Fox FE Grade
A.H. Fox Gun Company · Shotgun · Discontinued · 1914
Also known as: A.H. Fox FE Grade, Fox FE
Overview
The Fox FE Grade is a premium side-by-side boxlock double-barrel shotgun and the top-of-the-line offering from the A.H. Fox Gun Company of Philadelphia. Denoting the F Grade fitted with automatic ejectors, the FE Grade combined a robust hammerless boxlock action with exhibition-grade Circassian walnut, elaborate hand engraving with game-scene vignettes, and gold inlay. Chambered most commonly in 12 gauge with double triggers and 30-inch barrels, it represented the pinnacle of American double-gun craftsmanship in the early 20th century.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3400 g (119.9 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1194 mm (47.01") |
| Barrel Length | 762 mm (30.00") |
| Action Type | Break Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Internal Hammer |
| Trigger Type | Double Trigger |
| Magazine Capacity | 2 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Internal |
| Muzzle Velocity | 400 m/s (1312 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 2560 J (1888 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 40 m (44 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Smoothbore |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Walnut |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 12 Gauge · primary — also known as 12GA, 12 Bore
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Break Open Breech
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
- Features: Boxlock Action, Automatic Ejectors, Double Barrel Side By Side, Hand Engraved Receiver, Premium Grade Walnut Stock, Gold Inlay
Service history
Operators
- Theodore Roosevelt · adopted 1909
Production
Production years: 1914-1945
FE Grade guns were built from 1914 into the Savage Arms era; only a small number of these top-grade guns were made
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Designer: Ansley Herman Fox
Discontinued: 1945
Notes
The FE was the highest standard grade in the Fox line, priced far above the working-class B and C grades. A gauge-agnostic offering, it was also produced in 16 and 20 gauge. The most celebrated example was presented to President Theodore Roosevelt for his 1909-1910 African safari; it sold at auction in 2010 for $862,500.
Background
Ansley H. Fox billed his guns as 'The Finest Gun in the World.' The FE Grade earned that reputation when Theodore Roosevelt carried one on his post-presidency African safari, and a Fox FE later became the most expensive American shotgun ever sold at auction.