Savage Arms Corp. Fox Sterlingworth 28″ 16 Gauge Solid Rib SxS Side-By-Side Shotgun, MFD 1938 C&R

SOLD FOR: $1,337.44
LSB#: 180614GD07

Make: Fox by Savage

Model: Sterlingworth 16 Gauge

Serial Number: 375386

Year of Manufacture: 1938

Gauge: 16 Gauge, 2 3/4” Shells

Action Type: Top-Break Side by Side with Automatic Extractors

Markings: The top of the left barrel is marked “SAVAGE ARMS CORPORATION, UTICA, N.Y. U.S.A.”, the top of the right is marked “SPECIAL ALLOY-FORGED STEEL”. The barrel flat is marked “375386” and “SP” in oval with two inspector marks. The left and right flat portions of the receiver are marked “FOX STERLINGWORTH” and the water table is marked “375386” and “16”. The forend bracket is marked “375386”. The bottom tang is also marked “375386”.

Barrel Length: 28”

Choke: Left: Modified, Right: Improved Cylinder, both Fixed

Sights / Optics: There is a brass bead at the front of the serrated solid rib.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece checkered walnut with splinter forend, pistol grip, straight comb, and serrated black hard rubber buttplate. The stocks have a few scattered light compressions and scratches. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is well defined. The drop at heel measures 2 1/2″. The drop at comb measures 1 1/2″. The LOP measures 14 1/4” and 13 3/8″ from the front of the triggers to the back of the buttplate. The plate has light wear at the heel and toe, in about Very Good condition. The stocks rate in about Fine overall condition.

Type of Finish: Blue Barrels with Case Colored Receiver

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bores are bright. There is no erosion.

Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 80% of its metal finish. The barrels have some scattered light marks with light finish wear toward the chamber end. The receiver retains strong case-color at the top and rear with handling wear on the bottom and sides foward of the trigger guard. The trigger guard has light finish wear with a few spots of discoloration from oxidation and the bottom tang is worn to white with some spots of discoloration from oxidation. The screw heads are lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun rates in about Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The barrels lock up with no play to the receiver. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: This is a fine example of a quality made affordable shotgun from the early 20th century. A.H. Fox  Gun Company offered the first double barrel shotgun produced in America with a receiver specifically designed for the smaller 20 gauge shell, and went on to be acquired by Savage Arms who continued production into the late 1930s. This example is chambered for 16 Gauge and is in Very Good condition. The bores are bright, the lockup is tight and about 80% of its finish is remaining. This should make a great hunting shotgun for lifetimes to come. Please see our photos and good luck!

CA Legal or CA Private Party Transferable: This C&R eligible shotgun can be transferred in California.