German Merkel 160AE Safari .416 Rigby 23 1/2″ Double Rifle & Leather Case
SOLD FOR: $9,550.00
LSB#: LSB250804MF178
Make: Merkel; Suhl, Germany
Model: 160AE, Safari
Serial Number: A16030
Year of Manufacture: Modern/Current Production
Caliber: .416 Rigby
Action Type: Box Lock, Greener Locking Mechanism with Double Underlug Locking. Break Action.
Markings: The top of the barrel rib is marked “Safari .416 Rigby”. The left side of the left barrel is marked “GSI Inc. T’ville AL / GEBR. MERKEL SUHL / MADE IN GERMANY”. The right side of the right barrel is marked “Krupp Stahl”. Inside of the receiver on the left side is marked with the serial number. The top side of the forearm is marked with the serial number. The underside of both barrels, by the locking lugs, is marked “.416 Rigby”. The entire receiver, locking lever, tangs, forend locking lever, and trigger guard have been elegantly hand engraved. The left side of the receiver has been engraved with a rhino scene, and the right side of the receiver has been engraved with a lion scene.
Barrel Length: 23 1/2″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a patridge blade, inserted into the barrel rib. The rear sight is a square-notch express style sight, with an extra flip-up leaf, dovetailed to the barrel rib.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a two-piece checkered Grade III / IV walnut stock set, with a capped semi-pistol grip, fluted straight comb, rubber buttpad, and sling rings front and rear. The LOP measures 14 3/8″ from the front of the front trigger to the back of the buttpad, and 13 3/8″ from the front of the back trigger to the back of the buttpad. The stocks show light wear with only a few handling marks present, and one scuff on the comb of the buttstock. The stock’s finish is strong throughout, and the checkering is well defined. the stocks fit the frame tightly, with no play. However, the stock is cracked at the top of the wrist, just behind the receiver on both sides. The worst crack stretches from the back of the receiver on the left side, and wraps around the wrist and ends at the top tang. This crack measures approximately 3 1/2″. The other crack on the right side of the stock, just behind the receiver measures 2 1/2″. Overall, the stocks rate in Fair condition, due to the cracks. Note- these cracks may not be very visible in the pictures.
Type of Finish: Blued, Stainless
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in either bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bores rate 10/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its original metal finish. the balance of the finish shows no notable wear. The bluing is deep and dark throughout both barrels. The hand engravings are vivid, and present extreme detail. The markings are clear and legible. The screw heads are sharp and the pins are unmarred. Overall, this rifle rates in Good to Very Good condition. This rating is due to the cracks in the stock.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle, but we did perform a mechanic’s check. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with its original leather takedown case. The leather case shows some wear, but rates in Very Good condition overall.
Our Assessment: Few rifles embody the romance and authority of the African safari era quite like a Merkel double rifle. The 160AE Safari model stands as a modern continuation of the Suhl, Germany gunmaking tradition — combining the precision of German engineering with the artistry of old-world engraving and stockmaking. Merkel’s reputation for crafting dangerous game doubles is unmatched in its price class, and this example, chambered in .416 Rigby, represents one of the most capable and respected big-bore configurations ever produced.
The .416 Rigby, introduced in 1911, is synonymous with African dangerous game hunting. Known for its manageable recoil and tremendous stopping power, it earned legendary status in the hands of professional hunters like John “Pondoro” Taylor, who praised its deep penetration and reliability under the harshest field conditions. Paired with Merkel’s robust boxlock action, Greener-style crossbolt, and double underlug locking system, this rifle is purpose-built to deliver instant, dependable follow-up shots when they matter most.
This particular 160AE Safari rifle is visually stunning, featuring deeply detailed hand engraving depicting a rhino on one side and a lion on the other, surrounded by traditional scrollwork. The rifle retains nearly all of its blued and stainless finish, and the bores are immaculate — each a mirror of precision. While the wrist shows two cracks that warrant professional attention, the rifle remains a striking piece of craftsmanship, blending functionality with artistry. Complete with its original leather takedown case, this Merkel double stands as both a collector’s showpiece and a working symbol of the great safari rifles of the modern age. We strongly suggest a qualified gunsmith inspect the buttstock on this rifle before any attempt is made to use or shoot it. Please check out our high quality photos, and good luck on your bids! – J.D.
