Gun ID

[WillRay]

I just recently dicovered this forum and am seeking help with identification of a gun once owned by my wife's grandfather. Here is the information I have. The gun is a 16ga with 28" barrel, RH is stamped 3 and LH 6. Serial is 362744 and the gun's sagety slide appears to be from 1920's. I can provide Patent dates if needed. I have not clearly read grade, but expect it is A grade?? Any help or thoughts shared will be appreciated.
Thanks, Will

[ASavageFox]

not sure what the stamping of a 6 means.

Your gun is not a graded gun, it is called a Sterlingworth as should be written on the receiver sides. Post some pics, it will help with particulars.

[fullchoke16]

WillRay,
What you have there(by the ser. no.) is a 16 gauge Sterlingworth. Made in Phila.,1928. The 3 on the barrel is a weight marking. If you look closer, you'll probably find that the number on the other barrel is also a 3 as the barrels were paired by weight of unstruck barrels.Graded guns will say Ansley H. Fox on the side panels.
Also, grade will be marked on the barrel flat as well as on the action water table. Hope this helps.
Fred

[WillRay]

Thanks for the replies. Fred, you are right. When I looked at barrel again, you can see that even though it looks like a 6, the "top" of the 3 must be worn away. Also I did not see a grade mark and just thought it may have been worn away too. Can I assume that since it is not graded, there is little value other than centimental? I will see if I can post pictures later.
Thanks.

[ASavageFox]

if the gun is in good shape its worth a fair bit of money... pictures will help determine that. It could anywhere from $500 to $3000. Check online gun auction sites like www.gunbroker.com they are a good reference for market value.

[fullchoke16]

Keep in mind that this is a Fox web site and the majority of us got interested in Fox guns via the Sterlingworth model. Fox guns are sort of unique in that they are all(models) built very much the same,so don't ever think that a Sterlingworth is inferior to graded guns. Wood grade, engraving, checkering and a few other bells and whistles are really what the difference is. That is the reason that Sterly and Sterly Ejector models are often used as a basis for custom gun projects Condition as always is what determines price. Look at the Sterlys on this web site and you'll get an idea of what an average condition gun looks like vs a high cond. gun. The guns you'll see for sale on Gunbroker are for the most part a bit optimistic,price wise. Some have been relisted on there for years simply because a gun is really only worth what some one will actually pay for it vs what the seller would like to get for it. All that said, the auction sites should give you a rough idea on the price.Are you a shooter/hunter? If so, have the gun checked by a competent gunsmith. If he says it's OK to shoot then you're in for a treat when you start shooting a Fox. (Again, keep in mind that this is a Fox Coll. site and my opinion could be slightly biased) Any day shooting is a good day. Fred

[WillRay]

Fred, I am far from being knowledgeable about Fox history, thus the reason I rely on this forum. That said, I thank you for your thoughts. I have shot the gun but it has been a few years, and it seemed very "sweet" in my opinion. From my perspective, with a little TLC the gun would be considered in quite good condition. It still has that distinctive "clilck" as I expect all Sterlingworths have. I have a couple of pictures, but plan to take more and post later. I also plan to take it to a reputable person to get the TLC mentioned. It was owned by my wife' grandfather, so she is actual owner now, and has been offered a substantial price. Wether or not the guy had a clue of the guns true value is unknown.
Thanks, Will

[fullchoke16]

WillRay, Like many members here, I inherited my first Fox and learned shortly there after that dear old Grand Dad knew a good gun when he saw one. Everybody's situation is different but I wouldn't part with Paps 16 for a Jillion$. Looking forward to seeing yours. Fred