Characteristics of a Fox Stock

[Jeff S]

While at a show today, I handled a very nice CE with a straight grip and 26" barrels. I believe that it was a 2nd generation. Now, first of all, if this gun belongs to a member of the forum, I am not trying to find fault with it, or discredit the owner. I'm just seeking "authentication". On Fox guns, I'm accustomed to seeing a certain style or "signature" in the stock. As the wrist transitions into the large portion of the stock, the "rise" has a small flat spot, and the wood has a nice shape as it widens. I can't describe it properly so I have attached a picture. On the gun I held today, this portion of the stock was somewhat "rounded" and didn't have the shaping I'm accustomed to. Unfortunately, I wasn't mentally quick enough check the manufacturing location. Did the profile of the stock change at the Utica Plant? I put a tape measure around the wrist and it appeared to be 4 1/2". Also, for what it's worth, when I shouldered the gun I couldn't help noticing that the checkering was pretty sharp in my hands. Any thoughts?

[fox-admin]

The early guns from the Ansley period have a different shape to the comb nose it is slimmer with a noticeable flat area on the end of the comb. Later guns have a fatter look with a rounded comb nose.
Many XE and above with late style engraving have a comb nose that is very similar to the early era combs, more refined. I have seen many Fox guns but I was fooled recently on a gun I purchased. The gunsmith took it apart for some minor maintenance and it was not stamped with a serial number on the head. It was a very old and well done replacement. Craig

[Jeff S]

Interesting, thanks for the tips. The stock on the CE looked great, but it was slightly different that what I'm accustomed to. Thanks again, Jeff