My wife just allowed (she actually encouraged!) me to buy a double rifle, and so now I am the proud owner of a Merkel 140-1, in 9.3x74R. It was made in 2001, and is in pristine condition, but I didn't get any of the factory paperwork (like the signed target or regulating load data).

I'm trying to locate info about what loads they used to regulate the barrels, so I can load my own. I contacted the factory (and GSI) several weeks ago, but nobody has come up with an answer as of yet. So far, factory loads (Norma, 286gr) are not very impressive for accuracy, but the gun is fun to shoot and make noise with anyway (and always turns heads at the range).

Any help with identifying the original factory loads used for the initial regulation would be appreciated... as would any reloading data that matches those ballistics.

I've tried a few reduced handloads (250gr), but they seem to be even worse than factory ammo as far as accuracy and consistency go (they are easier on shoulder, though). A 15" spread between barrels (at 100 yds) seems excessive (even though some of that spread is undoubtedly "shooter wobble")

I saw in an article somewhere that one person was shooting DWM 247 gr in his Merkel, and thought I'd try them (if I can find some anywhere).

Any knowledge of specific loads used by Merkel, and/or other suggestions appreciated...

regards,

Jim Owen
Juneau, Alaska (Direct email: jimowen@swbell.net)

I would try RWS 19,0g TUG, or 18,5g TMR first.

I am no expert, but I have read in European, mainly French, souces that shooting technique can strongly affect apparent regulation.

Shots from the two barrels should be fired within a few seconds of each other. No addtional shots should be fired until the barrels have completely cooled down. This is the way European double rifles, i.e. "express rifles" are intended to be used on driven game and how they are regulated. Temperature effects can supposedly lead to what seem to be regulation problems if these procedures are not carefully followed.


Support can also be important as express rifles are obviously intended to be fired in an off-hand position.

Be sure you do not shoot from a standard bench position. Any shooting position that impedes the natural recoil of the rifle will effect regulation. If you shoot from the bench, turn your sandbag sideways and rest your leading hand on the bag thus allowing the rifle to be free to recoil. Don't allow the butt stock to touch or be held by anything but your shoulder. Good luck.

Best,
David

Thanks! All good advice (that I haven't been following religiously - but will try it) I hadn't even considered the compounded effects of unsymetrical heating (i.e., one barrel heating and pulling the other one off a bit)

Jim