Which 20g would you pick? A Webley & Scott or A.H. Fox …

Which 20g would you pick? A Webley & Scott or a. A.H. Fox ...
Which 20g would you pick? A Webley & Scott or a. A.H. Fox …

Two classic side-by-sides. Similar in some ways, different in others.

Which would you pick?

 Webley & Scott - Model 720 - 26" IC / IM - All Original
Webley & Scott – Model 720 – 26″ IC / IM – All Original

This 20g Webley & Scott Model 720 is a basic British boxlock built by one of the UK’s most famous makers. It was made to be rugged, reliable, and relatively affordable.

To that end, it was built on one of the most reliable actions ever conceived — the Anson & Deeley boxlock action. Harrington & Richardson imported them into the US in the ’70s, and back then they cost $1400 and came with a case and cleaning accessories.

Compared to the Fox, it has longer, 3″ chambers, shorter barrels, and a straight-grip stock that’s higher and longer. It’s a more modern gun and it’s cheaper, too ($3650 vs. $5900).

A H FOX, PHIL. A GRADE 20 GAUGE AUTO-EJECTORS, 100% ORIGINAL
A H FOX, PHIL. A GRADE 20 GAUGE AUTO-EJECTORS, 100% ORIGINAL

This 20g A.H. Fox A Grade is a great looking vintage SxS built by a legendary maker. It drips with the mystique that so many of us love about old American shotguns. It has great looking wood and it’s built on the reliable Fox boxlock action. It has ejectors, too.

Compared to the Webley, it has 2 1/2″ chambers, and a shorter, pistol-grip stock with a bit more drop, and longer barrels. It’s also a bit lighter. It’s also around 50 years older.

Webley & Scott - Model 720 - 26" IC / IM - All Original - Nice Shape
Webley & Scott – Model 720 – 26″ IC / IM – All Original – Nice Shape

Webley & Scott – Model 720 – 26″ IC / IM – All Original – Nice Shape: 3″, IC / IM (.005 / .020), Ejectors, Double Triggers, English Stock, Checkered Butt, Splinter Forearm, LOP 14-3/4″, Drop 1-1/2″ to 2-3/8″, Neutral Cast, Weight 5 lbs. 14 oz. Nice Original Gun that has been used in the field. Barrels 98+%, Wood 95+%, Frame shows some loss of finish – probably 85%. Price: $3650

A. H. FOX, PHIL. A GRADE 20 GAUGE AUTO-EJECTORS
A. H. FOX, PHIL. A GRADE 20 GAUGE AUTO-EJECTORS

A. H. FOX, PHIL. A GRADE 20 GAUGE AUTO-EJECTORS: 28″ CHROMOX FLUID COMPRESSED STEEL BARRELS, MODIFIED AND FULL, EXCELLENT BLUE, MIRROR BRIGHT BORES, TWIN IVORY SIGHTS, NUMBER FOUR WEIGHT, AUTOMATIC EJECTORS.  TOP LEVER TO THE FAR RIGHT, TIGHT ON FACE, 2 1/2″ CHAMBERS.  GOOD CASE COLOR IN THE PROTECTED AREAS, STRONG TRIGGERGUARD BLUE, PERFECT ENGRAVED SCREWS, ATTRACTIVE ENGRAVING WITH BOLD SCROLLWORK WITH STIPPLED BACKGROUND.  PISTOL GRIP STOCK, SPLINTER FOREARM, GORGEOUS HIGHLY FIGURED WOOD, ORIGINAL GRIP CAP AND BUTTPLATE.  GREAT DIMENSIONS – 1 1/2″ X 2 1/2″ X 14″, 5 POUNDS 10 OUNCES.  MADE IN 1925.  100% ORIGINAL CONDITION. Price: $5900

Rare gun alert: 16g A.H. Fox SPE Skeet and Upland Game Gun …

16 Gauge Fox Special SPE SXS
16 Gauge Fox Special SPE SXS

Here’s one of the rarest American SxSs you’ll see. It’s a 16g A.H. Fox SPE, Skeet and Upland Game.  Introduced in 1932, the SPs (SPecials) were designed to be streamlined versions of regular Fox shotguns. They came in two models: standards ones that were unengraved and had pistol grips and Skeet & Upland Game Guns like you see here, which had a straight grip, a beavertail forend, and a bit of scroll engraving on the action. Both models came with ejectors or without ejectors (SPE or SP).

From an A.H. Fox catalog, 1935
From an A.H. Fox catalog, 1935

From 1935 catalog: SP Grade Skeet and Upland Game Gun 12, 16, 20 gauge

“The Fox SP Grade Skeet and Upland Game Gun is an arm with black gun-metal finish frame, handsomely engraved; imported walnut stock and forend with fine mesh checkering. The length and boring of barrels are correct for use on quail, partridge, woodcock, and other upland game birds at ranges up to 35 yards. These specifications are also correct for skeet shooting.”

16 Gauge Fox Special SPE SXS
16 Gauge Fox Special SPE SXS

16 Gauge Fox Special SPE SXS: Extremely rare Fox 16 gauge SPE. I am told only about 48 SPE Foxes were made in 16 gauge. This gun SN 303359 has 26″ barrels with very good original blue and excellent bores. There is one minor ding on the left barrel near the muzzle. Straight grip stock with a 14 1/8″ LOP to the end of a worn leather covered pad. This Fox weighs 6.48 lbs on my digital scale with a DAC of 1 5/8″ and a DAH of 2 3/4″. The single trigger and BTF ejectors all function properly. This is a very nice gun. Price: $6500 

Extremely rare Fox 16 gauge SPE.
Extremely rare Fox 16 gauge SPE.
Copy of the order tag for an extremely rare Fox 16 gauge SPE.
Copy of the order tag for an extremely rare Fox 16 gauge SPE.

20g Parker VHE vs 20g Fox AE: Which would you pick?

AE Fox VS VHE Parker: Which 20g would would you pick?
AE Fox VS VHE Parker: Which 20g would would you pick?

Here are two classic American doubles–an A.H. Fox and a Parker–both in twenty gauge and both perfect for the uplands. Which would you pick?

A. H. FOX, PHILADELPHIA, A-GRADE 20 GAUGE AUTO-EJECTORS, SxS SHOTGUN
A. H. FOX, PHILADELPHIA, A-GRADE 20 GAUGE AUTO-EJECTORS, SxS SHOTGUN

This Fox has a lot going for it: Original condition, lightweight, decent stock dimensions. Drawbacks? It’s pricey.

A. H. FOX, PHILADELPHIA, A-GRADE 20 GAUGE AUTO-EJECTORS, SxS SHOTGUN
A. H. FOX, PHILADELPHIA, A-GRADE 20 GAUGE AUTO-EJECTORS, SxS SHOTGUN

A. H. FOX, PHILADELPHIA, A-GRADE 20 GAUGE AUTO-EJECTORS, SxS SHOTGUN: 28″ CHROMOX FLUID COMPRESSED STEEL BARRELS, MODIFIED AND FULL, EXCELLENT BLUE, MIRROR BRIGHT BORES, TWIN IVORY SIGHTS, NUMBER FOUR WEIGHT, AUTOMATIC EJECTORS.  TOP LEVER TO THE FAR RIGHT, TIGHT ON FACE, 2 1/2″ CHAMBERS.  GOOD CASE COLOR IN THE PROTECTED AREAS, STRONG TRIGGERGUARD BLUE, PERFECT ENGRAVED SCREWS, ATTRACTIVE ENGRAVING WITH BOLD SCROLLWORK WITH STIPPLED BACKGROUND.  PISTOL GRIP STOCK, SPLINTER FOREARM, GORGEOUS HIGHLY FIGURED WOOD, ORIGINAL GRIP CAP AND BUTTPLATE.  GREAT DIMENSIONS – 1 1/2″ X 2 1/2″ X 14″, 5 POUNDS 10 OUNCES. MADE IN 1925.  100% ORIGINAL CONDITION. Price: $5900

PARKER BROS. VHE 20 GAUGE 0 FRAME SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUN:
PARKER BROS. VHE 20 GAUGE 0 FRAME SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUN:

This Parker doesn’t have the original condition of the Fox and it’s a heavier gun. But it has better stock dimensions because it was restocked. It’s less expensive, too.

