Ripp,

I like the K-gun combi/cocking device. I'm not a traditionalist when it comes to doubles. I actually like the 500/416 as well. Rigby performance in a double gun? What's not to like.

The Merkel has a bit of extra drop at the heel which some think makes the perceived recoil more intense. Could be. I've just gotten used to mine. That drop fits my body structure however as I can throw the gun up to the shoulder with eyes closed, open them and be lined up perfectly with the sights, similar to the way a nice SxS shotgun should be.