granhaven,
A hearty welcome to the forum!

What a terrific first post and a very nice boar trophy as well!
Would love to see some detailed photos of your Merkels if you get a chance.
I am also a fan of the 7x65R, and have used an O/U double in that chambering for a number of years here in OZ.
You are right that it is a very versatile cartridge!