PARKER BROS. VHE 20 GAUGE 0 FRAME SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUN:
PARKER BROS. VHE 20 GAUGE 0 FRAME SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUN:

PARKER BROS. VHE 20 GAUGE 0 FRAME SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUN 28″ BARRELS, VERY GOOD BLUE, MIRROR BRIGHT BORES, BARRELS RING BEAUTIFULLY, AUTOMATIC EJECTORS.  TRACES OF CASE COLOR, 0 FRAME.  PISTOL GRIP STOCK, SPLINTER FOREARM, HIGHLY FIGURED WOOD, FINE CHECKERING, STEEL GRIP CAP.  THE GUN WAS RESTOCKED IN ENGLAND, OUTSTANDING WORK.  GREAT DIMENSIONS – 1 1/2″ X 2″ X 15″, HAWKINS PAD, 6 POUNDS 10 OUNCES.  GREAT LITTLE PARKER TO HUNT WITH, MADE IN 1919. Price: $3500.00

Good gun alert: Near mint 12 A.H. Fox A grade…

Near Mint A.H. Fox A-Grade 12ga Side-by-Side Double Barrel Shotgun
Near Mint A.H. Fox A-Grade 12ga Side-by-Side Double Barrel Shotgun

Here’s one of the rarest Fox SxSs you’ve ever see.

But what makes it rare is not its grade or gauge. It’s just an A-grade in 12 gauge–a very common shotgun. What makes this double rare is it’s a 12-gauge A-grade in fantastic original condition.

The A.H. Fox company started making A-grade shotguns in 1906. While these guns weren’t cheap, they weren’t high-grade doubles, either. Most were bought by hunters and used hard. That’s why it’s so rare to find one that pretty much brand new.

Near Mint A.H. Fox A-Grade 12ga Side-by-Side Double Barrel Shotgun
Near Mint A.H. Fox A-Grade 12ga Side-by-Side Double Barrel Shotgun

Near Mint A.H. Fox A-Grade 12ga Side-by-Side Double Barrel Shotgun2-5/8″ Chambers. 30″ Bbls with matted rib are marked “CHROMOX FLUID COMPRESSED STEEL” “MADE BY A. H. FOX GUN CO PHILA PA U.S.A.” on tops. Bbls are #1 weight. Double triggers, auto safety, and extractors. Action is engraved in late “A” style. Blued trigger guard has a diamond on bow and SN on tang. Quilted figure American walnut round knob pistol grip buttstock measures 14″ over open sided Jostam pad. Matching forend has Fox’s Deeley type release and SN on the interior of iron. Bore diameter: left -.729, right – .729. Bore restrictions: left – .036 (full), right – .013 (lt mod). Wall thickness: left – .037, right – .042. Drop at heel: 3″, drop at comb: 1-11/16″. Neutral cast. Weight: 7 lbs. 9 oz. LOP: 14″.

CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, very close to new, with only the barest hint of high edge wear on all metal parts, and a few light marks in wood finishes. Mechanically excellent.

From one of the finest Fox collections ever assembled. Price: $3900

Near Mint A.H. Fox A-Grade 12ga Side-by-Side Double Barrel Shotgun
Near Mint A.H. Fox A-Grade 12ga Side-by-Side Double Barrel Shotgun
Near Mint A.H. Fox A-Grade 12ga Side-by-Side Double Barrel Shotgun
Near Mint A.H. Fox A-Grade 12ga Side-by-Side Double Barrel Shotgun

Is this 16 gauge really an A.H. Fox?

A.H. Fox SP (Special) Grade 16 gauge SxS Shotgun
A.H. Fox SP (Special) Grade 16 gauge SxS Shotgun

Take a close at this double. What do you think — Fox or not a Fox? The answer’s  “all Fox, absolutely.”

This shotgun is an A.H. Fox SP grade. Introduced in 1932, SPs (SPecials) were designed streamlined versions of regular Fox shotguns. While they look a lot like a Winchester M21 on the outside, their mechanics are the same as every other Fox shotgun.

Fox SPs came in two models: standards like the one shown here and the Skeet & Upland Game Gun, which had a straight grip, a beavertail forend, and a bit of scroll engraving on the action. Both models came with or without ejectors (SPE or SP).

Fox SP Grade, from a 1938 A.H. Fox shotgun catalog
Fox SP Grade, from a 1938 A.H. Fox shotgun catalog

I’m not sure how many 16 gauge SP Fox made, but it’s safe to say the numbers are low.

A.H. Fox SP (Special) Grade 16 gauge SxS Shotgun: This is a very nice example of the rare SP grade Fox. 26″ barrels and chokes I believe to be imp/mod. Double triggers with automatic safety. LOP: 14″ DAC: 1 1/2″ DAH: 2 5/8″. Very shootable dimensions. The gun weighs 6 lbs 2 oz. The barrels are uncut and there is a mid bead also. The barrels are on the face and the gun locks up tight. The wood to metal fit is still rigid and there are no cracks. The checkering is in fine shape. The screws have not been buggered. The widows-peak buttplate is excellent with no cracks or chips. The wood does have some stains and small dents. The wood finish is mostly intact. This shotgun appears to have been carried more than shot. The bores are bright and shiny. There is some carry wear in the receiver bluing on the upper and lower tangs, safety, top lever. The serial number is 303436. All the serial numbers match. The barrels appear to have an old reblue which I compared to another all original high condition Fox of the 1930s. They match perfectly in color and tone. (if Julia’s Fall 2017 auction results are a market indication, this shouldn’t be much of a detractor. Several of their American doubles had been partially or completely refinished and still brought prices in line with original finish guns.) This small frame 16 gauge is a delight to carry and swing. It would make a great upland bird gun suitable for Bobwhites up to Ringnecks. These SP Foxes (Utica Savage) do not come up for sale often. The time to buy one is when you see it. Price: $3,850

A.H. Fox SP (Special) Grade 16 gauge SxS Shotgun
A.H. Fox SP (Special) Grade 16 gauge SxS Shotgun

A.H. Fox SP (Special) Grade 16 gauge SxS Shotgun

A.H. Fox SP (Special) Grade 16 gauge SxS Shotgun
A.H. Fox SP (Special) Grade 16 gauge SxS Shotgun
A.H. Fox SP (Special) Grade 16 gauge SxS Shotgun
A.H. Fox SP (Special) Grade 16 gauge SxS Shotgun

Good gun alert: 20g Fox Sterlingworth ejector, upgraded stock…

Fox Sterlingworth SxS 20 Gauge Ejectors
Fox Sterlingworth SxS 20 Gauge Ejectors

This 20g Fox is an odd duck. While it’s a great looking SxS with nice wood on it, the stock’s wrong for a Sterlingworth.

Most Fox Sterlingworths had pistol grip stocks. Some came with straight stocks. None were offered with round-knob stocks like you see on this 20. Fox offered round-knob stocks, but reserved them for their other models–A-grades and up.

But…the stock on this Sterlingworth looks right for a Fox. So how did it get there? It may have been special ordered, the gun may maybe have gone back to the factoy for it, or this Sterlingworth may have been restocked by someone who really knew what they were doing.

Fox Sterlingworth SxS 20 Gauge Ejectors
Fox Sterlingworth SxS 20 Gauge Ejectors

Regardless, this little 20g side-by-side is a nice gun. With ejectors it’s rare, too. Overall, I think it’s a good deal.

