Manual

barrel lugs are designed for gradual wear of locking surfaces and may

therefore exhibit tight fitting characteristics during initial use. The close

tolerances of these locking surfaces ensure that the breech of the firearm

remains tight throughout use.

When closing the breech of the action let the top lever move freely to

its locked (in line with the safety) position (see figure 4). Do not restrain

its travel with your thumb.

It is recommended that the top lever be indexed to the left with slight

finger or thumb pressure to make sure that the bolt is fully closed. If the

bolt does not fully close it is possible dirt or debris have accumulated to a

level preventing full closure of the breech. In this condition, open the

action and unload the firearm. Carefully inspect the action and remove

any dirt or debris. Keep the breech surface clean and lightly lubricated.

EJECTORS

Most Merkel Side-by-Side Shotguns are equipped with automatic ejec-

tors. On these models, spent shells will be thrown out of the chamber

automatically when the action is fully opened after firing. Be careful to

position the breech away from your face when unloading the firearm to

avoid being hit by ejected spent rounds.

LOADING AND FIRING

Before loading the firearm, visually inspect your safety and make sure it

is in the “Safe” position. Never load the firearm with the safety in the

firing position. Avoid contact with the trigger mechanism while loading

ammunition and at all times prior to firing.

To insert rounds in the chamber, move the top lever to the right with

the thumb of your firing hand and open the breech. Inspect the cham-

bers and barrel bores to be sure they are free of any obstruction. Insert

proper ammunition in each chamber and close the action. Be sure the

round primer and rim is facing rearward when inserting shells in the

chamber.