RE: Merkel Drillings
I have been told that the 9.3X74R is slightly a different diameter then other 9.3 rounds (kind of like a 303brit compared to a 308) and that getting projectiles and brass down will be difficult.
But for my desired use as a shotgun for shooting ball rounds and shot for 90% of the time and as a big game gun for the rest of the time there are better options for me at the moment. Later on when I have bought my own place I will be able to expand my collection more, I think a 12ga over 7X57 drilling might just find its way into my grubby little hands then.
But my present 375H&H is a top outfit for both close range and long range shooting and a 12ga ball gun is something that I have wanted for years, I have found a couple that really take my fancy and would be exactly what I have been after as opposed to something that may or may not work out for my purposes.
For now I also have access to a fellow who will sell me guns and equipment at below wholesale prices in exchange for pig hunting trips (supposedly) so I might be able to get a switch barrel set-up in 12ga SXS with a matched set of barrels in a .458 round so I will see how that turns out for now, the mate who told me about him only knows him through his brother and I have learnt from past experiences that these things can slide both ways.