Fox Sterlingworth SxS 20 Gauge Ejectors Nice Wood!!28″ barrels 14″ LOP 1 .75 drop at comb. 2.5 drop at heel. 2 weight barrels. Choked M/Cyl. Bores are bright and shiny. Bluing on barrels is in great shape with no dents. Muzzle has some minor handling marks. Case coloring is 40-50%. Screws are in good shape and the slots are not rolled over. Bluing on trigger gaurd show some wear around serial numbers. Top lever is right of center. Showing that it locks tight and has been gently used. Automatic saftey link is still there and working. Stock finish is in nice shape. I do not see any splits or cracks in wood. Butt plate in great shape. Checkering in great shape. Price: $2,650.

Fox Sterlingworth SxS 20 Gauge Ejectors
Fox Sterlingworth SxS 20 Gauge Ejectors
Fox Sterlingworth SxS 20 Gauge Ejectors
Fox Sterlingworth SxS 20 Gauge Ejectors
Fox Sterlingworth SxS 20 Gauge Ejectors
Fox Sterlingworth SxS 20 Gauge Ejectors

Still need a turkey? Big doubles for big birds…

ITHACA N.I.D. 10 GAUGE 3 1/2" MAGNUM SIDE-BY-SIDE - NICE
ITHACA N.I.D. 10 GAUGE 3 1/2″ MAGNUM SIDE-BY-SIDE – NICE

Happy almost Thanksgiving. If you still need a bird to help you celebrate this very American holiday, here are three classic American doubles that can help you do it.

These guns are big and they were built to push a lot of lead. Any one would be great knocking down a monster turkey hunting for the table.

ITHACA N.I.D. 10 GAUGE 3 1/2″ MAGNUM SIDE-BY-SIDE – NICE: 32″ BARRELS, FULL & FULL, VERY GOOD BLUE, MIRROR BORES.  GOOD, VIVID CASE COLOR.  LATE GUN, NO COCKING INDICATORS.  PISTOL GRIP STOCK, SPLINTER FOREARM, HIGHLY FIGURED WOOD.  EXCELLENT CHECKERING, JOSTAM PAD.   ONLY 574 OF THESE BIG FIELD GRADE MAGNUMS WERE MADE IN THE 1930’S.  GREAT TURKEY OR GOOSE GUN.  SCARCE GUN. DIMENSIONS 1 1/2 X 2 1/2 X 14 1/4  WEIGHT: 10 1/2 POUNDS. Price: $3500

ARKER BROS. - 12 GA. DHE 32" BLS. FULL/FULL - BEAVERTAIL FOREND - STRAIGHT STOCK
ARKER BROS. – 12 GA. DHE 32″ BLS. FULL/FULL – BEAVERTAIL FOREND – STRAIGHT STOCK

PARKER BROS. – 12 GA. DHE 32″ BLS. FULL/FULL – BEAVERTAIL FOREND – STRAIGHT STOCK: 14 1/16″ X 1 3/4″ X 2 3/16″ – 8 LBS. 3 OZS.MANUAL SAFTEY – RECEIVER HAS LIGHT PATINA  VOID OF CC – TOP LEVER RIGHT OF CENTER – DOUBLE IVORY BEADS – DOUBLE TRIGGERS – REINFORCED BARREL FOREARM LOOP. WILL MAKE A FINE PIGEON GUN. Price: $4100

 

Fox HE Super Fox 12 Gauge – 32”, 1 OF 950 MADE HIGH FACTORY CONDITION: Year 1927,

Fox HE Super Fox 12 Gauge – 32”, 1 OF 950 MADE HIGH FACTORY CONDITION: Year 1927, 12Gauge, 9lbs 2oz, Side-by-Side, Serial Number: 31791.
Fox HE Super Fox 12 Gauge – 32”, 1 OF 950 MADE HIGH FACTORY CONDITION: Year 1927, 12Gauge, 9lbs 2oz, Side-by-Side, Serial Number: 31791.

12Gauge, 9lbs 2oz, Side-by-Side, Serial Number: 31791. Those interested in long range shooting likely know of the Fox HE Grade or “SUPER FOX”, the most capable long-range gun made in America, or maybe in the world!  There is a strong interest in these guns, made so by famous outdoor writer Nash Buckingham in the late 1920’s and in all of the stories written since.  There were only about 950 of these guns manufactured, and most have been altered in ways that destroy their function and value, so an unmolested Super Fox is a rare find.  The Super Fox performance is entirely dependent on the combination of the over-bored barrels, precise chambers, and special, long tapered chokes, all finely tuned by the famous barrel guru Bert Becker.  This Super Fox, sn31791 shipped in 1927, has 32” barrels with factory 3” chambers, showing the correct .738 bore diameter and 4 ½” chokes tapering to a 49 (R) and 48 (L) thousandths constriction.  Like most waterfowling guns, this Super Fox was used, but also well maintained, as it retains over 92% bold factory case color, 92% factory blue, 97% factory trigger guard blue, near perfect screws, excellent bores, no dents or dings, barrels tight on the hinge pin and breech face like a new gun, ejectors are super strong and well timed, mechanics are excellent, no cracks or repairs to the factory length wood that still retains the original finish and superb checkering, and there are the customary handling marks on the barrels and wood.  Most HE Super Fox guns have plain jane American walnut chosen for its strength.  This gun has nicely figured English walnut with nice, strong straight grain through the wrist, making it a much more handsome Super Fox than you usually see.  THIS IS AN AMAZING FIND AS THESE GUNS ARE ALMOST ALWAYS ALTERED, USED HARD, AND LACK THE SUPERB ORIGINAL CONDITION YOU SEE IN THIS GUN. The Super Fox is in such hot demand and the prices have risen so sharply as a result, this gun will go fast as it is one of the finest conditioned factory original Super Fox guns seen for sale in a very long time.  Don’t hesitate or it will be gone!  Thanks for looking at our fine guns. Price: $9,750.00

Other great Foxes at Julia’s next week…

 

VERY RARE (54 PRODUCED) HIGH ORIGINAL CONDITION SPECIAL ORDER FOX 20 GAUGE “DE” SHOTGUN WITH SINGLE TRIGGER.
VERY RARE (54 PRODUCED) HIGH ORIGINAL CONDITION SPECIAL ORDER FOX 20 GAUGE “DE” SHOTGUN WITH SINGLE TRIGGER.

As I mentioned on MondayJames D. Julia Auctioneers has an insane collection of A.H. Fox double-barrel shotguns coming up in their Fall 2017 sale, which starts this Monday, 10/30.

While this sale features a number of super rare, super big money Foxes like this incredible 20 bore FE (estimate $150,000-$225,000) and this fantastic special order 20 bore DE with a single trigger (estimate $27,500-$42,500), it also features some lower-grade models with lower reserves and still a ton of original condition.

RARE, AS FOUND, HIGH ORIGINAL CONDITION SMALL BORE PHILADELPHIA FOX “XE” SHOTGUN WITH FACTORY LETTER. ESTIMATE $9,000-$14,000

RARE, AS FOUND, HIGH ORIGINAL CONDITION SMALL BORE PHILADELPHIA FOX “XE” SHOTGUN WITH FACTORY LETTER.
RARE, AS FOUND, HIGH ORIGINAL CONDITION SMALL BORE PHILADELPHIA FOX “XE” SHOTGUN WITH FACTORY LETTER.

