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I just joined the Fox collectors forum since I recently acquired what I think is a 1927 Fox Sterlingworth, based on info that I got off the Fox Collector's site. The serial number is 100583, and it has a barrel weight stamp of "2" on it. I think it's a 12-gauge; it looks like one and a 12-gauge 3" shell fits easily in it, but I don't know how to confirm gauge size. Barrels are 28". I can't find a grade stamp on it, don't think it has one. I attached a few pics that I hope will confirm my identification.
It has an old handmade leather stock protector on that I'd like to remove, and I am considering whether or not to have the piece restored. I am not a gun collector per se, and only own a couple of antique guns that were given to me but none are in comparable condition to this beauty. I'm looking for any advice on how to properly remove the stock protector, and whether or not to have the gun "restored" in terms of its value. If there is a concensus is to restore it - what/where is best way to do that?
As far as I can tell it is in exceptional condition. It was used for quail hunting until about 50 years ago, when the owner acquired a new gun. They have not used it since then, but it seems to be in good working order since it opens and closes nicely and all the normal functions appear to work as expected.
Welcome to the forum and the world of A.H. Fox. Congratulations on your new to you Sterlingworth! First let me say DO NOT use 3" ammunition in your Fox! Its original factory chambering was for 2 5/8" only. You would be ahead to take your Sterly to a qualified and reputable gunsmith to have the gun inspected and chambers measured to determine correct ammo and find out the chokes too. Lots of folks here love RST ammo for our vintage guns. It looks like that Fox has alot of character from many long gone days behind great quail dogs! I wouldn't do anything to it other than light cleaning. That ol' girl still has a lot of memories to give!
The Sterlingworth 12 gauge was the most common gun Fox made. While it appears to be in good working order, restoration to make it as it left the factory would be quite expensive. That gun in excellent condition is most likely a $1,200 gun and complete restoration would be cost much more then that. I'd provide it to a good doublegun smith and have him go over it from stem to stern as they say. That individual can likely remove the old leather type pad and see what's underneath. RST was mentioned and that's the way to go regarding ammo. PS. Welcome to the Fox world and have fun.
Another Welcome greeting and congrat's on your first Fox.
Good advice given above.
It is a Sterlingworth grade and is a 12 gauge as confirmed by the serial number. And chambered to shoot 2 3/4 inch shells. Shoot light target loads and no steel shot.
Good recommendations on taking it to a gunsmith that is genuinely knowledgeable about vintage doubles.
Resist suggestions to have the gun reblued and refinished. A good cleanup and inspection is what you're looking for.
What area of the country are you located? Some knowledgeable collectors in your area can check it over also.
The barrels look to be about 28 +/- 1/8 inch. What do they measure? 26", 28", 30" or 32"?
Now for the experts, third picture down, I see a bit of minor pitting. I know this isn’t structural in nature but more cosmetic. What are your thoughts? Is there anything Jeff should look into.
Thanks for all the info, very helpful. I'd like to have a vintage doublegun smith look it over, remove the old leather pad, clean it, and confirm the proper ammo for use if possible. Can any of you recommend a gunsmith in Maryland or nearby? Thank you!
Birdlvr wrote:Thanks for all the info, very helpful. I'd like to have a vintage doublegun smith look it over, remove the old leather pad, clean it, and confirm the proper ammo for use if possible. Can any of you recommend a gunsmith in Maryland or nearby? Thank you!
I have heard this place mentioned by a number of folks over the years. I have no first hand experience. I do know they seem to sell a lot of classic guns:
