A.H. Fox Custom XE Upgrade 16ga – JIM DeMUNCK ENGRAVED, M/F, CASED

A.H. FOX STERLINGWORTH CUSTOM XE UPGRADE 16 GAUGE, CIRCA 1921, 28” BARRELS, JIM DEMUNCK ENGRAVING, SUPERB CUSTOM UPLAND FOX

There are upgraded Fox shotguns, and then there are guns like this—projects undertaken with enough talent, taste, and understanding of the original maker that the finished gun deserves to be considered on its own merits.

Built on an A.H. Fox Sterlingworth 16-gauge action dating to approximately 1921, this exceptional custom gun was transformed in the spirit of Fox’s celebrated XE Grade. Most importantly, the work is identified beneath the action: “CUSTOM XE – ENGRAVING J.R. DEMUNCK.” The extensive hand engraving was executed by noted American engraver Jim DeMunck, whose work can be found on some of the finest modern custom Fox shotguns.

DeMunck’s engraving extends well beyond the receiver. Deeply cut foliate scroll envelops the action, sculpted fences, top lever, top tang, forend iron, breech ends of the barrels, and even the muzzles. The engraving has tremendous depth and dimension, particularly around the fences, and creates a gun that is inspired by the great high-grade Foxes without attempting to masquerade as an untouched factory XE. The gold-filled “SAFE,” engraved controls, and beautifully detailed metalwork reward close inspection from virtually every angle.

The custom stock is equally impressive. Nicely figured walnut was shaped with graceful Fox proportions, finely fitted side panels and drop points, extensive well-executed checkering, and a beautifully finished butt terminating in an elaborate engraved and checkered steel buttplate. The splinter forend carries matching wood, checkering, and engraved iron.

One particularly thoughtful aspect of the conversion is the forend fastening system. Rather than unnecessarily altering the original Sterlingworth barrel lug arrangement, the builders retained the gun’s original pressure-fit forearm attachment. An XE-style latch assembly was then expertly inletted into the forend to complete the high-grade aesthetic. It is an elegant solution that preserves the original mechanical geometry while visually completing the XE treatment.

And beneath all of the artistry is a genuinely desirable 16-gauge field gun.

The 28” barrels have mirror-bright bores measuring .662” right and .660” left, with substantial minimum wall thicknesses of .040” and .035”. Choke constrictions measure .014” right and .030” left, a versatile Modified/Full combination. The original-style 2-1/2” chambers have been retained.

At 6 lbs. 7.5 oz., with the balance point approximately 1/4” forward of the hinge pin, this Fox has the weight and handling characteristics serious 16-gauge shooters look for. It is substantial enough to move smoothly through a bird yet light enough to carry all day.

A factory-original Fox XE occupies its own place in collecting history, and this gun is not represented as one. Instead, this is something different: a beautifully conceived custom Fox XE upgrade, built from one of America’s great shotgun actions and elevated through serious craftsmanship, exceptional engraving, and thoughtful execution.

For the sportsman who appreciates the handling qualities of a classic Fox but also wants the individuality of a hand-built custom gun, this 16 gauge offers a great deal to admire—and considerably more craftsmanship than could likely be recreated today for its asking price.