An interesting Fox that could use a little love
Posted: Sun Sep 20, 2026 12:32 am
Hello everyone,
I recently have joined this collectors association because I’ve been doing some research on a family piece. It’s a 16 gauge AE grade with some cool features. It has 26 inch barrels, a single selective trigger, and most interestingly, it has an absolutely gorgeous piece of wood with checkered cheeks that was custom ordered/provided. The factory tag lists “use wood they will send”. I will post some photos of the wood because it’s truly beautiful. However, my great grandfather and his descendants have put many coats of varnish over the stock/fore-end, and it’s to the point that the checkering in some areas is almost completely filled. My question is, I wish to preserve the gun and bring out the best in it rather than refinish it, what are my best options? Having it sent to a woodworker who will do their best to preserve what’s original while removing what isn’t? Or is it preferable just to leave it the way it is. It needs a new recoil pad installed anyway as my great grandfather decided to fit his own Montgomery ward pad to the gun somewhere down the line (uncut stock). The right ejector also doesn’t like to behave but that seems like a more straightforward job that a gunsmith familiar with double guns could tackle. Any input would be much appreciated!
I recently have joined this collectors association because I’ve been doing some research on a family piece. It’s a 16 gauge AE grade with some cool features. It has 26 inch barrels, a single selective trigger, and most interestingly, it has an absolutely gorgeous piece of wood with checkered cheeks that was custom ordered/provided. The factory tag lists “use wood they will send”. I will post some photos of the wood because it’s truly beautiful. However, my great grandfather and his descendants have put many coats of varnish over the stock/fore-end, and it’s to the point that the checkering in some areas is almost completely filled. My question is, I wish to preserve the gun and bring out the best in it rather than refinish it, what are my best options? Having it sent to a woodworker who will do their best to preserve what’s original while removing what isn’t? Or is it preferable just to leave it the way it is. It needs a new recoil pad installed anyway as my great grandfather decided to fit his own Montgomery ward pad to the gun somewhere down the line (uncut stock). The right ejector also doesn’t like to behave but that seems like a more straightforward job that a gunsmith familiar with double guns could tackle. Any input would be much appreciated!