HISTORY and SERIAL NUMBERS FOR A.H. FOX GUNS MANUFACTURED FROM 1907

A.H. Fox is one of the most respected names in American gunmaking, best known for producing durable, elegantly simple, and highly regarded double-barrel shotguns. Founded in the early 20th century, the company quickly earned a reputation for building “the finest gun in the world,” a slogan proudly associated with its products.

Serial Numbers of A.H.FOX guns made from 1907 to 1940 find on the bottom of this article

Origins and Founder (Early 1900s)

The company was founded by Ansley Herman Fox, an innovative and determined firearms designer. Prior to establishing his own firm, Fox had already gained experience in the gun industry and developed a reputation for mechanical ingenuity.

In 1905, he introduced his first shotgun design, and by 1906 he formally established the A.H. Fox Gun Company in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. From the beginning, Fox aimed to produce a shotgun that combined strength, simplicity, and performance.

Design Philosophy and Early Success

Ansley Fox’s approach to gunmaking differed from many of his contemporaries. Rather than focusing on overly complex mechanisms, he emphasized:

• Mechanical simplicity
• Durability under heavy use
• Ease of maintenance
• Strong lockup and reliability

The result was a side-by-side boxlock shotgun that was both rugged and refined. Fox shotguns quickly gained popularity among American hunters and sport shooters, especially those who valued a dependable field gun.

The company’s advertising boldly described its product as “The Finest Gun in the World,” reflecting confidence in both design and performance.

Key Models and Grades

A.H. Fox shotguns were offered in a wide range of grades, allowing customers to choose between practical field guns and highly engraved, luxurious pieces.

Common grades included:

• Sterlingworth (entry-level field grade)
• A Grade
• B Grade
• C Grade
• D Grade
• F Grade (highly engraved, premium quality)

The Sterlingworth, introduced in 1910, became one of the most popular American double guns ever made. It was designed as an affordable, no-nonsense shotgun while still maintaining the strength and reliability of higher-grade Fox guns.

Mechanical Features of Fox Shotguns

A.H. Fox shotguns are especially known for their strong and simple internal design.

Key mechanical characteristics:

• Boxlock action with a compact and durable layout
• Rotary bolt locking system for added strength
• Minimal internal parts compared to competing designs
• Robust frame capable of handling heavy loads

This simplicity made Fox shotguns easier to maintain and less prone to mechanical failure, contributing to their long-standing reputation for reliability.

Golden Age and Popularity (1910s–1920s)

The 1910s and 1920s are often considered the golden age of A.H. Fox. During this time, the company produced thousands of shotguns that were widely used across the United States.

Fox shotguns became especially popular among upland bird hunters and waterfowlers. Their balance, durability, and straightforward design made them ideal for real-world hunting conditions.

High-grade Fox guns also gained recognition for their fine engraving and wood quality, competing with other premium American and European makers.

Acquisition by Savage Arms (1929)

In 1929, the A.H. Fox Gun Company was acquired by Savage Arms, a major American firearms manufacturer. Production was moved from Philadelphia to Utica, New York.

Under Savage ownership, Fox shotguns—particularly the Sterlingworth—continued to be produced, though with some simplifications to reduce manufacturing costs.

Despite these changes, the core design and reputation for durability remained intact.

Decline and End of Production

Like many American double gun makers, A.H. Fox faced declining demand during the mid-20th century. Pump-action and semi-automatic shotguns became more popular, offering higher capacity and lower cost.

Production of Fox shotguns gradually declined, and by the 1940s, regular manufacturing had largely ceased.

Legacy and Collector Interest

Today, A.H. Fox shotguns are highly valued by collectors and shooters alike. Their reputation for strength and reliability has endured for over a century.

The Sterlingworth, in particular, remains a favorite among enthusiasts looking for a classic American double gun that is still practical for field use.

Higher-grade Fox guns are prized for their craftsmanship, engraving, and historical significance, often commanding premium prices on the collector market.

Types of Firearms Produced

1. Side-by-Side Shotguns

The primary product of A.H. Fox, these shotguns were available in multiple grades and configurations, suitable for both hunting and sport shooting.

2. Sterlingworth Field Guns

Designed as a durable and affordable option, the Sterlingworth became one of the most successful American shotguns ever produced.

3. High-Grade Custom Guns

Fox also produced finely engraved, custom-built shotguns with premium materials and craftsmanship, rivaling the best gunmakers of the era.

Conclusion

A.H. Fox stands as a symbol of American gunmaking at its peak, combining practical design with refined craftsmanship. Its shotguns were built not just for display, but for hard use in the field, a quality that continues to define the brand’s legacy.

From the rugged Sterlingworth to the finely engraved high-grade models, A.H. Fox firearms remain a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, strong, and beautifully made sporting guns.

GRADE A-F 12 GAUGE

GRADE A-F 16 GAUGE

GRADE A-F 20 GAUGE