new member, new owner, old questions (s/n age?)

[Kirk A]

This morning, I was lucky enough to be the last bidder on an A grade SxS 12ga, 30" bbls, s/n 169xx. It is beauuuutiful, and all of the numbers match. Perfect case hardening. Perfect metal work. Excellent wood. The worst that can be observed is rubber shoulder pad is showing its age more than anything else.

Speaking of age, where can I look up the production year for my serial number? Despite this being my first SxS, these are not completely unfamiliar to me. My deceased shooting mentor started me with his 12ga Fox-Sterlingworth. That shotgun was, imho, simply telepathic, and certainly this one is something of a nostalgic tribute to his teachings. But it won't sit unused; I can't wait to shoot some clays this one! While I've watched a few come an go over the local auction blocks, during the last couple of years, I was fortunate to bring home this Fox today.

If you have any FAQs or other recommended material for new members, etc, please point those out to me.

Thank you,
Kirk A

[Twice Barrel]

Kirk your A grade was built in 1910/11. It's hard telling when it was refinished.

[Researcher]

At a glance it appears your gun was refurbished by Savage, as those are clearly Savage-era cynide case colors, not the bone & charcoal colors in use when your gun was new. As far as information goes there is lots of it on our web site, just go to our homepage and start hitting buttons -- http://www.foxcollectors.com/

If you join the A.H.FoxCollectors Association,Inc. ($25 annual or $300 life -- http://www.foxcollectors.com/to_join.htm) Wehave a serial number look up service on the members only board.

[George Lander]

Kirk: Buy Mike McIntosh's book on A.H. Fox. It looks like you have a nice one.

Best Regards, George

[Kirk A]

Thanks for the feedback. A mostly complete on-line version of McIntosh's book may be found here: http://books.google.com/books?id=cbRI_7 ... q=&f=false.

Earlier, I described the recoil pad as showing its age the most. It is cracked and hard, and just generally not what I would expect. In other threads here, I have read about two popular pads. What pad(s) do you recommend (i.e., OEM model or type)? From what source(s) are these particular pads available?

Eventually, I will want to pick up a proper case. In the interim, if anyone, after moving up to something snazzier, is interested in selling an old well-weathered traditional case, l may have an interest.

Thanks,
Kirk

[ASavageFox]

kirk,

Can't help yu on the pads but Galazan sells a nice canvas case for $200. I have one and its nice and the price seems very reasonable to me.

[al]

Kirk, check out Jeff's Outfitters they have some really nice cases. Some people might remember them as Cape Outfitters.They also have some other cool things for shotgunners at reasonable prices

[Researcher]

For the vintage of your gun a Silvers is the only pad that would have been original.