Blackbear,

One think everyone can agree on is that the Merkels are working guns. I really suggest you watch the oiling - except the bores. The hidden parts of the stock are not finnished and will soak up any oil, which has a tendancy to migrate. Saying that, store your gun on its muzzle. A good coat of wax will protect the wood and metal better than oil. The british museum of history waxes all there firearms to preserve them. It's a pain in the butt to do, but lasts for a very long time. You'll only have to do it once per year.

BTW
I am thinking of hosting a DR shoot early next year in Charlotte NC, are you interested?
B.