A couple of years ago I bought a Russian IZH-54, which I learned was essentially a transplanted Communist Sauer. I shoot the gun well and like the style. That got me curious about Sauers so I picked up a 1960 East German Sauer from Simpson Ltd ($375 shipped with nice bluing, some case hardening and a repaired stock). Shot it for the first time this weekend. Really liked the gun. It seems to fit me well. I like the weight and style.
Now I want to learn more about Sauer shotguns -- and other, similar Germanic guns. I gather searching this forum and Shotgun World that the pre-war guns are preferred and that the quality is higher. Aside from general, buy a pre-war gun advice, what do I need to know about Sauers. Also, how does Merkel fit in. The internet chatter suggests that during the post-war era the Merkels, Sauers and Simpsons were all coming out of the same factory and were essentially equal guns. Is that true?
So, what years Sauers/Merkels should I be looking at if I want to add another one to the stable? Is there a Golden era? What about the different models? Within the East German years, are some better than others? When did quality drop/improves, etc.
Also, what about the modern era? Should I also look at Sauers/Merkels made after the wall came down?
Is there an online source that traces the history and development of these guns? Alternatively, are there any recommended books.
If it matters, I'm a skeet, sporting clays, 5-stand shooter but I like side by sides. I'm primarily a 12-gauge shooter.
In short, school me on German doubles.
Last edited by bladeswitcher; 08/07/17 08:37 AM.
