Merkel Model 190??

[Eddie Kay]

http:// Hello,I have a Merkel 190 Sporter in 30-06 made in 1922.I have full documentation from Merkel that includes it's work order card.What they couldn't tell me was approx. how many of these were made.Anyone have a clue? Thanks .

[ellenbr]

Could you post an in focus image of the work order card?


Kind Regards,

Raimey
rse

[Eddie Kay]

[Eddie Kay]

Hi Raimey,The fellow's at doublegun deciphered the card for me.Just wondering about possible production numbers.Iv'e never seen another.Seen other almost identical German sporters,but not Merkel.

[mike ford]

Eddie,
I suspect you will have a hard time finding out how many Model 190s Merkel made, if they don't have the records, its not likely anyone else does either. Usually when records are missing, "experts" try to determine how many and when different models were made, by studying serial numbers in relation to known factors. In the case of post WW1 rifles made on Mauser Mod 98 actions,serial numbers don't mean too much in this regard. Mauser tried to sell as many actions as they could to other makers, and they did sell some, but the most common source of actions was surplus military rifles. There were different makers of these actions and they didn't come into the shops in serial number order.The quickest way to tell if it is a commercial mauser action is to see if there is a separate number on the rear of the magazine box and behind the recoil lug. In your case, I doubt you will find this. From the photos, you can see stippling on the reciever ring. This is a tell tale sign that the original markings have been removed. Since comericial Mauser actions were more expensive, makers were unlikely to remove their markings, although some bought them w/o mauser markings( Rigby comes to mind). In this case there would be no need for the stippling.
This is only my opinion, and Axel may have more enlightening information. BTW, welcome to the forum.
Mike

[Eddie Kay]

Thanks for the info & welcome.