INCREDIBLE VERY NEAR TO NEW 16 GAUGE “CE” PHILADELPHIA FOX SHOTGUN. ESTIMATE $12,500-$17,500

INCREDIBLE VERY NEAR TO NEW 16 GAUGE “CE” PHILADELPHIA FOX SHOTGUN. ESTIMATE $12,500-$17,500
INCREDIBLE VERY NEAR TO NEW 16 GAUGE “CE” PHILADELPHIA FOX SHOTGUN. ESTIMATE $12,500-$17,500

NEAR NEW ORIGINAL CONDITION FOX “A” GRADE SHOTGUN. ESTIMATE $3,500-$5,500

NEAR NEW ORIGINAL CONDITION FOX “A” GRADE SHOTGUN. ESTIMATE $3,500-$5,500
NEAR NEW ORIGINAL CONDITION FOX “A” GRADE SHOTGUN. ESTIMATE $3,500-$5,500

This week’s good guns: Powered by Gunsinternational.com…

Ithaca 1911 Grade 4E Flues SXS 20ga with Ejectors 28" Krupp Fluid Steel Barrels Beautiful
Ithaca 1911 Grade 4E Flues SXS 20ga with Ejectors 28″ Krupp Fluid Steel Barrels Beautiful

Ithaca 1911 Grade 4E Flues SXS 20ga with Ejectors 28″ Krupp Fluid Steel Barrels BeautifulWow, what a nice piece to add to anyone’s Collection, very early, 1911 Ithaca Flues Grade 4 Side by Side 20ga Shotgun with 28″ Barrels. Price: $5,999
Curio/Relic: Yes
Manufacturer: Ithaca
Model: Flues 4E
Serial Number: 214159
Ejectors: yes
Condition: Excellent!
Metal Condition: Excellent
Wood Condition: Excellent
Bore Condition: Mirror
Barrels: 28
Gauge: 20
Manufacture Date: 1911
Engraving: Grade 4 Yes!

Ansley H. Fox Side By Side 20 Gauge "A E" Grade
Ansley H. Fox Side By Side 20 Gauge “A E” Grade

Ansley H. Fox Side By Side 20 Gauge “A E” Grade: This shotgun’s serial number is 202993. It is a 20 gauge shotgun fitted with auto ejectors and double triggers The barrels are 28 inches long. These barrels have the solid rib. They are choked Full and Full. The “pull’ is 14 and 3/8 inches from the front trigger. The recoil pad is a “Old English” style pad. The barrels have no dents or blemishes. The barrels are made with chromox fluid compressed steel. The barrels also say Made By A.H. Fox Gun Co. Phila. Pa. U.S.A. The engraving is sharp and clean. The checkering is in very fine condition with sharp diamonds. This shotgun locks up tight. The automatic safety works smoothly. The wood finish is in fully intact condition and pleasing to the eye. The rust blued barrels would rate a 98% condition. The color cased finish is faded on the receiver. This is a very nice condition A. H. Fox Shotgun that will fit well for the collector as well as the shooter. Price: $5500

BROWNING SUPERPOSED 12 GA SUPERLITE OU SHOTGUN
BROWNING SUPERPOSED 12 GA SUPERLITE OU SHOTGUN

BROWNING SUPERPOSED 12 GA SUPERLITE OU SHOTGUNMADE IN BELGIUM IN 1967.  FIRST YEAR OF THE SUPERLITES.  BARRELS ARE 26 INCHES WITH A SOLID RIB AND CHOKED I.C. AND MOD.  98% CONDITION. Price: $3,000
Condition: EXCELLENT
Metal Condition: EXCELLENT
Wood Condition: EXCELLENT
Bore Condition: EXCELLENT
Action: O/U
Triggers: SINGLE
LOP: 14 1/4
Rib: SOLID
Weight: 6.7 PDS

PARKER BROS, SXS, VH, 12 GA
PARKER BROS, SXS, VH, 12 GA

PARKER BROS, SXS, VH, 12 GA: 1 1/2 Frame, 28”, IM& F, DT, Capped Pistol Grip, Splinter Forearm, Matted Concave Rib, Scroll Border Engraving, Casehardened Receiver , Pad, sn 219xxx, A nice all original gun with lots of casecolors and nice modern dimensions, Dimensions 1 1/2 x 2 3/8 x 14 1/4 with 0 cast, Weight 7#3oz, ID 3439, EXC. Condition. Price: $2495

FAIR Model 500, 28 Ga., Over-Under, Game GunExcellent condition overall.   Fabrique Armi Isadoro Rizzini,  Manufactured in Italy. Price: $1,399.99
Manufacturer: Circa: 2000

FAIR Model 500, 28 Ga., Over-Under, Game Gun
FAIR Model 500, 28 Ga., Over-Under, Game Gun

Caliber: 28 Gauge
Chambers: 2 3/4
Metal Condition: Excellent
Wood Condition: Excellent
Bore Condition: Excellent
Barrels: 28″ Blued Steel with Ventilated Rib
Triggers: Single Selective Trigger with Ejectors
Stock: Checkered Walnut Straight Grip Butt Stock
Stock Dimensions:
LOP: 14 1/8
Fore End: Checkered Walnut with Schnabel Tip
Butt Pad: Pachmayr Old English Butt Pad
Weight: 5 lbs. 14 ozs.
Sights: Single Bead
Chokes: Choke Tubes: Cylinder & Improved Cylinder

Auction alert: CE grade A.H. Fox, 12g & 16g…

Fox CE Grade, from 1937-39 Savage-era catalog
Fox CE Grade, from 1937-39 Savage-era catalog

If you’re a Fox fan, these two SxSs are going to make you drool. One’s a 16g and the other’s a 12g. Both look like CEs, and they’re coming to auction this Friday, May 20, @ Cottone Auctions.

Fox considered the CE to be a high-grade gun. In 1931, retailers asked $100 for it — more than twice the price of Sterlingworth with ejectors and a little less than a Parker GHE. The same year, a sidelock W. & C. Scott Premier cost $1,000.

Today, CE grade Foxes like the ones you see here are very collectible — especially the 16g. Fox made very few of them, and to see two with this kind of original condition is a treat.

16 gauge Ansley H. Fox, Philadelphia Double Barrel Shotgun, Vintage, original blueing & finish, 26″ barrels, 2 3/4″ chamber. Serial #302043

16 gauge Ansley H. Fox, Philadelphia CE grade Double Barrel Shotgun, Vintage, original blueing & finish, 26" barrels, 2 3/4" chamber. Serial #302043
16 gauge Ansley H. Fox, Philadelphia CE grade Double Barrel Shotgun, Vintage, original blueing & finish, 26″ barrels, 2 3/4″ chamber. Serial #302043

12 gauge Ansley H. Fox, Philadelphia Double Barrel Shotgun, Vintage, 30″ barrels, 2 3/4″ chamber. Serial #12031. Checkered grip. Highly figured stock. Original bluing & finish.

12 gauge Ansley H. Fox, Philadelphia CE grade Double Barrel Shotgun, Vintage, 30" barrels, 2 3/4" chamber. Serial #12031. Checkered grip. Highly figured stock. Original bluing & finish.
12 gauge Ansley H. Fox, Philadelphia CE grade Double Barrel Shotgun, Vintage, 30″ barrels, 2 3/4″ chamber. Serial #12031. Checkered grip. Highly figured stock. Original bluing & finish.

This week’s good guns: Powered by Gunsinternational.com…

Beretta AS20EL Over Under Premium 20ga 28inch bbls- very nice-vary rare in 28inch
Beretta AS20EL Over Under Premium 20ga 28inch bbls- very nice-vary rare in 28inch

Beretta AS20EL Over Under Premium Over Under 20ga 28inch bbls: 2 3/4″ chambers, 28″ barrels with a vent rib and choked Mod. and Full, (see pictures for barrel weight 1,130kg and constriction) 14 1/4″ LOP over old Pachmyr Pad, ejectors, double triggers, English Stock grip, Game Forend (trim) and checkering is all there, coin finished receiver withfine hand engraving of acanthus scroll work, bottom of action also engraved “Brevettato” and “Italy”, excellent condition with some handling marks. These ASE -AS20EL- guns were made between 1947 and 1964.  This is a 20 bore and is very scarce and were very limited. 20 bores are known to have extraordinaryily trim frames and stocks and are usually as light as a 28 bore.  The 20s are even more scarce.
Appears to be all original (except pad) and overall Excellent Condition. Clearly hasn’t been used hard. Price: $9,250

A H Fox, Phil., XE Grade #4 weight barrels Gorgeous Engraving
A H Fox, Phil., XE Grade #4 weight barrels Gorgeous Engraving

