I know a well respected gunsmith who says that the later Merkels are often off the face right out of the factory, and they no longer build a bit of taper into the action...loosen up right away, accordingly.

That is his observation, and he is one of the better double rifle smiths in the US.

Re: Blazer...I love drillings, but can't hardly look at the Balzers. They are far to muzzle heavy, too.