Rock Pistol Mfg. Rex-Merrell Sportsman .44 Mag Single Shot Tip-Up Pistol
SOLD FOR: $1,325.00
LSB#: WY250210SM014
Make: Rock Pistol Mfg.
Model: Rex-Merrill Sportsman
Serial Number: 12223479
Year of Manufacture: 1978 to 1985
Caliber: .44 Magnum/.357 Magnum/.22 LR/.32 H&R Magnum
Action Type: Break Action, Single Shot, Striker Fired Pistol.
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked, “SPORTSMAN 44 MAG”. The left side of the frame is marked, “REX-MERRILL PISTOL MFG. BY ROCK PISTOL MFG.FULLERTON, CA”. The right side is marked with patents and, “12223479 / SPORTSMAN”.
Barrel Length: 9.25”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a tall half-moon blade fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is an adjustable square notch.
Stock Configuration & Condition: This 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
.44 Mag. Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is light erosion and stubborn fouling in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates at a 9/10
.357 Mag. Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore but there is some faint fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates at a 9.5/10
.32 H&R Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore but there is some stubborn lead fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates at a 9/10
.22 LR Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore but there is some light fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates at a 9/10
.22 LR 2 Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore but there is some light fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates at a 9/10
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 95% of its metal finish. There are faint scratches and light wear marks throughout. There are some rub marks on the barrel and frame. The markings are clear. The screw heads are sharp. Overall, this pistol rates in at about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action does not function as intended as the grips interfere with the safety lever. 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: Soft case, 4 extra barrels.
Our Assessment: The Rock Pistol Mfg. Rex-Merrill Single Shot Tip-Up Pistol is a fascinating and scarce example of mid-20th century American firearms ingenuity, designed for target shooting and small-game hunting. Produced in limited numbers, this single-shot pistol features a tip-up barrel design, allowing for easy loading and unloading, making it a practical choice for precision shooting applications. Unlike traditional single-shot pistols with break-action or falling-block mechanisms, the tip-up barrel system provides a simple yet effective method of operation, reducing complexity while maintaining excellent accuracy. While not as well-known as major manufacturers, Rock Pistol Mfg. and Rex-Merrill-designed firearms hold a place in the niche world of specialty single-shot handguns. One of the defining characteristics of this pistol is its well-balanced frame and precise barrel alignment, which contribute to consistent accuracy and manageable recoil, especially when paired with rimfire or light centerfire cartridges. The tip-up design not only makes for quick loading but also facilitates easy maintenance and cleaning. Depending on its configuration, the Rex-Merrill pistol may feature iron sights or scope mounting provisions, enhancing its role as a target or varmint pistol. The craftsmanship and materials used in its construction suggest a focus on quality over mass production, making surviving examples particularly interesting for collectors.
For those who appreciate unique and lesser-known American firearms, the Rex-Merrill Single Shot Tip-Up Pistol is a standout piece. It represents a time when smaller manufacturers experimented with innovative designs, catering to marksmen looking for simple, reliable single-shot handguns. While it may not have achieved widespread recognition, its mechanical simplicity, ease of use, and historical novelty make it a desirable collector’s item. Whether valued for its scarcity, functionality, or historical significance, this pistol is a reminder of the ingenuity and craftsmanship that defined mid-century American gun-making. -R.E.
