I'll be the first to chime in.

First, you will hear a lot of talk about the Merkel DRs being made on their shtogun actions. Some say this is true, others say it is BS. I have no specific knowledge so i can't give a technical opinion about it.

What I can tell you is this: I bought a Merkel after looking at and shooting other DRs. The Merkel just LOOKED and FELT the best for me. In my opinion, the Chapuis is "goofy" looking. The fore end is way too long and curves up around the barrels - not very asthetically pleasing to my eye.

Now, the Merkel is much slimmer than a lot of other DR actions. Some people think this is a plus, others a negative. I personally love the way it feels. My .500 NE is slightly over 10 lbs.

I do recommend getting a recoil installed if you go with a Merkel.

Merkel has the Greener Cross Bolt and Chopper Lump Barrels (if I'm not mistaken).

Some people say that the Merkels come off face quickly. There are a number of other gentlemen on this forum who own Merkels and have large numbers of big bore rounds fired through theirs - they are still on face. And, the action is still tight. Mine is still tight after A LOT of rounds.

This is just the rantings of little old me. Take it for what it is worth. But I recommend that you handle and shoot both types before you make any decision on buying.

Are you considering a Searcy also???