I really appreciate the replies, But NONE of them ANSWER the questions that I initially asked; IE; Does anyone own, know somebody, heard a rumor or anything else about the quality, durability, and dependability of the early Searcy .470 rifles built on the Browning BSS shotgun action? This is all I am really trying to find out, not spread rumors about Merkles quality. I have not been offered a Merkle, Have no interest in one at this time! I even replied again and cleared up all aspects of why I wanted to know about the early Searcy, that I had a line on one for a reasonable price and that I am trying to do my homework before buying, because as I have read on here so often, you really need to thoroughly check out all aspects of any double that you are contemplating the purchase of. I will not take the word of only one person, if there are others out there that have knowledge. That is why I posted this question here, to utilize the vast experience of folks that know far more than I do about these types of rifles, before I jump off and invest in something that might not be viable in the long term. I really would like to get some input as I am running out of time! Can anyone direct me to an unbiased expert or dealer that could answer my questions? Thanks. Lee.