$800 for a Sauer Royal with ejectors? I think you got a great deal! The shotguns made in Suhl Germany, i.e. Sauer, Merkel and Simson are very similar and while not as graceful as a "fine" double but their handling is good. The Suhl guns are however very strong!
For $800 the older Suhl guns have much better workmanship than the new Huglu's which although larger in frame, appear to be of the same design. Maybe its the sling swivels that detract from thier value in the USA market? Ha ha! I sure found the swivels very functional walking back to the truck with a limit of pheasants or when up to my waist in water in a (duck) slough!
I admit that I'm biased because I have 2 Merkel Model 8's and a 47E which are very similar in design to your new Sauer. I had Briley choke tubes installed in one of my M8's and the chambers legnthened to 3". That shotgun has spent many days in the layout blind and sloughs outside of Jamestown ND. Through it I've shot many rounds (through open chokes) of Hevi Shot at waterfowl. While not designed for steel shot it does have the German word for "Special Steel", SPECIAL-GEWEHRLAUFSTAHL, on one right barrel. With the Brileys it has held up very well.
Currently my large gunsafe is full and I'm considering selling a couple shotguns to make room for new ones. My Merkels are however not ever considered for sale. Dollar for dollar they are much, much too good a value!