A H Fox, Phil., XE Grade #4 weight barrels Gorgeous Engraving: 12 GAUGE, 30″ BARRELS, FULL AND MODIFIED, KRUPP STEEL, 2 3/4″ CHAMBERS, EXCELLENT BLUE, MIRROR BORES, TWIN IVORY SIGHTS, AUTOMATIC EJECTORS, NO. 4 WEIGHT BARRELS.  GORGEOUS VERY DEEP CUT ENGRAVING, 100% COVERAGE, CASE COLOR IN THE PROTECTED AREAS.  PISTOL GRIP STOCK, LONG SPLINTER FOREARM VERY FINE CHECKERING, HIGHLY FIGURED CIRCASSIAN WALNUT, LEATHER COVERED PAD.  NICE HIGH GRADE FOX MADE IN 1916.  GREAT DIMENSIONS – 1 1/2″ X 2 1/2″ X 14″, 7 1/2 POUNDS. Price: $7,500

J.P. Sauer and Sons Model 40E Side-by-Side 12ga/28" Prussian Mfg
J.P. Sauer and Sons Model 40E Side-by-Side 12ga/28″ Prussian Mfg

J.P. Sauer and Sons Model 40E Side-by-Side 12ga/28″ Prussian Mfg: Scalloped boxlock receiver with full coverage game scenes of upland birds, waterfowl, and dogs surrounded by acanthus leaf and scroll, double trigger, ejectors, finely checkered side panels, side clips, Krupp Steel barrels with a matted rib and 2 5/8″ chambers, Mod/Full, pistol grip, splinter forearm with an ebony tip, 14 1/4″ LOP over a Hawkins vented recoil pad. This vintage gun still remains in high condition for its age and maintains approx. 60% of its original case colors. Price: $5,995

BERETTA - RARE - Special Order - S56E - 20ga - 2 Barrel Set - SST - Ejectors - Hand Engraved
BERETTA – RARE – Special Order – S56E – 20ga – 2 Barrel Set – SST – Ejectors – Hand Engraved

BERETTA – RARE – Special Order – S56E – 20ga – 2 Barrel Set – SST – Ejectors – Hand EngravedSingle Selective Trigger, Ejectors, LOP 14-1/4″, Drop 1-9/16″ to 2-5/8″, Weight 5 lbs. 15 oz. Barrel 1: 28″, 3″ Chambers, Choked – Improved Modified / Full. Barrel 2: 26-1/2″, 2-3/4″ Chambers, Choked – Improved Cylinder / Modified. Rare Gun: Special Order – Factory 2 Barrel Set with Factory Pad. Earlier version of the gun that Garcia called the BL-4. Price: $2350

Beretta S 686 OU Ultra Light 12 GA 28 in, 6lbs
Beretta S 686 OU Ultra Light 12 GA 28 in, 6lbs

Beretta S 686 OU Ultra Light 12 GA 28 in, 6lbsPrice: $1,199.99
Manufacturer: 1991
Caliber: 12 Gauge
Chambers: 2 3/4 inch.
Metal Condition: Very good with some small scratches.
Wood Condition: Very good with some small scratches, dings, and dents.
Bore Condition: Clean and bright.
Barrels: 28 inch.
Triggers: Single selective.
Stock: Checkered walnut.
Stock Dimensions:
1 1/2 inch DOC ~ 2 1/4 inch DOH ~ 14 1/4 inch LOP
Fore End: Checkered walnut.
Butt Pad: KICK EEZ recoil pad.
Weight: 6 lbs.
Sights: White front bead with metal mid bead.
Chokes: Mobil choke system.
Extras: Comes with 2 choke tubes, Improved Cylinder and Cylinder.

Auction alert: 16 gauge A.H. Fox A-grade SxS shotgun …

Rare Ansley H. Fox "A Grade" 16 ga. SxS shotgun
Rare Ansley H. Fox “A Grade” 16 ga. SxS shotgun

Here’s a nice looking, classic American double. It’s on Gunbroker.com now and the listing ends today, 9/24/2015, @ 9:40:00 PM ET.

BTW: This is what a minty 16g A-Grade looks like.

Rare Ansley H. Fox "A Grade" 16 ga. SxS shotgun
Rare Ansley H. Fox “A Grade” 16 ga. SxS shotgun

Rare Ansley H. Fox “A Grade” 16 ga. SxS shotgunWe have for auction a nice clean Ansley H. Fox of Philadelphia PA. “A Grade” Double Barrel Side X Side Shotgun, chambered for 16 gauge shot shell cartridges. This beautiful vintage shotgun bearing serial number 300236 was manufactured in 1913 the second year of production for 16 gauge Ansley H. Fox of Philadelphia models according to published factory records. The serial numbers in our auction photographs have been digitally removed, however we will gladly provide them to the winning bidder upon request at the completion of the auction. This beautiful vintage example has remained in wonderful factory original condition over the past 102 years, still retaining most of the original factory blued barrel finish, and showing areas of the factory applied case colored frame finish still is visible. Bores and function are excellent.

Rare Ansley H. Fox "A Grade" 16 ga. SxS shotgun
Rare Ansley H. Fox “A Grade” 16 ga. SxS shotgun

This is an early Ansley H. Fox of Philadelphia Pa, and is not to be confused with the later Fox shotgun variations. The shotgun in our auction listing is an “A Grade” Model, with very nice factory engraving. Early graded A. H. Fox model shotguns are very rare, and seldom encountered, especially ones that are still retaining nice clean factory original condition, with no after market modifications, or have been refinished like the one in our auction.

Rare Ansley H. Fox "A Grade" 16 ga. SxS shotgun
Rare Ansley H. Fox “A Grade” 16 ga. SxS shotgun

The 26 inch side X side “Krupp Fluid Steel” barrels were factory designed with a full length sighting rib, extractors, are choked Full on the right, and Modified on the left, and still have nice bright bores & chambers. This early vintage double barrel shotgun still has the factory original early style 16 gauge 2 9/16 inch shot shell chambering, and has “not” been rechambered as many have, to accommodate the more modern 2 ¾ inch shells. The locking leaver still rests firmly to the right as it should, the action is still very tight, and the barrel to action fit is solid with no looseness. Again folks, please keep in mind that this beautiful vintage A. H. Fox is all factory original with no modifications, which in todays market is a very Rare find! This beauty still retains the factory original genuine Walnut wood stock & forearm, which has very nice factory checkering, with no cracks, chips, or alterations.

Rare Ansley H. Fox "A Grade" 16 ga. SxS shotgun
Rare Ansley H. Fox “A Grade” 16 ga. SxS shotgun

This nice old A. H. Fox shotgun has the following stock measurements, the LOP (Length of Pull) is 14 ¼ inches, and is fitted with the original black bake-a-lite butt plate. No folks, you didn’t read it wrong,,, this grand old shotgun has not been cut! The drop at the comb is 2 ¼ inches, is 3 inches at the butt, and has no cast off, and the shotgun weighs a total of just 6 1/4 lbs. This is simply an exceptional 102 year old example of a very nice, very clean, unaltered, factory original A. H. Fox of Philadelphia Pa. shotgun. This beauty would certainly make a great addition to any Ansley H. Fox, or any other fine vintage gun collection.

If this 20g A.H. Fox Sterlingworth SxS is legit, it’s a steal …

A.H. Fox Sterlingworth SxS 20ga 2 3/4", Straight Stock, Skeet & Upland Game?
A.H. Fox Sterlingworth SxS 20ga 2 3/4″, Straight Stock, Skeet & Upland Game?

I’m not sure what we’re seeing here. Is this a rare, 20 gauge A.H. Fox Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland Game gun? Or is it just regular 20g Sterlingworth someone has messed with?

This gun is serial number — 270421 — which puts it around 1938. That’s near the end of the line for A.H. Fox, and three years into the period when the company was building their straight-gripped, high-stocked Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland Game guns. So there’s a chance this is one of those guns. If that’s the case, it’s a great deal.

A.H. Fox Sterlingworth SxS 20ga 2 3/4", Straight Stock, Skeet & Upland Game?
A.H. Fox Sterlingworth SxS 20ga 2 3/4″, Straight Stock, Skeet & Upland Game?

