The Helix Merkel, a linear repeater with a geared breech, has set standards in terms of ergonomics and intuitive handling.

Design: Standard barrel, with M15x1 muzzle thread and removable sights. Carbon stock.

Translated straight line
The linear movement of the bolt handle is transferred to the bolt head at a 1:2 ratio. It moves smoothly and quietly into and out of the locking position within a special helical track system. The cycling action is thus geared: the fastest cycling is guaranteed. This benefits faster target acquisition and therefore more precise follow-up shots.

Take Down
The Helix was designed not only for hunting, but also for getting there. The Merkel defines a new level of takedown capability. The key to disassembling a hunting rifle without tools is takedown. With its bolt-barrel system, the Merkel has perfected the classic takedown and implemented it for the first time in this class. This rifle can be disassembled to almost briefcase-sized dimensions in just three steps. Even those with little experience can do it in seconds – reducing the Helix to transport dimensions.

Safety of the shooter
Safety is the peace of mind that comes with being able to hunt without worry – because the rifle itself offers the best possible safety features. The helix bolt is a further development of the classic rotating bolt – no other principle locks a bolt-action rifle more securely. In the Merkel RX Helix, the rotating bolt is combined with the helix principle to create a linear bolt-action rifle. The bolt is enclosed at the rear for added safety and protection against dirt.

Unintentional discharge
The manual cocking mechanism of the RX Helix is located on the piston neck. It cocks the system with a simple press of the thumb just before firing – and it can be released just as easily.

Reliable operation
Manual cocking systems sometimes suffer from a lack of ignition energy. For the Helix, a patented hammer system with a joint-driven firing pin was developed, delivering maximum ignition energy for a reliable shot.

Linear repetition
Cycling the bolt while shouldered is the ultimate skill for rapid follow-up shots. The Helix masters this skill with excellence, combining a rotating bolt with true linear cycling while shouldered – without the slightest disruptive twisting or tilting motion found in other straight-pull rifles. The eye remains on the target, and the bolt handle is positioned precisely above the trigger. The straight stock, in the tradition of the Merkel African rifles, provides the necessary stability for this movement.

Staying in the finish line
During cycling, the bolt does not move beyond the piston neck towards the shooter's eye, which interferes with aiming in conventional systems. With the Helix system, the movement occurs entirely within the receiver. The eye remains undisturbed on the target. Now for the second shot: triggered by a finely adjustable direct trigger with a crisp break – that's true ergonomics.

Bolt Barrel System
The revolution in the barrel. The Bolt Barrel System is the driving force behind the perfected Merkel takedown rifle: barrel, bolt head, and action are connected by a coupling mechanism that can be released with a single lever – no tools required. Cleaning the barrel and bolt is also incredibly easy thanks to the Bolt Barrel System: remove the barrel, unscrew the bolt head – all parts are easily accessible and simple to clean.