rear sight assembly is dovetailed to the rib.
Weight: 10 lb., 9 oz.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece checkered walnut with capped pistol grip, straight comb with cheekpiece, Wegu Elastik Schaftkappe black rubber buttpad with black plastic heel-cap and a sling swivel mounted in the belly (the other is mounted to the bottom barrel rib forward of the forend. The stocks have a few scattered minor nicks and scratches, most notable in the bottom-front of the forend. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 14 1/2″ and 13 1/2″ from the fronts of the triggers to the back of the buttpad. The pad has faint wear and is still supple. Overall, the stocks are in Fine-Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blue & Coin
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bores. In this writer’s opinion, the bores rate 10 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. There is some surface oxidation on the face of the muzzle. Otherwise, there are only light handling marks. The action shows faint operational wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions properly. The barrels lock up with no play with each barrel set. The triggers are light and crisp. We have not fired this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with a canvas and leather zipper case with accessory pocket.
Our Assessment: The name Merkel has been around in Suhl for more than 200 years, with several different “Merkels” being known for making high quality sporting arms. Gebrüder Merkel, today known as Merkel Jagd- und Sportwaffen, is the only one which has stood the test of time. Surviving two world wars, Soviet occupation and the East German state, it is still around to this day!
This is a wonderful example of the quality Merkel is known for. A Model 140 AE Arabesque Edition, it is a double-rifle chambered for the potent .375 H&H Magnum cartridge, a classic safari round. The rifle has blued barrels and a coin receiver, set off nicely by some light scroll engraving. The action locks up like a bank vault and the bores are still in excellent shape. The rifle doesn’t appear to have seen much use, itself in overall Excellent condition. For those who are familiar with double rifles, you’ll be happy to know that Merkel developed a hinged front trigger, so you needn’t worry about busting a knuckle when you fire the rear trigger. The rifle comes with a nice case for storage and transport, and is ready for your next safari. Please see our photos and good luck!
