doublegunshop.com - home Forums General Discussion DoubleGun BBS @ doublegunshop.com Toplever left of center on new Merkel 1620

I agree, have it looked at. If ever sold the new buyer will look askance at the lever position.

Farts while opening Kraut shotguns ey? Isn't that word spelled Fhart in the German language-interesting concept- the Captain is "breaking wind" from his "Heinie" trying to open up his new Merkel O/U whilst the Katzenjammer twins are doubled over with laughter already- Phil Bourjaily wrote about the Merkel in his F&S 50 best shotty-gunz promo piece a while back-he couldn't get the forearm back on a brand NIB Merkel O/U and called the factory and spoke to a gunsmith there- who apparently told him-"You have to hit it very hard"--you might also try the new Hoppe's aerosol "dry oil" goes on clear and dries with a thin white film of lube on moving parts-that and having "Die Arnold" leave his desk and cigar in Sacramento and come over to serve as your "loader" for the next 10 years- that oughta smooth out that fine Kraut two-holer..

This problem is not a figment of my imagination. About 4 years ago I had to retun NIB condition plated BLE Modelo 122 because I could not put it together. Made me jump und spin like a Tasmanian Devil. Loud fart is one thing......, but I didn't want to pop a vessel. Reeeejected baby!

I'd really appreciate some help from anyone else with experience or informed opinion about the toplever on this new gun sitting left of center when the bolt is fully seated. Is there a way to determine whether this could be a real issue of bolt fit vs. an unfortunate cosmetic issue that would cause a potential a buyer to suspect excessive bolt/bite wear?

I looked over couple pieces today. One was NIB 280EL and second was 147SL with several thou shells though it. The BLE had lever to the right past top strap and x-bolt partly protruding despite the fact I have closed that gun smartly couple of times. Used SLE functioned nicely with lever being dead center after closing.
If your amigos gun is right-handed piece it looks like his gun has lever spring issue.
PS. While there I have found very early Model 12 16ga with "swan neck stock", 13 groove fe, and Mod. Nickel Steel barrel. I am looking forward to slam-firing that sucker!
Thank you, thank you, w/o your question I would have never found that gem.

Small claw hammer works best for adjustments


John