Very few first type Merrill actions were sold for sporting purposes. The sporting actions were slightly different with octagonal contours at the front, but the flat latch with the knurled edges were the same. The operating lever on top of the action is marked "J.H. MERRILL/BALTO/PAT. JULY 1858". The lever latches on a small rounded block about an inch forward on the barrel. The barrel is marked "SCHNEIDER/DAYTON, O." on the top flat at the rear. This is probably Michael Schneider, who worked in Dayton from 1853 to 1888, most of the later period with one or more of his sons. The checkered walnut stock has an iron trigger guard, cap box, buttplate, toe plate, and ramrod pipes. The engraved side plate, barrel wedge escutcheons, and forearm tip are German silver. It also has a beavertail cheekpiece. The operating lever, lock, and hammer are scroll engraved. The rear sight is a standard Sharps Lawrence patent notch and folding ladder type. The front sight has a German silver blade, and there are lines for windage adjustment on the barrel. The muzzle is turned down for a starter. Povenance: Hallock DuPont, Jack Malloy, and Frank Sellers.

Fine overall with brown and gray patina mixed with faded original brown finish and case colors along with scattered mild surface oxidation. The stock has crisp checkering, light dents and scratches, and a crack in the left side of the wrist. The lock is mechanically excellent, but the triggers need work.