Robert. Many thanks for posting the photos of the Merkel for comparison. Take a look at the photo below. There are some significant differences between the breeches which I believe confirms that this is a hand made action by Flues. First, the bottom locking lugs are completely different. I've been doing fine shotguns for 40 years and have never seen a lump design similar to my Flues. Second, the rods that hold the ejectors in place are a smaller diameter than the Merkel and it looks like in a slightly different location. Third, the top locking lugs are a different shape and lock with a square crossbolt, not a round one like the Merkel. Finally, the entire action just has that wonderful "hand built" look. There are slight differences detectable and a file mark here and there. You can almost feel Flues's presence!
