Since Winchester quit being Winchester in 1963, the 870 has been THE pump shotgun. The regular 870 is still a very good gun, but not as good as it once was. If you read carefully, you will notice that I was talking about their price point gun, the 870 express. The Kreighoff K-80 is a standard of the trap range, but I don't like much about their DR's.

This isn't about pump shotguns. It's about double rifles.

I know what I saw. I saw problems that in fact exist. I have owned Merkels

, and now own a Merkel. I had a SXS in 9,3 that was a good rifle. I am concerned over what I think might be a bad trend, that's all. I have shot the bigger Merkels, and liked the gun in concept. I would not now buy one, however.

Many don't like the Valmets and Tikkas. I have had great experience with them and use them hard. I have heard of problems with the soft steel scope mounts and ribs from people who's opinion I completely trust. I've never had any problems, however. Maybe the reality of this argument lies somewhere in the middle...???

There is a reason why they make Fords and Chevys, and in different colors...