I had a Merkel K1 in 300 Win. Mag.
Notice, I said had.
I am not particularly recoil sensitive, and I shoot for load development, and to check zero off a weighted Lead Sled II, in order not to develop a flinch while shooting. However it was a bit much.
I have only gotten "scope eye" once, and that was my fault, due to lack of concentration and poor positioning at the bench. I was with the 9.3 x 74R, whose recoil is more of a shove than a sharp pop IMHO.
I've taken a number of critters with the Blaser K95 in 30-06, the Merkels in 7-08, 308 Win, 223 Rem as well as the 9.3 x 74R, and in each case, I do not remember the recoil as much as I do the elation that comes with a quick clean kill.
As to needing one, a couple thoughts.
The only one of the Blasers and Merkels that I bought new was the K3 Extrem. All the rest were pre-enjoyed, and were basically safe queens. There are deals out there, be patient. I try not to pay over 60% of MSRP, unless I'm really, really infatuated.
ya!
GWB
Last edited by geedubya; 12/30/19.
