Merrill Co. Inc. Rex-Merrill Sportsman 256 Magnum Tip-Up Single Shot 1970s
SOLD FOR: $1,001.03
LSB#: WY250210SM065
Make: Merrill Co.
Model: Rex-Merrill Sportsman
Serial Number: 0502778
Year of Manufacture: 1970s
Caliber: .256 Magnum
Action Type: Break Action, Single Shot, Striker Fired Pistol.
Markings: The barrel is marked, “SPORTSMAN .256 MAGNUM”. The left side of the frame is marked, “REX MERRILL PISTOL / MERRILL MFG. CO. INC. / ROCKWELL CITY IOWA” with patent dates. The right side of of the receiver is marked, “0502778”.
Barrel Length: 9”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to the barrel. There is a dovetailed weaver mount with a Redfield 2 1/2x pistol scope mounted to it.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are a two piece walnut panels with a thumb shelf on the left side. There are light handling marks throughout. There are no chips or cracks. Overall the grip set rates in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates at a 9.5/10
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 97% of its metal finish. There are faint handling wear marks throughout. The markings are clear. The screw heads are lightly tooled. Overall, this pistol rates in at about Very Good to Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions as intended. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Merrill Co. Inc. Rex-Merrill Sportsman in .256 Magnum is a fascinating example of a precision-engineered single-shot pistol, designed for varmint hunting, target shooting, and long-range handgun applications. Built with a tip-up action, this firearm allows for easy loading and unloading, while maintaining a strong and reliable lock-up capable of handling high-velocity cartridges like the .256 Winchester Magnum. Known for its flat trajectory and impressive accuracy, the .256 Magnum was a favorite among handgun hunters and target shooters seeking rifle-like performance in a compact platform. The Rex-Merrill Sportsman was developed to cater to these enthusiasts, offering a well-balanced, high-quality pistol built for precision. One of the standout features of the Rex-Merrill Sportsman is its tip-up barrel design, which not only simplifies loading but also enhances barrel stability and accuracy by eliminating moving parts during firing. The longer barrel profile allows the .256 Magnum cartridge to achieve its full ballistic potential, delivering high velocity and flat-shooting performance, making it an ideal choice for long-range handgun shooting. Many of these pistols were equipped with adjustable sights or scope mounts, further enhancing their precision capabilities. The high-quality metalwork and ergonomic grip ensure comfortable handling, while the solid frame construction contributes to durability and recoil management.
For those who appreciate specialty single-shot handguns, the Rex-Merrill Sportsman in .256 Magnum is a standout piece, combining a rare and powerful chambering with an innovative and practical design. It represents an era when handgun hunting and long-range pistol shooting were growing in popularity, and manufacturers sought to create firearms that could bridge the gap between traditional revolvers and precision rifles. Whether acquired for its historical value, unique action, or impressive accuracy, this pistol remains a highly desirable firearm for collectors and shooters who appreciate high-velocity handgun performance and expert craftsmanship. -R.E.
