Rex-Merrill Sportsman 9″ .22 Hornet Tip-Up Single Shot Pistol & Barrels
SOLD FOR: $1,136.11
LSB#: WY250210SM055
Make: Merrill Co. Inc.
Model: Rex-Merrill Sportsman
Serial Number: 3200479
Year of Manufacture: 1970s
Caliber: .22 Hornet
Action Type: Break Action, Single Shot, Striker Fired Pistol.
Markings: The barrel is marked, “SPORTSMAN 22 HORNET”. The left side of the frame is marked, “REX MERRILL PISTOL MFG. BY MERRILL CO. INC. ROCKWELL CITY, CA” with patent dates. The right side of the receiver is marked, “SPORTSMAN 3200479”.
Barrel Length: 9”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a tall blade fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is an adjustable square notch dovetailed to the barrel.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are 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 faint erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates at a 9/10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 96% of its metal finish. There are light scratches, nicks, and thinning throughout. The barrel screw has been replaced, and the trigger is jeweled. 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: 9” .256 Win. Mag. barrel in Good condition, 9” .30 Herrett in Very Good condition.
Our Assessment: Rex-Merrill Sportsman is a highly specialized single-shot pistol, designed for precision shooting, handgun hunting, and metallic silhouette competition. Built with a tip-up action, this firearm provides a strong, secure lock-up that enhances accuracy and reliability, making it a top choice for serious marksmen and hunters. Known for its exceptional craftsmanship and durable construction, the Rex-Merrill Sportsman was designed to maximize long-range performance, offering superior shot placement and stability in a single-shot platform. One of the defining features of the Rex-Merrill Sportsman is its tip-up barrel design, which simplifies loading and unloading while ensuring consistent barrel alignment for precision shooting. The heavy barrel profile aids in recoil control and stability, allowing shooters to maintain tight groupings even with high-powered calibers. Many of these pistols were equipped with adjustable sights or optic mounts, making them ideal for both competition and hunting applications. The well-balanced frame and ergonomic grip help absorb recoil, providing a comfortable and controlled shooting experience.
For shooters and collectors seeking a premium single-shot pistol, the Rex-Merrill Sportsman is a standout choice. Its blend of precision engineering, solid construction, and proven accuracy makes it a highly sought-after firearm for both hunting and competitive shooting. Whether used for big-game handgun hunting, long-range silhouette shooting, or as a unique collector’s piece, this pistol represents the pinnacle of specialized single-shot firearm design. Its combination of power, accuracy, and reliability ensures that it remains a respected and desirable firearm among enthusiasts and serious shooters alike. -R.E.
