Quote:

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"Scope mounts for doubles and drillings are a problem if not ordered with the
rifle from the factory. We will only get involved with mounts if the scope
is supplied by the purchaser and the mounts and scope are fitted and zeroed
by Merkel."

"This no doubt seems over the top but with over 30 years in the firearms
industry the one thing we have learnt is that getting the correct mounts for
a double or drilling is not as simple as it first appears. Often the mounts
that are ordered are not the correct ones when it comes to fitting up the
scope due to the relationship between rings, bases and scope eye relief . We
can not return rings to Merkel should they be incorrect."

"May I suggest that you hold off until you get your rifle and have a chance
to consider the relationship between rings, bases and scope eye relief
before doing anything. In addition the rifle is designed and set up for
50-75m, a scope will not be much of any advantage at these ranges."

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Over the top? What do you reckon?

I think he underestimates his product and the intelligence of his customers with this dribble. His estimate of the cost of rings was also four times that of Graeme's. I am quite capable of reading measurements using a caliper and rule and doing some very basic calculations. And how is the factory going to know how my eye fits the rifle and where I would like it mounted if I'm not there too?? Ahhhh, maybe the price includes the return airfare for me to go with it to Germany for the fitting. That would explain a lot.

I'm not sure how to respond to him..... I wonder if I should contact Merkel in Germany for some advice?

In the meantime, everyone with a Merkel in 9.3x74R, be warned that your rifle is useless beyond 75 metres.