The deed has been done! After two years of research and questions, a deposit has been placed on a new Merkel 140 double rifle in 9.3 x 74R. Delivery time is 12 - 18 months. Options asked for are: red recoil pad, express sights, and ejectors. I know ejectors are frowned upon by many, but I thought better to have them, and if I need to change , it is easier to change to non-ejectors than do the opposite. Engraving is the basic level only. Engraving can be nice, but it is expensive.

The rifle has been ordered through Pine River Gunsmiths, a half hour drive out of Brisbane. Thanks, Dale, for your help. Thanks, Watto, you helped me make up my mind to go ahead.

All I need do now is wait!

PS Granite Arms import Merkels, and were really helpful. They sent up a 140A in .470 NE (very rare to have a spare rifle available) for me to examine. It was great, fully engraved, but without a recoil pad(ouch!). I was tempted, but commonsense won out - a 9.3 is more usable for my needs.