
I can be hard on American shotguns. Parkers, L.C. Smiths. Foxes, Lefevers, Ithacas –I’ve owned them all, and it’s not that I don’t think they’re decent doubles. It’s just that they’re WAY too expensive today.
Once you get over the sentimental thrill of owning an “Old Reliable”, you realize the prices for Parkers and other made-in-the-USA SxSs are more about nostalgia than quality. This 20 gauge Parker A-1 Special is a perfect example. While it sold for$253,000, this 20 gauge, $8.750 Francotte is a better gun.

All that being said, every now and then though I come across an American-made SxS that I see as being true to its heritage. This 12 gauge A.H. Fox Sterlingworth with ejectors is that kind of gun.
Sterlingworths were built to affordable, practical doubles appropriate for all kinds of shooting. And this gun is just that. At this price, it’s just what Fox wanted Sterlingworth to be: A ton of gun for the money (AKA a great deal).
Fox Sterlingworth 12 Gauge SXS Shotgun: With 28″ Barrels, Choked IC/Mod, Double Triggers, Auto Ejectors, Barrels 90% And Thinning, Receiver 20% Case Colors, Wood 60% With Handling Marks, 1927 Philadelphia Gun. Price: $895
