Test: Merkel K5 Black/Extreme single shot rifle

Break-barrel rifles from Merkel go by the name K5. The slim firearms with tilting breech block are offered in different variants. For the test, the German gunmaker sent the Black/Extreme version with a ladies’ stock in .308 Winchester caliber. The Merkel break-barrel rifle has a crisp single-stage trigger, and the trigger pull weight was set to 21 oz/600 grams at the factory. Operating it is a pure joy, the trigger breaks clearly, but not uncontrollably. The gold-plated trigger blade position is adjustable. The forearm blends in with the graceful overall appearance. The overall slim, almost fragile looking gun simply does not tolerate a wide stock. The use of darker rosewood makes the stock end visually attractive. The stud for the sling swivel is located at the very front underneath the barrel, which also allows for the addition of a bipod. Of course, current trends such as the desire for a take-down action do not cause the K5 any problems. In just three easy steps, the break-barrel rifle can be disassembl