Merkel 200E 12g 2-3/4" 28" Shotgun 36129

The Enduring Legacy of a Merkel 200E: A Deep Dive into German Craftsmanship

The Merkel 200E 12 gauge shotgun, particularly with 2-3/4" chambers and 28" barrels, is a testament to the long and storied tradition of German gunmaking. Merkel shotguns are renowned for their robust construction, elegant aesthetics, and superb handling. Let's explore what makes a Merkel 200E, like the one with serial number 36129, a prized possession for collectors and shooters alike.

The Merkel Heritage: Suhl's Finest

To truly appreciate a Merkel, one must understand its origins. Merkel Jagd- und Sportwaffen GmbH was founded in Suhl, Thuringia, Germany, in 1898 by the brothers Albert Oskar, Karl Paul, and Gebhard Merkel. Suhl has been a hub of gun manufacturing for centuries, and the Merkel brothers built upon this rich heritage.

From the outset, Merkel focused on innovation, particularly with their "Bock" (over-and-under) rifles, a design that revolutionized sport and hunting shooting. The company established a reputation for producing "fine guns" – richly adorned and elegantly designed hunting weapons, even during wartime when they primarily served as parts suppliers for military production to maintain their quality and reputation.

Even through the challenges of two World Wars and the period under East German state ownership, Merkel managed to preserve its unique blend of high-tech forging and traditional gunsmithing. Their commitment to craftsmanship and quality ensured that Merkel firearms, including the 200E, remained highly sought after worldwide, even earning recognition from prominent figures like Dwight D. Eisenhower and Nikita S. Khrushchev, who were gifted Merkel hunting rifles.

The Merkel 200E: A Closer Look

The "200E" designation in a Merkel shotgun provides specific insights into its construction and features:

• "200" Series: This generally indicates an over-and-under shotgun with a "Blitz action" and "Double Kersten locks." The Blitz action is a robust and reliable boxlock mechanism. Double Kersten locks refer to a strong locking system that engages lugs on the barrel with recesses in the receiver, providing excellent lock-up and durability.

• "E" Suffix: This signifies that the shotgun is equipped with ejectors, meaning spent cartridges are automatically ejected when the action is opened, as opposed to simply being extracted.

  
  

Key Specifications of a Merkel 200E 12g 2-3/4" 28" Shotgun:

• Gauge: 12 Gauge, one of the most versatile and popular shotgun gauges, suitable for a wide range of shooting disciplines from upland hunting to clays.

• Chambers: 2-3/4" chambers, meaning it's designed for standard modern shotgun shells. While some older shotguns may have shorter chambers, 2-3/4" is common and offers a vast selection of ammunition.

• Barrel Length: 28 inches. This is a very popular and well-balanced barrel length for an all-around shotgun, offering a good compromise between swing dynamics for moving targets and portability in the field. Merkel barrels are known for their cold hammer-forged steel and demibloc construction, indicating superior manufacturing quality.

• Triggers: Most Merkel 200E models feature double triggers, an enduring classic feature that provides reliable mechanical operation and allows the shooter to select which barrel to fire first by simply choosing the appropriate trigger. Some later models or custom orders might have a single selective trigger.

• Ejectors: As indicated by the "E" in 200E, this model will have automatic ejectors, a convenience for faster reloading, especially in competitive shooting or active hunting.

• Engraving: Merkel shotguns are renowned for their attractive engraving. The 200E typically features light scroll or arabesque engraving, showcasing the artistry of Merkel's master engravers. Higher grades might boast more elaborate game scene engraving.

• Woodwork: The stocks and forends are typically crafted from quality walnut, often with fine hand-checkering for a secure grip. The pistol grip and three-piece forend are common features.

• Weight: A 12 gauge Merkel 200E with 28" barrels usually weighs in the range of 6.5 to 7.5 pounds, making it a comfortable gun to carry in the field while still having enough mass to absorb recoil effectively.

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Dating Your Merkel: Serial Number 36129

While a definitive manufacturing date for serial number 36129 would typically require consulting Merkel's archives directly (which can often be done by contacting Merkel Jagd- und Sportwaffen GmbH with the full serial number), we can provide some general context.

Merkel, like many European gunmakers, often uses date codes stamped on the barrel or receiver (usually a two or three-digit code) in addition to the serial number. For example, "169" might indicate January 1969.

Looking at historical serialization ranges for Merkel, a serial number in the 36,000s or low 40,000s would likely place its manufacture sometime in the mid to late 1960s. For instance, some records show serial numbers in the 67,000 range for 1969. This makes your 36129 a classic, potentially from a period when Merkel was operating as a state-owned enterprise in East Germany, yet still upholding its high standards for export quality. Guns produced during this era often carried a "1Q" (or stylized Q1) mark, signifying "1st Quality" or "Quality 1," a stamp reserved for export-grade firearms to earn valuable hard currency.

Why a Merkel 200E is Special

The Merkel 200E is considered a "do-it-all" double gun by many. Its balanced design, durable action, and versatile 12 gauge chambering make it suitable for a variety of pursuits, from upland bird hunting to clay target shooting. The craftsmanship, evident in the precise barrel fitting, the smooth action, and the elegant finishing, sets Merkel apart. These shotguns are known for their longevity and are often passed down through generations.

Owning a Merkel 200E is more than just owning a firearm; it's possessing a piece of gunmaking history, a testament to German engineering and artistry that has stood the test of time. For the individual holding serial number 36129, it represents a tangible link to a legacy of quality and a finely crafted instrument designed for generations of enjoyment.

This item is lot #1251 in our upcoming Guns & Militaria Auction on June 21-22 at Donley Auctions.