Gebrüder Merkel Drilling Luxus Grade, 16 Gauge/9.3x72R, 28 inch Barrels, 1944 German Tri-Barrel, Factory Engraved
This Gebrüder Merkel Drilling Luxus Grade is a WWII-era, German-made tri-barrel combination gun proofed in July 1944 at Suhl/Zella-Mehlis. It features factory scroll engraving across the action and furniture, twin 16-gauge barrels over a 9.3x72R rifle barrel, and classic external side hammers with an underlever opener. Collectors will appreciate its period nitro proofs, detailed finish work, and well-executed drilling configuration.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: This firearm is in great shape especially considering its age. There are many instances of scratches and blemishes present. The bores are clean and shiny. Pitting and patina are present.
What’s Included
- Gebrüder Merkel Drilling Luxus Grade tri-barrel combination gun (16 Gauge/9.3x72R)
This drilling uses a traditional layout with twin 16-gauge side-by-side shotgun barrels over a 9.3x72R rifle barrel positioned at 6 o'clock. The barrels measure 28 inches, and the breechface is fitted with triple firing pins to serve each barrel. Capacity is three rounds, one per barrel. The 16-gauge chambers are 2.75 inches.
The action is a break-open underlever design integrated with the trigger guard and paired with back-action sidelocks and external side hammers. It has double triggers. Sighting is via iron sights with a rib-mounted rear sight leaf on a matted top rib for a clean, glare-reducing sighting plane. The forend is a splinter type with an engraved latch.
As a Luxus Grade example, this piece is factory-engraved with scrollwork on the action, locks, trigger guard, and forend iron. The engraving and overall execution reflect the high-end finish work associated with Suhl craftsmen of the period.
The stock is checkered walnut with a pistol grip and a right-side cheekpiece, bordered checkering, and a steel buttplate. Sling swivels are installed. Length of pull is 13.5 inches, offering a compact and handy fit.
Proof marks include the eagle over N nitro proof and a 7.44 date stamp, indicating July 1944 proof at Suhl/Zella-Mehlis. Made in Germany during the WWII era, this drilling combines period markings with a desirable multi-barrel configuration and classic German gunmaking details.