But here’s the thing: The stocks on Sterly S&UGs didn’t have the checkered sidepanels — or at least none of the ones I’ve seen, and the none ones Fox advertised in their literature,  had stocks with checkered sidepanels. That detail was reserved for Foxes in B-grade and up.

So did the person who ordered this gun also ask for the panels? Did a stocker at the company add them as a way to kill the last few hours of a work week? Or was the stock a leftover intended for a higher-grade gun, and since A.H. Fox was nearing its end, the company  wanted to use it up?

Of course, the other possible answers to this riddle are a restock — maybe by Savage at a later date or by someone else — or maybe even little custom work to the wood after the gun after it was delivered (I doubt this, though). But even if one of those are the case, this side-by-side is still a nice little double.

Fox Sterlingworth 20GA. NICE! Straight Stock!

A.H. Fox Sterlingworth SxS 20ga 2 3/4", Straight Stock, Skeet & Upland Game?
A.H. Fox Sterlingworth SxS 20ga 2 3/4″, Straight Stock, Skeet & Upland Game?

Fox Sterlingworth SxS 20ga 2 3/4″
Action tight Bluing 85%. Case color 12%
Desirable 26” barrels
Straight Stock! Wood shows handling wear. Has recoil pad installed
Acouple shallow dings in the barrels from over the years
LOP – 15 1/8 DAC – 1 1/4” DAH – 2 3/8”
Great light weight gun weighing in at 6lbs 2oz
Middle barrel bead, double triggers, extractors, box lock

Price: $1,850

A.H. Fox Sterlingworth SxS 20ga 2 3/4", Straight Stock, Skeet & Upland Game?
A.H. Fox Sterlingworth SxS 20ga 2 3/4″, Straight Stock, Skeet & Upland Game?
A.H. Fox Sterlingworth SxS 20ga 2 3/4", Straight Stock, Skeet & Upland Game?
A.H. Fox Sterlingworth SxS 20ga 2 3/4″, Straight Stock, Skeet & Upland Game?

Auction alert: 16 gauge A.H. Fox Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland game …

Fox Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland Game 16 Ga Straight Stock Shotgun, 28” - Made 1935 – Mod & Imp Mod – 6 Lb 7 Oz
Fox Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland Game 16 Ga Straight Stock Shotgun, 28” – Made 1935 – Mod & Imp Mod – 6 Lb 7 Oz

Here is a hard Fox to find. It’s a 16g Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland Game gun and it’s on Gunbroker.com now. The auction ends 8/24/2015 @9:30:00 PM ET.

The Sterlingworth Skeet and Upland Game Gun was introduced in 1935. Skeet was new sport then, having been invented in 1920 by Charles Davis, a grouse hunter from Andover, MA.

In 1926, William Harnden Foster introduced Skeet to America with an article in the February issue ofNational Sportsman and Hunting and Fishing magazine. The game boomed in popularity and by the ’30s makers  offers shotguns tailored for the sport.

Fox Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland Game 16 Ga Straight Stock Shotgun, 28” - Made 1935 – Mod & Imp Mod – 6 Lb 7 Oz
Fox Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland Game 16 Ga Straight Stock Shotgun, 28” – Made 1935 – Mod & Imp Mod – 6 Lb 7 Oz

Fox added the Skeet & Upland Game Gun to their line in 1935 to “…meet the demand for a moderately priced skeet and upland game double gun”. They were offered in 12, 16 & 20 gauge, and with 26″ & 28″ barrels.

BTW: For a comp, here’s a nearly-new 16g with 26″ barrels that sold a couple years ago.

Fox Sterlingworth 16 Ga Straight Stock Shotgun, 28” – Made 1935 – Mod & Imp Mod – 6 Lb 7 Oz: This Fox Sterlingworth bears a Utica barrel address, was made in 1936 (SN 3726xx), has 28” barrels choked Modified and Improved Modified with 2-3/4” chambers and mid/front ivory beads, automatic safety, straight stock, extractors, 2-1/2” DAH, 1-5/8” DAC and 13-3/8” & 14-1/8 LOP. The weight is a handy 6 pounds, 7 ounces.

Fox Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland Game 16 Ga Straight Stock Shotgun, 28” - Made 1935 – Mod & Imp Mod – 6 Lb 7 Oz
Fox Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland Game 16 Ga Straight Stock Shotgun, 28” – Made 1935 – Mod & Imp Mod – 6 Lb 7 Oz

It retains about 65% blue with most of the thinning on the sides and a small ding in the right tube 10-1/4” from the breech that is barely visible inside. There’s also evidence of a very shallow dent on the bottom of the left tube 5” from the muzzle that seems to have been professionally removed. The bores are perfect mirrors and examination with a Hawkeye bore scope yields no indication of polishing. The frame retains 60% of original case color. The stocks are completely sound with scattered light to moderate handling marks (mostly light) and a repaired small, shallow chip on the right side of the butt plate. It is 100% on-face, lock-up is as tight as a vault (tested with the forend removed) and the top lever comes to rest well right of center. Though this gun has a short tang there are known factory examples of short tang straight stocked guns and there is absolutely no sign of it having been modified. A very nice 16 gauge that, on handling, one can immediately feel will comport itself quite well in the field.

Fox Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland Game 16 Ga Straight Stock Shotgun, 28” - Made 1935 – Mod & Imp Mod – 6 Lb 7 Oz
Fox Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland Game 16 Ga Straight Stock Shotgun, 28” – Made 1935 – Mod & Imp Mod – 6 Lb 7 Oz
Fox Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland Game 16 Ga Straight Stock Shotgun, 28” - Made 1935 – Mod & Imp Mod – 6 Lb 7 Oz
Fox Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland Game 16 Ga Straight Stock Shotgun, 28” – Made 1935 – Mod & Imp Mod – 6 Lb 7 Oz
Fox Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland Game 16 Ga Straight Stock Shotgun, 28” - Made 1935 – Mod & Imp Mod – 6 Lb 7 Oz
Fox Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland Game 16 Ga Straight Stock Shotgun, 28” – Made 1935 – Mod & Imp Mod – 6 Lb 7 Oz

Good gun alert: Nice looking 16g A.H. Fox Sterlingworth …

A.H. Fox Sterlingworth 16 GA Utica NY. 28” barrels
A.H. Fox Sterlingworth 16 GA Utica NY. 28” barrels

Here’s a great way to start an affair with nice American doubles. With 28″ barrels and what looks like an all-original finish, this Fox Sterlingworth is nice. And the price  –$1095 — makes is even nicer.

From 1910 to about 1940, A.H. Fox and then the Savage Arms Company built around 140,000 Sterlingworths. Most were 12 gauges, but about 23,000 were 16s. Whatever the gauge, these side-by-sides were, and still are, great doubles — especially when they’re priced right.

A.H. Fox Sterlingworth 16 GA Utica NY. 28” barrels
A.H. Fox Sterlingworth 16 GA Utica NY. 28” barrels

A.H. Fox Sterlingworth 16 GA Utica NY. 28” barrels. Tight Full/Tight Mod. LOP 14 1/8” & 13 ¼”, DAC 1 5/8”, DAH 2 5/8”. Chambered for 2 ½” shells. Numbers matching gun. Condition: Barrels have a nice ring to them. Bright shinny bore. Right barrel has imperfection about 14” in. Signs of imperfection are visible from outside if looking down the side of barrel. Tight solid action. Barrel lever is right of center. Nice shooter. Price: $1,095

A.H. Fox Sterlingworth 16 GA Utica NY. 28” barrels
A.H. Fox Sterlingworth 16 GA Utica NY. 28” barrels

Head scratcher: a12g A.H. Fox A grade, straight grip, 32″ bbls …

A.H. Fox "A" Grade 12 bore, Philly SxS Shotgun, 32" bbls
A.H. Fox “A” Grade 12 bore, Philly SxS Shotgun, 32″ bbls

It’s rare that a twelve-gauge, A-grade Fox excites me. But when I saw this one, I started doing the mental math to figure out how to pay for it. With it’s straight grip and 32″ barrels, it’s an unusual A grade.

But even though the gun looks right, that butt stock has me scratching my head. Is it really original? Te fact that it’s “cast on” for a lefty raises questions. If I were going to add this SxS to my safe, I would be sure to take a much closer look at it (and probably order a letter from The A.H. Fox Collector’s Club).

A.H. Fox “A” Grade 12 bore, Philly SxS Shotgun: 32″ bbls. choked tight & full, DT’s, extractor, oil finished hand checkered American walnut, 14 1/4″ LOP over factory buttplate, 1/4″ cast ‘ON’ (left handed favorable), 75% case colors, 95% bbl. blue, most minor of handling, This Fox is pure & has mountains of curb appeal (Phizazz) tight as new & all original so. Price: $3,999

A.H. Fox "A" Grade 12 bore, Philly SxS Shotgun, 32" bblsA.H. Fox "A" Grade 12 bore, Philly SxS Shotgun, 32" bbls
A.H. Fox “A” Grade 12 bore, Philly SxS Shotgun, 32″ bbls
A.H. Fox "A" Grade 12 bore, Philly SxS Shotgun, 32" bbls
A.H. Fox “A” Grade 12 bore, Philly SxS Shotgun, 32″ bbls
A.H. Fox "A" Grade 12 bore, Philly SxS Shotgun, 32" bbls
A.H. Fox “A” Grade 12 bore, Philly SxS Shotgun, 32″ bbls

Auction Alert: 12g Fox Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland Game Gun…

12g Fox Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland Game Gun
12g Fox Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland Game Gun

Here’s a tough shotgun to find. A.H. Fox introduced their Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland Game Gun in 1935 to meet the demand for the new shooting sport sweeping across the nation: SKEET.

This SxS came in 12g, 16g & 20g and 26″ barrels. It could be with or without ejectors, and if you wanted to upgrade it a bit, a Fox-Kautzky selective single trigger, a beavertail forend, a recoil pad and/or ivory sights. According to the Fox Collectors website, A.H. Fox Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland Game SxS shotgun, this SxS was introduced:

12g Fox Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland Game Gun
12g Fox Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland Game Gun

“To meet the demand for a moderately priced skeet and upland game double gun we have produced the famous Fox-Sterlingworth gun in this new straight grip model with 26″ barrels bored: right skeet, cylinder, left quarter choke. This is a standard stock model possessing the features of skeet boring and stock design heretofore available only in custom-built guns.”

I owned one of these in 20g, and it was decent little double. This one would make a great all around upland gun.

12g Fox Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland Game Gun: Barrels are 26” long with skeet / ¼ choke, solid rib, and good bores. Break open double barrel shotgun. Metal retains most of its original blue and casehardened finish, Checkered walnut wood with period recoil pad. Extractors and double triggers. Mfg 1935 to 1945 SN: 160260 Condition: Very Good.

12g Fox Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland Game Gun
12g Fox Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland Game Gun
12g Fox Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland Game Gun
12g Fox Sterlingworth Skeet & Upland Game Gun

Great gun alert: A.H. Fox CE 20 gauge…

A.H. Fox CE Grade 20ga double barrel SxS shotgun
A.H. Fox CE Grade 20ga double barrel SxS shotgun

Here’s one of the Holy Grails of American shotguns. A.H. Fox made very few graded, 20 gauge double, and one in a CE-grade is very tough to do. This one here sure looks original, and the stock is high enough to make the gun really usable.

A.H. Fox CE Grade 20ga double barrel SxS shotgun:  Early gun manufactured in 1915, SN: 2007xx.  26″ M/F Krupp Steel barrels with very good blue.  Ejectors.  Very nice wood in excellent condition, modern, shootable dimensions at 14″ LOP, 2 1/2″ DAH for original buttplate. Gun weighs right about 6 lbs,  points and swings like a dream. Case colors in protected areas.  Beautiful, early engraving in excellent condition.  This gun comes with documentation and will letter if owner so desires.   A rare opportunity to own a nice, original example of an early graded  AH Fox  shotgun produced when quality was at its best. Price: $12,500.

A.H. Fox CE Grade 20ga double barrel SxS shotgun
A.H. Fox CE Grade 20ga double barrel SxS shotgun
A.H. Fox CE Grade 20ga double barrel SxS shotgun
A.H. Fox CE Grade 20ga double barrel SxS shotgun
A.H. Fox CE Grade 20ga double barrel SxS shotgun
A.H. Fox CE Grade 20ga double barrel SxS shotgun

Auction alert: Two HE Super Foxes, a 12 & a super-rare 20 gauge…

Rare 20 gauge A. H. Fox He Grade Superfox Double Ejectorgun Shipped To E.C. Crossman
Rare 20 gauge A. H. Fox He Grade Superfox Double Ejectorgun Shipped To E.C. Crossman

Here are two tough-to find American doubles coming to auction. They’re both A.H. Fox HE SxS, one in 12 gauge and one in 20 gauge. Both are coming up this weekend at Amoskeag Auctions March sale.

Fox made about 300 of these HE-grade Super Fox side-by-side shotguns — just sixty in 20 gauge and the rest in 12. All of them were heavy, overbored doubles made for wildfowling with Western Cartridge’s new-at-the-time Super-X ammo.

Lot # 85: Rare A. H. Fox He Grade Superfox Double Ejectorgun Shipped To E.C. Crossman. Serial #202292, 20 Ga. (2 3/4”), 32” Chromox barrels choked full and full with bright excellent bores showing just some faint remnants of light pitting in a couple spots with a tiny dent in the right tube near the muzzles which was professionally raised. The barrels retain about 90% original blue, the loss due to overall light fading, actually appearing much stronger undernormal ambient light. The frame is lovely and retains 75-80% original color case-hardening which is quite vivid, the belly of frame toning to a silvery case-hardened patina; it features light fancy borderline engraving with little floral sprays around the pins and screw holes.

Rare 20 gauge A. H. Fox He Grade Superfox Double Ejectorgun Shipped To E.C. Crossman
Rare 20 gauge A. H. Fox He Grade Superfox Double Ejectorgun Shipped To E.C. Crossman

The gun is stocked half-pistolgrip in a nice grade of walnut, the stock rating very good plus to near excellent with much original varnish and only minor dings and handling marks from the years. It is fitted with a more contemporary Hawkins recoil pad, added to the contour of the butt, the original pad having deteriorated with the years, the length of pull is 14 7/16” with drops of 1 1/2” and 2 7/8”; the forend is a bit darker and rates very good plus as well showing a thin sliver of bedding compound at its junction with the forend iron. The gun locks up Fox-tight with the top lever still right of center, the gun seems to operate well mechanically and the ejectors are robust; the safety is non-automatic. The included factory letter confirms the configuration and shows shipment to none other than E.C. Crossman on August 14, 1925 “for Phill Crosman” (sic). Savage historian John T. Callahan took the liberty of including copies of the original build card and job tag for the shotgun. The build card, under the “For” heading reads “E.C. Crossman”, the rear of the card showing pellet count for left and right barrels. The job tag reads on front and back: “Test Gun and send to Phill Crosman” and “Mr. Roll This Gun shoots 79% in 5 shots out of Right bbl 79 1/2% out of 5 shots in Left bbl B.Becker”, obviously from the renowned Burt Becker to Adolph Roll, Fox Sales Manager. With only sixty 20 ga. Super Fox shotguns ever made, this is a really rare and lovely Super Fox in its own right, all-the-more desireable with the connection to the famous Crossman clan. Truly a super – Super Fox. Estimate: $8000 – $10000.

12 gauge A. H. Fox He Grade Super Fox Boxlock Double Ejectorgun.
12 gauge A. H. Fox He Grade Super Fox Boxlock Double Ejectorgun.

Lot # 386: A. H. Fox He Grade Super Fox Boxlock Double Ejectorgun: Serial #29562, 12 Ga. (3”), 30” barrels choked full and full with bright excellent bores. The barrels retain about 98% excellent quality restored blue finish with some light muzzle wear and a remnant or two of light pitting beneath. The frame is lovely retaining 99% restored vibrant color case-hardening with the familiar light H-grade borderline engraving and makers name; the triggerguard shows excellent blue as well. The round knob pistolgrip buttstock rates excellent as professionally refinished with evidence of a repaired crack at left and right of top tang; it seems to have been effective and the stock seems sound and will not flex. The splinter forend is in a similar state of condition and both show perfectly chased checkering.

12 gauge A. H. Fox He Grade Super Fox Boxlock Double Ejectorgun.
12 gauge A. H. Fox He Grade Super Fox Boxlock Double Ejectorgun.

The length of pull to the grooved hard rubber buttplate is 14 1/8” with drops of 1 5/8” and 3” (although the factory letter indicates 2 3/4”, the stock appears original in all respects). The safety is non-automatic and two of the screws show some light slot damage…they are not quite regulated and clearly someone with an incorrect width blade attempted to turn them. The gun locks up tightly with the top lever still right of center and the gun seems to operate properly mechanically. The included factory letter verifies the configuration and shows shipment in September of 1925 to W. R. Burkhard Co. (St. Paul Minn.). Really an excellent as-restored Super Fox that should be taken back afield for some waterfowl bustin in the fall seasons. Estimate: $2500 – $4000

This week’s good guns: Powered by Gunsinternational.com…

Parker DHE 28ga SxS Skeet Gun (Remington Era)
Parker DHE 28ga SxS Skeet Gun (Remington Era)

Parker DHE 28ga SxS Skeet Gun (Remington Era): A beautiful RARE 28ga DHE Skeet gun has 26in barrels  skeet in /skeet out has a 00 Frame  single trigger Beavertail straight english stock to a checkered butt  gorgeous wood  one mark otherwis mint silver oval  no initials  98% easy case colors and blue. Price: $49,000

BERETTA – SO5 / SO3EELL – Hand Detachable Locks – Checkered Butt – Like New: 1970 12ga, 26″, IC / IC (.008 / .011), LOP 14-9/16″, Drop 1-7/16 to 2-3/8, Neutral Cast, Weight 6 lbs. 6 oz. 100% Coverage – Hand Engraved. Hand Detachable Sidelock. Gold Crown Inlay. Pierced Top Lever. Hand Filed Rib. Ivory Sights. Single Selective Trigger. Checkered Butt. Excellent weight and chokes for a 12ga Upland Game Gun. Condition is “Like New.” Price: $8,500

BERETTA - SO5 / SO3EELL - Hand Detachable Locks - Checkered Butt - Like New
BERETTA – SO5 / SO3EELL – Hand Detachable Locks – Checkered Butt – Like New
LC SMITH Model 5E SXS 12 GA
LC SMITH Model 5E SXS 12 GA

LC SMITH Model 5E  SXS  12 GA: Serial #205881, 30″ bbls, F&F, 2 1/2″ chambers, Hunter one trigger, Straight Grip, Splinter Forearm, Matted Concave Rib, Casehardened Receiver, Game Scene Cameos Engraving, Vintage Hawkins pad, EXC. Condition, 7#15oz, 1 1/2″ x 2 5/8″ x 14″ with 1/8 cast off. This is a high condition original gun. Price $8,000

A. H. Fox, A Grade, 20 Gauge, Side-by-Side – Gorgeous: 26″ BARRELS, FULL & MODIFIED, 99% BRIGHT BLUE, MIRROR BORES, TWIN IVORY SIGHTS.  ATTRACTIVE DEEP CUT ENGRAVING, SOME BOLD VIVID CASE COLOR.  ROUND KNOB GRIP STOCK, BEAVERTAIL FOREARM, ABOUT PERFECT WOOD AND CHECKERING, 100% TRIGGER GUARD BLUE.  GREAT DIMENSIONS 1 1/2″ X 2 3/8″ X 14″, 6 POUNDS 2 OUNCES.  GORGEOUS LITTLE FOX MADE IN 1922. Price: $6,500

A. H. Fox, A Grade, 20 Gauge, Side-by-Side - Gorgeous
A. H. Fox, A Grade, 20 Gauge, Side-by-Side – Gorgeous
ITHACA 1916 FLUES HAMMERLESS 4E GRADE 12GA. 3" SHOTGUN 98% PLUS ORIGINAL CONDITION
ITHACA 1916 FLUES HAMMERLESS 4E GRADE 12GA. 3″ SHOTGUN 98% PLUS ORIGINAL CONDITION

ITHACA 1916 FLUES HAMMERLESS 4E GRADE 12GA. 3″ SHOTGUN 98% PLUS ORIGINAL CONDITION: ITHACA 1916 FLUES 4E GRADE HAMMERLESS 12GA. SHOTGUN,S/N 2719XX. 28″ SOLID RIB BARRELS WITH EXCELLENT BORES AND 2 IVORY BEADS.3″ CHAMBERS,CHOKED MODIFIED (.017) CONSTRICTION AND IMPROVED CYLINDER (.007) CONSTRICTION.99% ORIGINAL BARREL BLUE.FIGURED AMERICAN WALNUT WITH BEAUTIFUL ORIGINAL FLUE DE LEA CHECKERING WITH BLACK TIP FOREARM,PISTOL GRIP CAP AND GOLD SHIELD.L.O.P. IS 14 1/2″ OVER SOLID RUBBER PAD,D.A.H. IS 2 7/8″ AND D.A.C. IS 1 7/8″ WITH NEUTRAL CAST.GUN WEIGHS 7 LBS. ORIGINAL GOLD DOUBLE TRIGGERS WITHOUT ANY WEAR.GUN LOOKS TO HAVE BEEN FIRED EXTREMELY LITTLE.ENGRAVED RECEIVER WITH 85% PLUS ORIGINAL VIVID CASE COLOR REMAINING,HAS DOG AND BIRD SCENES.A SUPER ORIGINAL CONDITION 4E 1916 12GA. SHOTGUN. Price: $4,250

Auction alert: a 12 gauge A.H. Fox BE SxS shotgun…

A. H. Fox Grade BE, 12 ga. side by side shotgun
A. H. Fox Grade BE, 12 ga. side by side shotgun

Here’s another nice American SxS you don’t want to miss. This one is an A.H. Fox BE. It’s on Gunrunner.com now and the online auction ends tomorrow, 02/13/15, @ 19:20:00 EST. This B-grade features Fox’s earlier engraving pattern. Later Bs look more like this one here.

A. H. Fox Grade BE, 12 ga. side by side shotgun: Serial #12537, mfg. 1909 in Philadelphia, PA. Very good condition! Very desirable Ashley H. Fox double with 30″ solid rib Krupp steel barrels! Bright bores. Tight lock-up. A real gentleman’s gun with double triggers and ejectors (they work great and flung the empties across the room!). 90% blue on the barrels with some fading and light field marks. All matching iron. Stock is very nice with great waves and burl. Hard buttplate. Receiver is gray with only a little faded case-color in protected areas and top of frame. Nicely engraved with quail and snipe on either side of the receiver and light scroll. Marked “Krupp Fluid Steel” on barrel top with “A.H. Fox Gun Co., Phil., PA”. Splinter forearm. Round knob stock with nice fine-line checkering – some slight smoothness as expected. Brass front bead. An American Classic – nice shooting dimensions – light weight – beautifully balanced. Includes a vintage softcase, and cleaning kit. Great find!

A. H. Fox Grade BE, 12 ga. side by side shotgun
A. H. Fox Grade BE, 12 ga. side by side shotgun
A. H. Fox Grade BE, 12 ga. side by side shotgun
A. H. Fox Grade BE, 12 ga. side by side shotgun
A. H. Fox Grade BE, 12 ga. side by side shotgun
A. H. Fox Grade BE, 12 ga. side by side shotgun